Getting to know the team behind Silverstone

Nicola Black recently joined the MICE team as Corporate Sales Executive. Here we say “hello” and welcome her to the team.

Hi Nicola, welcome to Silverstone International Conference & Exhibition Centre. Tell us all about what attracted you to join the team and about your first few weeks?

I have always loved cars and motorsport and have previously worked in hospitality, so to combine the two is my perfect job! My first few weeks have been brilliant, it’s been very busy getting to know the team and learning how this iconic venue works. There’s something new to learn everyday.

What did you do before joining Silverstone?

I’ve worked in the meetings and events industry for the last 20 years, selling and planning all sorts of different events. This includes everything from corporate meetings and residential conferences right through to Christmas parties and weddings.

As a MICE (meetings and events) expert, what trends are you seeing from organisers booking their meetings at the moment?

One of the biggest trends at the moment is the request for team building activities. Organisers really want to bring their teams together after working from home for so long. Our pit garages are the perfect place to go head to head with your colleagues in our pit stop challenge or race your colleagues on a giant Scalextric.

There also seems to be a real surge in organising short lead events. We have been inundated with enquiries for the next two months, which just highlights how much people want to reconnect at face to face events.

When clients are organising their event with you, what can they expect as your key strengths?

I’m passionate about helping event organisers create unforgettable events. I like to get a good understanding about what the main objectives are for the event so we can add the wow factor and ensure both organisers and delegates have a great experience. I pride myself on my attention to detail and good organisation, building strong working relationships with clients.

What makes Silverstone different to other exhibition venues?

It’s so much more than a venue, it’s a diverse and unique space that has the heritage of being the home of British Motorsport.

The exhibition space is huge and has views across the Grand Prix circuit. For something different, you can host events in the pit garages or take a hot lap around the circuit! Where else can you host an event and get the buzz of cars going around the track.

There are recruitment challenges across many sectors and events management has been hit quite hard. For graduates, school leavers or people looking for a career change, why would you promote a career in events?

The team here at Silverstone are so welcoming, you really do feel part of the team straight away. There is such a lot to learn from the knowledge and experience of the team that deliver some of the biggest events in the country. I would 100% recommend anyone to work here and pursue a career in events as it’s the best place to learn.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time when you’re not booking fantastic events for clients?

I love to be outdoors whether it’s going for a run, long walks or cycling. I try to travel as much as possible and of course watch some motor racing!