We are very excited to announce that our ever growing team has recruited a new Head of Events, Lauren Murtagh. Lauren brings a strong background of knowledge of international events and conferences to the Story team, and is looking forward to getting the tube to events, rather than a 10 hour flight!
We sat down with our newest member so that we (and you) can get to know her a bit better…
When did you decide you wanted to work in the events industry?
After trialling the world of Films & TV production and then acting, I quickly realised that my skill set fell into the events world when I was 24. It clicked one day that events was an area I hadn’t tried but matched everything I enjoyed. I found my way into it and have never looked back!
What is your favourite event you have ever worked on?
Launching a new event in Atlanta in 2016. It came with huge expectations for both the event and myself so there was quite a bit of pressure to succeed. The event was hard work and threw a number of hurdles and curveballs at us, but it was a huge success for a launch and the whole team came out the other side with smiles and great memories, which became pretty hard to beat!
Who’s your biggest inspiration?
My mum. She was stronger, funnier, kinder and more courageous than anyone I have ever known. She taught my sisters and I that if you worked hard and did your best you could achieve anything, but that it was also ok to fail every now and then. “Keep your chin up, work hard and have fun while you’re doing it – you’ll get there in the end!”
What’s your favourite thing about working for Story so far?
The Story family, without a doubt. I have wanted to work for Story for a long time, so it’s a great personal achievement to be part of the team now and especially heading up the ops team. From my first interview with Story I felt so welcomed and since officially joining the team in August, I immediately like part of the family. It’s a lovely place to be!
What’s your dream venue you would love to work with?
The Natural History Museum
What is your top tip for surviving the events industry?
Learn how to sleep anywhere at any time! I’ve now got the ability to sleep on trains, planes and automobiles at the drop of a hat, which has only come from working in events!
What is your proudest event moment?
I have a couple that really stand out. My very first solo event, a 3 day conference that I ran at the Singapore Expo, giving me my first real taste of all of the logistics for an international event and also how to really run things solo! Recently though it’s been seeing my team – the one I’ve just left and the ops team at Story, running their own events after putting in so much hard work, time and care into what they’re doing to produce fantastic events! It’s a proud moment to see your team progress and deliver.
Your favourite thing to do outside of work?
Travel with friends and explore new and hidden places around the world.
We love seeing our team expand and can’t wait for all the exciting things to come at the Story / VSL HQ.
Whilst you are here, why not check out what events we run and how we can help you with your next event https://www.storyevents.co.uk/stories-we-tell/
