We caught up our Event Sales Manager Bryony Mitchison about her experience in the events management industry, read about her journey below:
When did you first start working in the Science Museum’s events team?
I started working at the Science Museum in June 2016 as an Event Sales Executive. I had previously worked at another venue in Holborn for 2 ½ years as a Special Events Coordinator and I was keen to work on larger, more complex events, so with over 12 galleries and spaces the Science Museum was the perfect step-up in my career!
What do you enjoy most about working in the events sector?
I love the fact that every event is entirely different. Each client has their own unique reason to host an event, and I really enjoy working with clients from their initial pipe-line ideas through to the full materialisation of the event.
What do you enjoy most about being part of the events team at the Science Museum?
The team I work with is fantastic and they make each day enjoyable. The build-up to opening the museum’s new two-level space Illuminate has been such a special experience over the last few years, as to have opened a brand new, dedicated event space as part of the team is such a brilliant achievement.
Talk us through a typical day on an event.
A typical day is split between client management and team management. I handle client enquiries from the initial call or email and show-rounds of our galleries and spaces, right through to the final stages of confirming sales and finalising contracts. I also manage a team of four event sales executives as well as budgeting and forecasting on behalf of the team, so balance and time-management is crucial in my role!
What is your favourite gallery for an event?
My favourite gallery is the Flight gallery; when it is set for a dinner or drinks reception complete with full production, the space is entirely transformed and looks incredible. I particularly enjoy when clients theme their events in line with the gallery’s artefacts too, as it really makes the space feel even more special.
What has been your favourite event to date?
My first event in Illuminate which took place this year will always stand out for me, as not only was it the first event that we hosted in the new space, but it was for a fantastic cause (the Royal Osteoporosis Society) and it was so amazing to see the space in action after so much hard work and anticipation.
What advice would you give someone looking to get into the events management industry?
My advice would be to get as much work experience as you can within the events industry! Not only does this give you the opportunity to gain a well-rounded understanding of how events are run, but also means you will be able to create contacts within the events industry that will prove extremely valuable as you progress through your career.
