Each week, we spotlight a StandOut individual who has made an extraordinary impact within the events industry. This week, we’re featuring Madeleine Marston, procurement director at HPower.

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

Straight out of university, I enthusiastically plunged into the events world with a sales role at Single Market Events in Richmond, working on Destinations – The Travel Show at Olympia. Under the mentorship of the legendary Simon Kimble and Tim Etchells, I honed my negotiation skills. I then moved to Clarion Events, where I took on show director roles for several renowned trade and consumer brands.

Currently, I lead the ceremonial events division at H Power International, delivering infrastructure for major ceremonial events, from funerals and coronations to state visits and national ceremonies. Over the past six months, I’ve been on-site for Royal Windsor Horse Show, the State Visit of the French President and his wife, VJ Day, and the State Visit of the President of the United States and the First Lady. We have Remembrance Weekend at Horse Guards Parade, the State Visit of the President of Germany, and the London International Horse Show before Christmas. It’s never dull!

What is it about your job that you love doing?

I absolutely adore people, and events are all about people – from the initial concept to the final delivery. The events industry offers the chance to meet hundreds of fascinating individuals. How many first names and numbers do we all have in our phones from events? The best part is you never know who you’ll bump into again and where.

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

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to be part of so many unique and special events, so picking just one is difficult. Working with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead to deliver the late Queen’s funeral in Windsor was an immense privilege. The entire events industry came together, and everyone went the extra mile. But honestly, every event I work on has its standout moments – no two are ever the same.

What’s been your biggest achievement? Equally, what have you done that you can now look back on and would have done differently?

My biggest achievement is choosing a career in an industry that I genuinely enjoy. It’s fantastic to look forward to the curveballs. As for what I would have done differently – well, there’s always more than one solution.

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

Don’t get into events for the money, and don’t just follow the crowd. Find your own solutions and your own path.

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?

My career goal is to further develop the ceremonial division at H Power. Reflecting on the last six months, I didn’t expect to be talking about the work we have done on the French or US state visits. I probably don’t yet know about an event I’d really like to work on, but I’m sure when it comes up, it will be a privilege.

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