New direction for my blog - Working in Events.

I've been very lucky in that I have been working in events pretty much full time since graduating University in 2012. It's not something I ever thought of doing but has very quickly became a passion of mine and an industry I hope I can build a career in. In addition to this I also enjoy attending all sorts of events, sometimes to learn more about the industry and sometimes just for fun!

The first large event I was involved in was the 2014 Commonwealth Games in my home town of Glasgow and ever since then working in events, particularly sport, has been my life. I have been lucky enough to work on motorsport events in Barbados, national and international cycling events and now for the 2015 Rugby World Cup. I've worked in a variety of departments including Venue Management, Volunteer Management, Accommodation and Accreditation, but ultimately when it comes down to it you get involved wherever you are required, taking on whatever job necessary.

It's in no way a stable career, going from short contract to short contract but what it does give you is the chance to meet people from all over the world and if you're lucky the chance to travel to some amazing places. I currently have former colleagues in Baku Azerbaijan, Australia, Switzerland, Doha and Dubai to name a few!


It's a career that will see you being involved in everything, from the glamour of opening ceremony's to the less glamorous clear up after the event and the tedious, draining planning meetings months before it begins. I don't think a lot of people realise  the amount of hard work and dedication that goes into putting on a large event, I have literally witnessed blood sweat and tears to make sure an event goes ahead. It can be a tough job - long days, stressful situations and very little thanks. Having said that, I find working on an event the most thrilling experience and the pride you feel when it finally goes ahead is something that can't be described.

Stunt driver Terry Grant's 2014 World Record Attempt

I guess I am writing this blog for anyone who is thinking of going into events of any kind, even if it's only one - you won't regret it. Sure it's a big risk, especially if it's a short contract (which they usually are) but the experience you'll have, the people you'll meet and the memories you will make are worth more than any boring 9-5! Volunteering is also another amazing way to get involved for a shorter period of time, which means you can still experience working on an event without having to give up your current job/studies. There are many different departments in most large events - from Venue Management to Logistics to Marketing to Security and many many more. Events tend to advertise positions on their websites so keep an eye out for any openings and of course follow them on social media.

After a lot of thought about the direction of my blog I have decided to write more about my experiences on events as this is where I have the most experience and hope to continue my journey - so if you have any questions or anything you'd like to hear please let me know and I'll try my best to cover it. Thanks for reading and hopefully I will have some exciting updates very soon.