Continuing our employee spotlight series with our Project Manager, Kate Stephenson.
How long have you worked at Event Management Direct?
Five years years in June 2023
What do you do at Event Management Direct and in what circumstances would I come to you for something?
I am a Project Manager and Business Development Manager, overseeing the projects and events programme as well as engaging with new and existing clients.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about working in events?
That its glamorous! People who are not in the industry always think events are glamorous and full of celebs and schmoozing! There can be an element of that, but the majority of the time it’s long hours constantly on your feet, and always with a smile! My biggest advice for any new event manager is to invest in a good pair of flat shoes! It’s a great profession in which every day is different, and you do get to meet some really interesting people but its not always sequins and champagne!
What led you to this career?
I did a degree in Sceneography, which is the art of theatre craft – lighting, sound, set design, scenic art, props etc and I did work in professional theatre for a while. The skills learned in theatre equipped me for my career in events. My first role in events was at a venue in Leeds as their Events Manager and the rest, as they say is history!
What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
Most weekends we go on a walk around one of the many reservoirs on our doorstep. More often than not, we pack up a bacon roll and a flask of hot chocolate and have a breakfast picnic by the water or I can be found in a family farm or a soft play with my little boy.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
For years I wanted to be a vet as I have a huge love and interest in animals. My very young self wanted to run a ‘cat hotel’ aka a cattery! I fear however at the time I thought I’d get to keep all the cats. Then I thought about following in my Mums footsteps and being a teacher, which was my intention when I applied for art school after A Levels. Then all attention turned to the Police Force… not quite sure how I ended up in events, but I’m glad I did.
What’s the weirdest food you’ve ever eaten?
When I was on my gap year, I travelled the world and ended up in some amazing places. I went with a friend who had never been abroad prior to our travels, and so she had a wonderful outlook of wanting to try everything without inhibitions. As part of our adventure, I inevitably ate some unusual cuisine! I consumed honey roasted crickets in Thailand, miniature bananas in Bali, and dug out and ate a sand eel in Australia.
What’s the top destination on your must-visit list?
India. I’d love to go to India and experience the assault on the senses. I remember my first time in Bangkok in Thailand and I loved every second– the colours, the noise, the smells, the food – all so magical and different. I expect India would be similar and totally awesome in the truest sense of the word.
What’s your favourite TV show—the one you’re always watching on repeat?
Silent Witness. I mean, what’s not to love about a group of Forensic Pathologists solving crimes and saving lives? They’re like a cross between your local GP and Batman.
If you could only eat one item for every meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Thai food from a Thai chef - its just delicious and so hard to replicate at home!
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