I got into the event industry because I get a real sense of satisfaction and a kick out of people experiencing what I’ve created. You only really get to see the true reaction to your work with a live audience.
I have worked here since before the internet existed, although I’m still yet to convince our apprentices that at one point there was no internet.
I was attracted to this particular role because it provided me with the chance to create without boundaries. I was given a great opportunity so grabbed it and never looked back.
Not many people know that I began working in the industry from the age of 14, from which point I knew this was what I wanted to do.
The best event I’ve been involved in was Sainsbury’s Colleague Conference every time, just for seeing 5,000 people's reaction to all the hours of work you have put in day after night to create a completely engaging and worthwhile experience.
If I could do it all over again I would photograph the results of every project I created, as there are too many to remember now.
The one thing I can’t stand is people who don’t have a love of what they do. Having a real passion for what you do is what drives you to create your very best work, that’s how it is for me.
Outside of work I spend my time creating stuff with my kids, who are now beginning to challenge me more than some of my clients, and running – it’s when I get my best ideas.
If money were no object I would miss the feeling of achievement when people wonder how you achieved what you did with what you were given to do it. I like a challenge.
If I could switch places with anyone else in the industry it would be Danny Boyle to create the 2012 Olympics opening ceremony. Hard work and much pressure no doubt, but worth it.
If I ruled the event industry I would ban poorly-produced briefs. You get out what you put in, so give a little more and you’ll get a lot more back in return.
Want to be featured in a future My Event World? Email news editor Samantha Edwards for further details.
For more in-depth and print-only features, showcases and interviews with world-leading brands, don't miss the next issue of Event magazine by