The event industry news podcast is sponsored by Present Communications. Present provides broadcast-quality live, hybrid and virtual event production trusted by organisations where reliability really matters — from corporate town halls and conferences to high-profile live streams. They design and deliver fully resilient systems that work first time.

In this episode James Dixon interviews Ross Wheeler, Business Director and Head of Live at Imagination, about his unusual journey from training as a ballet dancer to leading global live event production. Ross explains how theatrical thinking informs creative event design, the importance of time and rehearsal for impactful experiences, and how client collaboration and trusted teams deliver ambitious projects for brands like Guinness and Land Rover.

Ross also discusses talent development, the balance between creative instincts and formal qualifications, and Imagination’s worldwide work. Find out more at imagination.com.

This episode of the Event Industry News Podcast is sponsored by Present Communications. Present provides broadcast-quality live, hybrid and virtual event production, trusted by organisations where reliability really matters. From corporate town halls and conferences to high-profile live streams, they design and deliver fully resilient systems that work first time.

To keep up to date with all the news, subscribe for free here. If you would like to take part in a podcast, then please complete our submission form.

Maria O'Dea from The Event School London explains the school's new ATHE level 4–7 regulated event management diplomas, created to tackle UK industry recruitment shortages by offering a structured, vocational route into events.

The episode covers the school's hands-on, industry-led teaching, flexible course options from short masterclasses to degree alternatives, and how it prepares students and career changers for real-world challenges including AI, corporate events and weddings.

This episode of the Event Industry News Podcast is sponsored by Present Communications. Present provides broadcast-quality live, hybrid and virtual event production, trusted by organisations where reliability really matters. From corporate town halls and conferences to high-profile live streams, they design and deliver fully resilient systems that work first time.

To keep up to date with all the news, subscribe for free here. If you would like to take part in a podcast, then please complete our submission form.

James Dickson sits down with Area General Manager Nicola Betley to celebrate Hilton Birmingham Metropole’s 50th anniversary, exploring the hotel’s role at the heart of the UK events industry, long-serving team members, and evolving guest and event experiences.

They discuss partnerships, new ideas like glamping and leisure facilities, upcoming anniversary events, and how the venue plans long-term to stay relevant for future conferences and visitors.

This episode of the Event Industry News Podcast is sponsored by Present Communications. Present provides broadcast-quality live, hybrid and virtual event production, trusted by organisations where reliability really matters. From corporate town halls and conferences to high-profile live streams, they design and deliver fully resilient systems that work first time.

To keep up to date with all the news, subscribe for free here. If you would like to take part in a podcast, then please complete our submission form.