My Event World - Tom King

Tom King, Royal Albert Hall deputy head of show department, on the Eurovision Song Contest and telling off celebrities.

Royal Albert Hall deputy head of show department Tom King
Royal Albert Hall deputy head of show department Tom King

I got into the events industry because... I love the buzz and energy of a fast-paced job, co-ordinating amazing events and being at the centre of all the action.

I have worked here since... July 2006

I was attracted to this particular role because... The is the most special of venues and the vacancy was like a dream job opportunity for me.

Not many people know that... I'm fluent in French and German.

My worst experience at an event was... Having to tell off a seriously famous celebrity and feel very much the nerd.

If there is one thing I've learnt it's... Make your own decisions and stand your ground, but be as pleasant as possible along the way.

The best event I've been involved in was... Swarovski Fashion Rocks for the Prince's Trust 2007. A hugely complex but fabulous show. Such hard work, but so much fun.

If I could do it all over again I would... Probably deal with some work crisis situations a little better, and try not to lose my cool.

The one thing I can't stand is... People not admitting their own mistakes.

Outside of work I spend my time... Having as much fun as possible with friends and family.

If money were no object I would... Build or buy my own venue (as well as many other things).

The one event I never like to miss is... The Eurovision Song Contest – especially the voting.

The recession has meant that... We have all had to up our game and offer the best service we possibly can to retain loyalty and attract repeat business.

The next 12 months will be... Exciting, as always at the Albert Hall. We have a fantastically varied line-up of shows.

If I could switch places with anyone else in the industry it would be... Someone who puts on enormous global events, perhaps the event manager for the London 2012 opening ceremony.

If I ruled the event industry I would... Completely abuse the power that comes with it.

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