Can you share a bit about your background and where you're from?

Sure, I've been working in media for over 30 years. I started out as an advertising executive at ASDA, a supermarket chain, with a head office based in Leeds, working on TV, radio, and press campaigns - it was great fun. Later, in the early nineties, I moved to a small independent publishing business, and by my early thirties became its MD. Following the sale of the business, I was persuaded to make the switch to exhibitions and spent over twenty years organising tradeshows for the fashion and clothing industries, organising events all over the world from the Birmingham NEC and the Saatchi Gallery in London to Shanghai, New York, and Los Angeles. It's been quite the journey!

Can you give us some insight into your current role?

I joined the CloserStill Media team in October as the Managing Director for UKi, a business they had recently acquired. Though it's only been seven months, I already feel at home. The unique aspect of this role is maintaining the independence of UKi, which has thrived for over 30 years, while leveraging expertise where appropriate from CloserStill Media. It's not about rigid integration but allowing the business to breathe and grow within its new home.

In your day-to-day work, what aspects of your role do you find most fulfilling or enjoyable?

No two days are the same at UKi, in the early months it's been crucial for me to understand team dynamics and sector intricacies while gaining insight into the industries we serve. The teams at UKi have been incredibly welcoming, eager to exchange knowledge and experiences, embrace change, and progress collectively. We have numerous exciting opportunities to swiftly enhance our events, improve visitor experience, and boost overall business efficiency. Witnessing the positive impact on the business and the high level of engagement from the team has been the most fulfilling.

How has it been integrating into CloserStill?

Ahead of joining the group Gareth and I discussed his vision for CloserStill Media group and how the acquisition of UKi aligned with it. The integration process so far has been pretty light touch, focussing on finance, systems, and other synergies, while UKi remains true to its DNA and the qualities that have contributed to its success.

Can you talk a little bit about how you would describe the team culture between the two organisations?

I believe that both organisations recognise that people are at the core of any successful company. I find that the teams at UKi are highly self-sufficient, and the focus has been on fostering greater collaboration and reaping the benefits of genuine teamwork. Both organisations are highly driven and thrive in fast-paced environments.

Beyond your role at UKi, what are some of your interests or hobbies outside of work that you're passionate about?

I've always had a love for travel and have visited and lived in many countries for work. Additionally, I try to explore a new destination each year. I've also taken on physical challenges, including climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya, and Toubkal in Morocco, all while raising funds for charities close to my heart. In recent years, I've enjoyed serving as a mentor to women in business, finding inspiration in their entrepreneurial spirit.