What do you do and how long have you been in your current role?

I’m the sales and conference manager at Bristol venue Colston Hall and have worked there for two years. I joined the venue as it was undergoing a complete redevelopment creating a whole new range of meeting and conference spaces. My role is predominantly focused around developing and refining the services and facilities offered at the venue to put it on the map for international event organisers.

Where was your first job? What was the most important thing you learnt there?

My first job in the industry was as an events manager for a Grade I-listed country house. It was a massive learning curve for me having to handle the operational and logistical co-ordinations behind events. I learnt so many invaluable skills there, which was extremely challenging at the time but it was a great foundation for me to build my career on. I would say that working across such a variety of different events has taught me to never be surprised.

How did you get from there to where you are now?

I have always believed in working hard and striving to learn as much as you can. When I started in the industry I made sure I got involved at every opportunity and talked to as many industry professionals as I could.

Looking back, did you expect your career path to take the course it has?

I definitely never expected to be heading the entire events department for such an iconic venue, nor looking back did I expect to have ever worked in Bristol Zoo hosting lots of unusual events – especially as I’m not particularly keen on animals. However, I have always known that I wanted to be client-facing and working in a creative and challenging industry.

Would you do anything differently?

No absolutely not, I believe that everything happens for a reason and all experiences, the good and the bad, have taken me to where I am now. My first job in the events industry was definitely a baptism of fire but I know it was possibly the best hands-on experience I could get. It equipped me with the knowledge and confidence to handle anything.   

Who has inspired you along the way?

I’ve met so many inspirational people, but I would say that Tracey, a senior events manager I used to work with, has probably shaped my career more than anyone else. She always pushed for perfection and for us to go that extra mile – qualities that I always put into every event I work on.

Have you ever had a job interview that went particularly well or spectacularly wrong?

I’ve obviously had interviews where I have wished I could have answered differently, but luckily I don’t have any interviews that haunt me. After an interview I try not to dwell or fret about what is out of my control, as long as you know you were thoroughly prepared and gave 100% the rest is out of your hands. 

Is there a piece of career advice you’ve ever been told that has stuck with you?

This quote from Albert Einstein: “Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.” It has always stuck with me throughout my career.

What career advice would you give to your 21-year-old self?

Be confident in yourself. Don’t be afraid to voice your opinions and make yourself heard, but also listen and absorb as much from your superiors as you can.

How do you wind down and relax after a hectic day?

I like to cook a nice meal in good company of close friends or family, or if I’m feeling particularly energetic I’ll join in an exercise class at my local gym – it’s a great way to de-stress.

Want to share your career story with us as part of the Women in Events campaign? Email associate editor Rachel Bull to feature in a future How I Got Here.

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