Women make up 77% of the global events workforce, yet hold only 16% of leadership roles. The imbalance is well known, but the women driving this industry forward are still too often overlooked.
The 70% is a weekly series dedicated to changing that. Each instalment profiles a woman whose work, insight, and ambition shape the events sector – from emerging talent to established leaders. Through their stories, we explore the pathways, challenges, and perspectives defining what leadership looks like today.
This week we meet Nicky Brown, commercial director of Arctic Fox Events and HeyVenues and Aimee Cloona, director of operations at Arctic Fox Events and HeyVenues.
How many years have you been in the events industry?
Nicky: Collectively a little too many to count – I started life in corporate events over 20 years ago, with Aimee 16 years ago.
How do you balance professional growth with personal commitments and do you think the industry is evolving in terms of work life balance?
Aimee: “When we started, the long hours and busy days onsite were exciting. Now, with families, it’s important that our business reflects a better balance.”
Nicky: “Exactly. From the start, we wanted a business that allowed us to juggle work and home life. Even with the industry changing, we’re lucky our work can be done anywhere with the right tools and teamwork.”
Aimee: “It’s shifted from full-time office work to a more hybrid, flexible approach, which matches what we see with clients.”
Nicky: “And office culture has evolved too. As we’ve grown, creating a relaxed, social environment where the team enjoys working together has become really important.”
Aimee: “We believe growth shouldn’t come at the expense of life outside work. HeyVenues was a dream project we returned to once Arctic Fox was stable, supported by a team who encourages both our personal and professional growth and some fantastic industry and family cheerleaders!”
How do you see the events industry evolving in terms of diversity, equity and inclusion?
Aimee: “The industry has definitely evolved in terms of diversity, equity and inclusion but there is still some way to go to create a culture where everyone feels valued and able to thrive.”
Nicky: “There is a stronger focus on leadership and event experiences creating a space for unrepresented voices and we hope this continues!”
What advice would you give to young women looking to enter and succeed in the events industry?
Aimee: “Be yourself, work hard, and always keep learning and pushing forward.”
Nicky: “Building your network is crucial – who you meet and learn from shapes your career. Take opportunities, don’t fear mistakes, and focus on how you grow from them. The events industry values relationships, and it’s one you’ll carry with you throughout your career.”
Aimee: “100%. We were incredibly fortunate to have strong female influences early in our careers. Their guidance and example have profoundly shaped the way we work and lead, and we are deeply grateful for the lasting impact they’ve had on our professional journeys.”
How do you handle set backs and failures?
Nicky: “What makes our partnership work is that we approach setbacks differently but over years of working together, we’ve learned a lot from each other. I focus on people; Aimee is the doer. If she decides it, she makes it happen. That combination means we don’t dwell on setbacks-we pick ourselves up, dust off, and keep moving. Things rarely go perfectly, but it’s how you respond that counts.”
What changes do you think are still needed to create more opportunities for women in leadership?
Aimee: “I think there needs to be a number of things in place- flexibility to allow the balance of career focus and home life and maintaining this balance, an inclusive culture, opportunities and clear pathways for progression and recognition coupled with mentorship and guidance and an encouragement to take risks- to learn from mistakes. Its not just about opening the door its about having the support and confidence to walk through it.”