MESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENTS

VICE PRESIDENTS – ALYSHA SARGENT AND ANDREW MCQUILLAN

Hi All Welcome to the 2023 Yearbook.

What a year 2022 was. Events were certainly back with a bang. Our industry was in demand like never before. There was the obvious need from audiences to get back to enjoying events, but also a reminder of the value of events and the contribution they make to the economy. At all the events I was fortunate to be involved in, everyone I spoke to said the same thing - just how busy they all are. We have certainly bounced back, and we were able to meet the demands placed on us.

What I personally found to be one of the most challenging aspects of 2022 was the extremes in weather conditions. Over 40-degree heat in the summer, snow, ice and minus temperatures in the winter…..and let’s not forget about the rain! No matter how experienced you are in this industry there will always be something you are yet to encounter, and these weather conditions were certainly that for me last year.

Looking forward to 2023, we know the cost of living crisis will affect us all, but together as a community we will again face this head on and do everything we can to ensure this year is as successful as the previous one.

The support of NOEA continues to be invaluable for me and many others. With advice, guidance, up to date information, and a community of likeminded people to network with, I am so proud to be a part of it.

We look forward to seeing you at an event soon!

Alysha Sargent, Vice President

As we emerge from the pandemic into what feels somewhat normal operations for events, there are several key challenges presently being felt and on our horizons. I feel excited for the challenges ahead in my role as Vice President as there has never been a time where NOEA has been as important to the sector.

Event Suppliers in general are at the bottom of the pile and need the representation NOEA excels at both on local, national and international stages. We have excellent governmental relationships, substance press coverage on issues and the backing of all types of event organisers from across the United Kingdom and beyond.

2023 will see many challenges and we will tackle them head on together, fighting for everyone’s rights to being treated fairly with recognition of the suffering our sector has been through and remains to be going through in the present economic climate.

I would encourage any member who is going through tough times to reach out to the NOEA council. You will find us a very understanding ear and you may not even realise the range of options we may be aware of to support you.

Andrew McQuillan, Vice President