I got into the events industry because I enjoy meeting people and having the opportunity to help them realise their event ambitions. To take an idea and see the end product being enjoyed is very rewarding.
I have worked here since 2008.
I was attracted to this particular role because it was a complete change from what I’d done previously. The university has a great portfolio of event venues, from the classic to the ultra modern; it’s this diverse range of choice that I’m so proud to show off to our clients.
Not many people know that I’ve had some fairly different jobs, from the cuddly mascot bear at a theme park to a chef on an oil platform in the middle of the sea. Doing these random jobs has given me so much pleasure and taught me a lot about myself.
My worst experience at an event was organising several under-18 foam parties at the leisure centre I managed. Tears, tantrums, heavy petting and vodka, and that was just the staff. Never again.
If there’s one thing I’ve learnt it’s never assume, always communicate to the point of excess.
The best event I’ve been involved in was in May 2012. The Queen came to the university to open the new £48m forum building. It was a truly amazing experience. Working closely with so many different organisations in the months leading up to her visit was frantic but ultimately very rewarding when the day finally came.
If I could do it all over again I would remember to enjoy it, to stand back and see what we have achieved.
The one thing I can’t stand is faffing - the inability to make a decision without the need for a meeting or at least a 20-minute discussion.
Outside of work I spend my time with my family, walking, catching up with friends and mowing. If I don’t get a ride on a lawnmower by the end of the year I’ll be devastated.
If money were no object I would follow the sun around the world avoiding winters. South Africa, the Caribbean, Australia… I would never need a coat again.
The one event I will never miss is the World Cup. I’m a big sports fan and love all major sport tournaments.
The next 12 months will be a very busy and exciting time at Event Exeter, giving us the chance to show that academic venues are hugely competitive in the conference and event industry.
If I could switch places with anyone else in the industry it would be Seb Coe. The energy, passion and enthusiasm he showed for the 2012 London Olympics was incredible. To have been involved in something so memorable would be a real honour.
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