At Newable, our committed Events Team is at the heart of planning and implementing a diverse range of events. Annually, they manage over 250 events, providing ambitious entrepreneurs with opportunities to learn new skills and connect with peers, both in the UK and in international markets.
The team is thorough in their planning and execution of events that enable other businesses to thrive. From workshops and webinars to conferences and networking sessions, the Newable Events Team guarantees flawless organisation, captivating content, and unforgettable experiences for attendees.
Jenny Olivey, our Marketing and Events Producer, is a vital member of the Events and Live Marketing Team here at Newable. Jenny ensures that our events are seamlessly executed and leave a lasting impact on our attendees. From coordinating engaging workshops to orchestrating memorable conferences, Jenny’s expertise contributes significantly to the success of our events.
Jenny also plays an integral role in our Mental Health and Women in the Workplace Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). These ERGs are designed to cultivate a supportive and inclusive environment for employees who share similar characteristics, backgrounds, or interests.
We had the opportunity to ask Jenny few questions about herself and her role here at Newable, her top tips for seamless event planning and how she is helping foster a culture of support within Newable.
Please tell us a little about your background and experience.
I began my career in sales and advertising, gaining valuable insights into client interactions and marketing strategies. However, my journey in events started during my seven-years as an EMEA Marketing Specialist. In this role, I organised industry events, trade shows, conferences, and prestigious award ceremonies. My favourite aspect of the job was the creative process. Starting from a blank canvas, I designed how exhibition spaces would be utilised helping balancing aesthetics and logistics.
Following this, I transitioned to venue management and marketing at Solent University, where I engaged with corporate clients, organised internal events, and contributed to community initiatives. And now, I’m thrilled to be part of the team at Newable helping deliver a wide variety of events to support SME’s growth.
What do you think are most important skills that a successful event manager needs?
The role of an effective event manager requires a range of skills.
- Organisation, Planning, and Balance: Event managers must be able to juggle multiple tasks at the same time, carefully planning to ensure seamless execution.
- Composure Under Pressure: Events planning can, at times, be stressful, with unexpected challenges so a successful event manager must be able to stay calm under pressure.
- Creativity: Creativity comes into play when designing engaging and thought-provoking experiences and is an important planning skill when it comes to creating a successful event.
- Relationship Building: Strong interpersonal skills are vital as Event Managers often have to collaborate and build relationships with clients, vendors, sponsors, and attendees.
- Strong Processes: From initial planning to post-event evaluation, having streamlined workflows ensures consistency, minimises errors, and enhances overall efficiency.
What do you enjoy most about working at Newable?
I enjoy assisting business owners on their entrepreneurial journey by guiding them, helping them develop knowledge to grow their company and helping them build professional networks. Many business owners operate in isolation, and at Newable, we have the privilege of opening up a world of knowledge and professional networks for them.
Additionally, I enjoy collaborating with our event speakers who provide a wealth of expertise and practical insights.
On event days, I take pride in supporting the delegates and ensuring that everything runs seamlessly as it is both challenging and gratifying.
Outside of your day-to-day role at Newable, I am aware you are also part of our Employee Resources Groups (ERGs) which have been created to help create a supportive and inclusive community for employees to help foster a sense of belonging, provide networking opportunities and help promote professional development.
Could you tell me what your role is within our ERGs and what positive outcomes are you hoping to achieve by being part of these groups?
As a proud member of both the Mental Health ERG and the Women in the Workplace ERG, I am committed to fostering positive change within Newable through several key initiatives:
- Mental Health Advocacy: I actively contribute to enhancing awareness and understanding of mental health. My focus extends to neurodiversity and addressing anxiety-related challenges.
- Cultivating a Positive Culture: Our ERGs play an important role in shaping Newable’s culture. By organising activities, we are creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and included.
- Supporting Working Parents: Balancing work and family life can be challenging. As part of these ERGs, I actively explore ways to support working parents—whether by promoting Newable’s family friendly policies (i.e. flexible policies, parental leave) or providing resources that ease the juggling act.
Tell us about a professional success story that you’re proud of.
One of my most rewarding professional achievements was the Women in Business Event in July 2023, as part of the JP Morgan Global London Programme.
This peer-to-peer event was aimed at empowering and supporting women in the workplace. We delivered the event to 26 delegates, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the event’s inspiration, interactive discussions, and the chance to connect with like-minded women.
As a result, not only did this help foster connections but also contributed to our commitment to reach minority groups through the JP Morgan Global London programme.
The supportive environment created during the event remains one of my favourite memories in my professional journey.
What’s something surprising that not many people know about you?
I’m a bit of an adrenaline junkie. In New Zealand, I took on the world’s number one Canyon swing jump, which involves leaping off one of the world’s highest cliffs and experiencing 60 meters of free fall. But that’s not all—I’ve also embarked on two tandem skydives, one in the stunning Wanaka and another in Taupo.
I also have a passion for singing and all things music. I’ve sung in choirs at various events, including weddings and theatre shows accompanied by a live orchestra. And beyond that, I enjoy recording my own songs in a professional studio.
About Newable
For over 4 decades, Newable has been supporting thousands of businesses every year through the provision of Money, Advice and Workspace. An employee-owned business with a commitment to creating positive impact in all that we do, our team are on hand to help your business today.
Find out more about how Newable can help you and your business.