I have worked here since the beginning of December 2010 so still very new in the role. However, I’ve worked in the industry for many more years than this both on the client and agency side of the events fence.
I was attracted to this particular role because after almost four happy years working with some of the biggest kids properties at Nickelodeon, I’d been contemplating moving back to the world of ‘grown up’ events again. During that time, I met some of the Rouge team and found them really professional and fun to work with. When I saw this role, which offered me a fresh, new challenge, I simply had to apply and was fortunate enough to be offered the job.
Not many people know that I’m a trained rescue diver and a qualified life coach.
My worst experience at an event was taking 1,000 radio station listeners on a weekend cruise to Jersey hosted by two of the station’s biggest DJs. The guests drank the terminal dry in Portsmouth before the ferry set sail for a nighttime crossing in a force ten gale. It was very messy (fortunately I wasn’t seasick, but many were) and one of the guests ended up being handcuffed to the car deck because of his antics. Despite this, when we arrived back all the guests said they’d had a great time so it taught me never to assume the worst. Looking back now, it was hilarious.
If there’s one thing I’ve learnt it’s to always keep a sense of humour even when the going gets tough, it really helps keep me sane. Also, never being afraid to ask if I don’t know something. The event industry has grown so much over the years and as a result is a constantly evolving market sector, offering new and innovative ways of doing things – it’s what I love about the industry.
The best event I’ve been involved in was BSquareB in Berkeley Square for Vince Power while I was at Entertee. It was a huge challenge re-inventing this prestigious event and giving it a new and exciting feel with celebrity chefs preparing the food and James Brown performing in one of his last live gigs. I also got to work with some brilliant people and brilliant suppliers who delivered above and beyond the call of duty.
If I could do it all over again I would do the same I think – except with the knowledge and experience I’ve gained over the years. I’ve had a fantastic time, have done some amazing things both professionally and personally and have met and worked with some brilliant people. I couldn’t ask for more than that.
The one thing I can’t stand is rudeness. We live in a very fast-paced and often stressful world, especially in the event industry. However, personally I think there’s no excuse for people being rude to me or vice versa. My philosophy is to treat others as I’d like to be treated myself.
Outside of work I spend my time cycling in the Hertfordshire countryside, skiing and scuba diving (holidays permitting).
If money were no object I’d invent something which guaranteed that it never rained in the summer months in the UK.
The one event I will never miss birthdays for my friends and family – especially my nieces and nephews.
The next 12 months will be really exciting. I’m working at a fantastic agency which has some brilliant projects in the pipeline and is full of really talented, creative and focused individuals.
If I could switch places with anyone else in the industry it would be Michael Eavis – for his inspiration and vision.
If I ruled the event industry ideally I’d reduce/streamline the whole red tape/paperwork side of planning events for all. I know it’s important, but I think there could be a better balance between admin and creativity for everyone.