SIMON BARLOW LEADS THE TEAM!
Following the departure of George Foden in February, Simon Barlow has taken the reins as Acting Head of Events here at Events & Hospitality QM and is driving the team forward with his support to ensure we operate 'business as usual' during this interim period.
THURSDAY 28 MAY 2015
Following the departure of George Foden in February, Simon Barlow has taken the reins as Acting Head of Events here at Events & Hospitality QM and is driving the team forward with his support to ensure we operate 'business as usual' during this interim period.
With 17 years experience at QMUL under his belt, Simon has vast knowledge of the intricacies of the events and marketing operation within the academic venues sector!
HOW IT ALL BEGAN...BACK IN 1998!
Whilst a student here at Queen Mary studying Geography, Simon began his career in 1998 in the Conference Office (now known as the Sales team) as a Conference Assistant working throughout each summer to support events on campus. Following the completion of his degree, a full time position had became available within the Conference Office for which he applied for and spent an additional 8 years as Conference Coordinator.
MOVING UP THE QMUL CAREER LADDER!
Ever in search of a challenge, Simon applied for and was successfully appointed into a position within the Marketing and Communications team and transferred sections to take up the new role in January 2009. A very keen marketer, he was then quickly promoted from Marketing Assistant to Marketing and Communications Executive, the post he currently occupies in addition to his Acting Head of Events role. The experience of the operational/sales side and the marketing side combined gives Simon a great understanding of both sides of the coin.
TO THE OLYMPICS AND BEYOND!
Simon is also a dedicated volunteer! His passion began back in 2012 when he was successfully appointed as a Gamesmaker, driving important figure heads for the 2012 Games to each of the different Olympic venues. Having immensely enjoyed this experience, it spurred him on to participate in many other volunteering projects up and down the country, including his role at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games in 2014! Every weekend Simon is helping out somewhere or other! So next time you attend a public event - keep an eye out! Simon is sure to be there!
LIFE AS A LEADER!
When George Foden departed, Simon decided to put himself forward to take the lead for the Sales, Events & Marketing team as 'Acting Head of Events' for an interim period. Following an internal reorganisation and with the summer looming, this was the most appropriate decision based on Simon's skills, knowledge and disposition. He is now confidently leading the team and sharing his knowledge gained over the past 17 years to ensure that our operation is not affected by the internal complications. His aim is to continue to develop our offer and products to allow us to continue to grow and provide a great value service to all of our clients and guests.