Each week, we will focus on a StandOut individual who has been extraordinary within the events industry. This week it is Jamie Watkins, sales director at 3DB – Event Production Specialists.

How did you get into the events industry? Where has your career taken you and what roles have you enjoyed? 

I basically fell in to the event industry. My background was always media, selling ad space in publications and on to LED screens at events, then unfortunately I lost my job during COVID. During this period, my wife was expecting our second child, so it was a stressful time. Then I got an opportunity at PRG and fell in love with the live event space. After two years, I had the opportunity to join 3DB in an exciting role, with a company that was looking to move to the next level.

What is it about your job that you love doing? 

I love seeing a concept to reality. No two days are the same, no two events are the same. We have different challenges. From the pitch to being on-site to support our technical team and manage our valued clients.

What’s been the stand out moment of your career so far? 

It wasn’t my project but being part of providing the audio for Coldplay’s concert in Abu Dhabi. It was a very special and proud day for 3DB as a business and especially Eddie Mulrainey, our owner.

What’s been your biggest achievement? Equally, what have you done that you can now look back on and be super proud of due to its challenges?

I think every event we do, you look back with pride and sense of achievement. But I suppose, it would be over the extremely busy period, where we could have four or five big events happening over short period of time, and the whole team pulling together, and all wearing different hats from time to time. A few months back, we were having a couple of drinks to unwind after busy period, I suggested we should organise a golf day. It started off being just a couple of our key clients and turned in to a full on industry golf day with more than 130 golfers, along with a social evening networking. Certainly a few sore heads the next day! But was great to showcase some of our new equipment, create new relationship and celebrate with our current clients.

What key pieces of advice would you give to someone starting in events? 

I think the industry brings so many different characters, cultures and knowledge together, I think the industry allows people to add their own personal touch and something to be proud of. So just be yourself and embrace every day.

What career goals do you have and where do you see yourself heading? For example, is there an event that you would love to work on but haven’t? 

Since joining 3DB, I am the happiest I have ever been in a working environment. Being part of the growth of the business and trying to hit goals is a big drive of mine. Turning a company that was a small production house in to one that is now competing with the big boys and delivering major sporting and corporate events along with the concert touring is something I am extremely proud of. In the last 18 months we have been part of Dubai Desert Classic, Concerts for Coldplay, Robbie Williams, Jennifer Lopez, Boys to Men, Balad Beast Music Festival, Retail Summit, Abu Dhabi Cultural Summit and Monster Jam to name a few. So, I am pretty settled at the moment, and looking forward to what the rest of this year brings to the region.

Nominate your #EventProf of the week or sponsor an #EventProf and align your brand with the best in the industry by emailing marketing@standoutmagazine.co.uk