What first inspired you to pursue a career in events?
“I always knew I wanted to work in the entertainment sector. Originally, I planned to become an actress, but I quickly realised my strengths were behind the scenes.
“I have always loved attending large-scale outdoor events and the unique experiences they create, and I wanted to play a role in bringing those moments to life for others. I spent two years studying Event Management at college in Glasgow before joining Edinburgh Napier University's
Festival and Event Management programme in third year, where I developed the skills and knowledge needed to turn that passion into a career.”
What was your first role after graduating?
“I left university in 2011 after my third year as I got the opportunity to work as a Tour Coordinator for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Torch Relays. I applied for the role while still studying, despite only meeting some of the criteria. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so I decided to take a chance and put myself forward.
“It proved to be an incredible first step into the industry and a steep but rewarding learning curve. The relay travelled across the UK and Ireland over 70 days, and being part of an event on that scale reinforced my passion for delivering major public events and showed me the impact that well-executed experiences can have on communities.”
Tell us more about your career journey
“Following the relay, I worked on a variety of freelance projects, including major music festivals Glastonbury and T in the Park, before joining the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games team. There, I worked in an engagement role, helping the Games engage local authorities and core stakeholders.
“After the Games finished, I moved to a legacy role. Through the 'Casting On' initiative, I was responsible for connecting more than 2,500 Games cast members with further opportunities in the arts and volunteering sectors. I feel passionately that volunteering should be a two-way experience and throughout my career I've focused on creating programmes that support people's development and help them progress into future roles and opportunities.
“I then spent three years with arts organisation NVA, where I delivered the official launch event for Event Scotland's Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design. Following this, I joined V&A Dundee as Opening Events Coordinator. In the lead-up to the museum's opening, I engaged more than 12,000 people through events and community programmes and coordinated a visit by The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to mark the launch.
“After this role ended, I remained in the city and spent seven years with Dundee City Council, progressing from Events Officer to Principal Events Officer and ultimately leading the city's events team. One of my proudest achievements was helping bring BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend to Dundee. I was determined to secure the event for the city and used my industry network to make the right connections and showcase Dundee as a host destination. The festival welcomed around 82,000 attendees and became the largest event the city had ever hosted. Seeing the positive impact it had on Dundee's reputation, economy and community was incredibly rewarding.”
What are you doing in your current role?
“I recently joined Rogue City Productions as a Senior Events Manager, returning to the private sector after many years working in cultural organisations and local government. My role focuses on delivering large-scale public events across Scotland and the wider UK, including electronic music festivals, major outdoor gatherings and high-profile events such as Doof In The Park, Dundee.
“What I love most about working in festivals and live events is creating lasting memories for thousands of people. Seeing audiences enjoy an event you've worked on for months, or even years, is incredibly rewarding.”
What has been your biggest challenge?
“Events rarely go exactly to plan. No matter how much preparation goes into a project, unexpected challenges will arise.
“One of my earliest challenges was accidentally getting the Olympic Torch Relay convoy vehicles all locked inside a multi-storey car park overnight! I'd arranged the parking but got the opening times wrong, only to be woken by a frantic phone call the next morning. Cue a mad scramble to find someone who could unlock the car park and get the convoy back on the road in time! Thankfully, we managed it, but it's a lesson in checking the finer details that I've never forgotten.
“While it was a stressful lesson at the time, it reinforced the importance of paying attention to every detail and always having a contingency plan. Over the years, I've learned to stay calm under pressure, focus on solutions rather than problems, and adapt quickly when things don't go as expected. Those experiences have shaped my approach to both leadership and event management.”
Do you still maintain links with Edinburgh Napier University?
“Absolutely. I've returned several times to speak with students about careers in events and share insights from industry. It's always inspiring to meet the next generation of event professionals and hear about their ambitions and ideas.”
What advice would you give to current students and recent graduates?
“Say yes to opportunities, especially at the start of your career. That helped me quickly advance in my career.
“Get involved, take on new challenges and build experience wherever you can. Be reliable, work hard and don't be afraid to admit when you don't know something. The best professionals are always willing to learn and ask questions. And if you're planning a career in outdoor events, invest in a really good pair of boots!”
How did it feel to receive an Edinburgh Napier Alumni Award?
“I was genuinely humbled and delighted. Edinburgh Napier gave me such a strong foundation for my career, and it's been wonderful to reflect on that journey. Receiving this recognition from the university means a great deal to me.”