I am a dynamic Account Director and strategic events professional with over seven years of experience creating transformative experiences for global brands and prestigious institutions. Currently serving as Account Director at Smyle, I bring a unique blend of creative vision, operational excellence, and commercial acumen to every project I lead.
My career trajectory showcases my ability to drive results at scale. Most recently, I spent two years as Account Director at emc3, a certified B Corp and the world's leading events agency. There, I specialised in strategic storytelling and creative event design, working with industry giants including Google, Twilio, LinkedIn, Miro, and Drift. My strategic approach begins with alignment workshops, diving deep into client needs before crafting experiences that inspire conversations, create lasting memories, and transform business connections.
Prior to emc3, I held a pivotal role as Senior Account Manager at HEART Productions, where I managed the agency's most important client relationships. My portfolio included leading account management for Netflix's global premieres of major series including "The Gray Man," "School for Good and Evil," and "The Sandman." I also spearheaded Visa's FIFA Women's Euros rebrand and orchestrated the Greater London Authority's involvement in the tournament, producing innovative city activation phonebooths at London's busiest stations.
My most significant achievement came during my tenure as Special Event Manager at the Natural History Museum, where I built an extensive profit-driven events portfolio generating £1.1 million in annual revenue. My innovative programming included the wildly popular "Dino Snores" series, Crime Scene Live experiences, and high-profile membership lectures featuring speakers like Kate Winslet, David Yarrow, and Ben Garrod. I pioneered the museum's first-ever private celebrity sleepover experience, creating an entirely new revenue stream for corporate and private events.
My strategic vision extends beyond individual events to organizational transformation. At the Natural History Museum, I collaborated with Development and Communications teams to introduce a new tiered approach to membership and philanthropy events. Recognizing the digital shift accelerated by the pandemic, I created the museum's Digital Membership programme, launching an online lecture series that proved so successful it led to the creation of an International Digital Membership tier.
My operational expertise is equally impressive. I routinely manage teams of over 100 staff and crew, overseeing everything from initial hiring and contracting to flawless execution on event nights. My approach to project management combines strict timelines with creative flexibility, ensuring both financial objectives and creative vision are achieved. I have consistently demonstrated my ability to prepare winning tenders, proposals, and contracts while maintaining seamless client onboarding processes.
My early career at the London Borough of Waltham Forest showcased my versatility and business development skills. As Sales and Events Executive, I managed a portfolio of seven Grade II listed buildings, generating over £1.5 million in revenue. My highlight achievements included producing the Borough of Culture Launch event and forging key relationships with acclaimed choreographer Sir Matthew Bourne and his ballet company.
Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated that I understand the power of every moment, crafting experiences that resonate long after the event concludes and building lasting partnerships that drive continued success for my clients and organisations.
What main reason would you give to urge our community to submit an entry for these awards?
Winning or being nominated for awards significantly elevates your professional profile within the media and entertainment industry. These awards are noticed by industry decision-makers, leading to better job opportunities, increased credibility, and the ability to command higher rates or salaries. The networking opportunities at these award ceremonies alone can be career-changing, connecting you with event professionals, executives, and fellow suppliers who can open doors to exclusive doors to opportunities, or collaborative projects. Plus, award recognition gives you leverage when pitching events, negotiating contracts, or applying for positions - it's tangible proof of your excellence in a competitive field.
What you are most excited to see in a submission?
I'd be most excited to see:
Investigative Depth with Industry Impact - Submissions that go beyond surface-level coverage to uncover meaningful stories about how the event landscape is evolving. This could be exposing problems in theatrical distribution, revealing innovative marketing strategies, or investigating how streaming is reshaping event experiences.
Compelling Stories - Pieces that connect the business side of events with real people - whether it's a small-town supplier fighting to stay relevant, audiences discovering venues in unexpected places, or industry professionals navigating major industry shifts.
Data-Driven Insights - Submissions that use solid research and analysis to reveal trends, backed by credible sources and presented in accessible ways that help readers understand complex industry dynamics.
Visual Storytelling Excellence - For multimedia submissions, creative use of video, photography, or interactive elements that enhance rather than distract from the core story.
Connect with Meg!
