I have worked here since 2009 on various exhibitions.
I was attracted to this particular role because it is the sector that I have fallen in love with, and I do think I have had the most success in, having run Confex, launched National Venue Show and Square Meal Venues & Events.
Not many people know that I ran a marathon last year.
My worst experience at an event was on the first year of the National Venue Show. It was 9/11. It was truly the most staggering and horrific day in my working life. In a bizarre way it certainly brought the exhibitors together on that day, there was so much shock and emotion, it made everyone there realise that life was important and precious.
The best event I’ve been involved in was Square Meal Venues & Events, from the point of view of success, however from the point of view of personal success and working with fantastic colleagues, working with Steve Richards and Georgie Clapton Hall was just fantastic.
If I could do it all over again I would do it all exactly the same way.
The one thing I can’t stand is jargon, overselling and not listening, all major traits and failings of a number of people and organisations in this industry.
Outside of work I spend my time being a mum of two teenagers and dog.
If money was no object I would like to advise young talent in the exhibitions industry.
The recession has meant that the stronger get stronger and the weaker fall.
The next 12 months will be very exciting watching the UK Venue Show get stronger and stronger and become a key exhibition within the events calendar.
If I could switch places with anyone else in the industry I would like to take parts of a few people, but am happy to just be me and know that you are never too old or in an industry too long to keep listening and learning.
If I ruled the event industry I would launch exhibitions only with very senior industry players, rather than junior staff. I would set up schemes for young talent and I would create more cross communication within the industry.