I got into the event industry because 30 years ago I finished university with a business degree and an idea that I would like to work in a dynamic environment – it was very rare to have a business degree in the event industry. I originally considered operating a transport company and now I get to do that and so much more.
I have worked here since it started. I own the company and it's been creating successful events for 30 years.
I was attracted to this particular role because of its challenges and diversity. It started with the organisation of a travelling circus and there were five of us in the company, so we did everything. Today we are a larger, more diverse combined business with more than 40 staff and it’s still fun.
Not many people know that I can also drive HGV’s and specialist vehicles, and erect tents.
My worst experience at an event was a Highland cow charging the Gurkhas at the Edinburgh Tattoo. The Gurkhas ran for cover – luckily it was just the rehearsal. Everyone, including Heather the cow, was fine. Unsurprisingly, I have not worked with cloven hooves since.
If there’s one thing I’ve learnt it’s women need to be more confident about their abilities.
The best event I’ve been involved was Cirque de Celebrité for Sky TV. My company creates and organises shows and each location is an individual event, but this television series raised the profile of circuses, which I am particularly interested in, and reached a huge audience. It wasn’t the first time we had worked in the TV sector, but on this occasion our involvement covered all areas and the result, I considered, was a job well done.
If I could do it all over again I would change a lot of things. Sometimes the opportunity to put lessons learnt into practise doesn’t arise, and though I have no regrets, in retrospect, it would be fun to have the chance to do some things differently.
One thing I can’t stand is a flat tyre.
Outside of work I spend my time working. I am always looking for new ventures or touching base with current tours.
If money were no object I'd become a philanthropist.
The one thing I can’t do my job without is the support of my team. They are capable and responsible and strive to make every event the best.
If I could switch places with anyone else in the industry it would be – I wouldn't switch places with anyone else in the industry.
If I ruled the event industry politeness and cooperation would be a contractual duty.
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