A Memorable Journey: Farewell to a Remarkable Year at Outsourced Events

I joined Outsourced Events in June 2023 for a year-long placement to gain valuable industry experience before returning to my final year of studying Marketing and Public Relations at Leeds Beckett University. My course covers all the fundamentals of both industries, with a key focus so far on reputation management, customer satisfaction and retention, and digital marketing.

My time at Outsourced Events (OE) has provided the perfect opportunity to put this academic learning into practice. Working with various clients on tasks such as sourcing trade show entertainment, finding venues, and liaising with customers through joining instructions has strengthened my understanding of the intricacies of keeping customers satisfied.

Two of the most significant projects I have been involved in during my time at OE are SentinelOne’s Paladin Get Together and managing the SPEX for BSGE’s Annual Scientific Conference. My role in these projects enabled me to explore new elements of event planning and broaden my skills. One of my goals for this placement was to work on a project from the initial brief to the post-event review. In doing this, I learnt the processes and technical elements involved in the latter stages of projects such as creating joining instructions, schedules and crisis management plans. Having achieved this goal, I feel that I have improved my understanding of how logistics change across an event's lifespan.

I have found that events are fast-paced and ever-changing especially when I was working on multiple events simultaneously. Initially, this is something I struggled with, as I had no significant prior experience. I remember worrying that the quality of my work wouldn’t be consistent or that the products I was sourcing wouldn’t meet expectations. However, my team helped me overcome these challenges by boosting my confidence which enabled me to navigate challenges effectively. I am grateful for the support of the amazing Admin team, who helped me learn the ins and outs of the events industry and helped me adapt to a professional working environment. They provided me with continuous support and encouragement even after I left the department.

Looking back on my year, I have so many highlights, from small moments in the office to our team-building retreat in January. In addition, being given the opportunity to visit new countries while working onsite has been an unexpected bonus. These travels have given me the chance to connect with the team outside of a work environment, through stories, laughter and catch-ups. This has meant my colleagues have become great friends. Seeing the projects I’ve been part of come to life at events is a very rewarding feeling. I have loved my time at Outsourced Events and am sad to have reached the end. I am grateful to have been part of the Outsourced Events family, experiencing new things, countries, roles, and both professional and leisurely experiences.

If I were to offer any advice to other students considering a year in the industry, I would encourage them to put themselves out there and apply for roles that spark excitement, regardless of their experience level. Once you secure a role, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Everyone around you was once a new starter and understands your position. Don’t hesitate to seek advice and direction.

What’s next? I will be heading back to university to complete my final year of studies at the end of summer, with the goal of finding work nearby to continue gaining experience in support of my degree. After I graduate, I am unsure of my next move, but I hope to travel. Reflecting on my year in industry, I feel it has been instrumental in starting my career. Working at Outsourced Events has helped me refine a range of skills and competencies that I will use throughout my career. Thank you to the team for a wonderful year of learning from some amazing industry experts.