Each week we will focus on a StandOut individual who has been extraordinary within the events industry. This week it is Nikki Buse, managing partner of Destinations Unlimited. Thank you to Laura Rosinska, chief executive officer at Event Exec for nominating Nikki!

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

From a young age, I have loved to travel. It is in my blood. My father was an event planner throughout his career, and in 1989 he started Destinations Unlimited. We started representing five destination management companies (DMCs) and now we represent more than 30 DMCs worldwide. My first job was at Abbey Life, and I joined Destinations Unlimited in 1991 under a Youth Training Scheme. I played a vital role in moving the company forward and in 2007, I was a managing partner.
Every experienced event organiser will confirm that a good DMC is vital for the success of any type of event being held abroad. I have strict criteria for all the DMCs we work with.
I have an extensive sales background in business-to-business sales, connecting with highly senior individuals within larger organisations. I understand the needs of clients and prospects… and to give them exactly what they want is testimony to the success of my approach!

What is it about your job that you love doing?

I love creating experiences, travelling, and discovering new destinations, either individually or as part of a familiarisation trip. Our industry is full of amazing people, and it is the best industry to be in.

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

I would say this year celebrating 35 years of Destinations Unlimited and a fam trip I attended to Jordan. We turned up in a desert to watch the sunset and a pianist was there playing the piano. Our group drank Champagne and sang songs whilst the pianist played. I did think I had seen a mirage at one point it was something you would never expect to see.

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?

My biggest achievement is winning the Gold at the M&IT Awards last year for the best DMC representation company in the UK. It was a proud moment for myself and my father who has now been retired for more than 15 years.

The biggest challenge was COVID-19, taking everything, including weekly presentations and DMC workshops, online.

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

Diversify your experience: Engage with various events to gain insights into the multitude of roles our industry offers.

Network and showcase your profile: Build meaningful connections via your LinkedIn profile, your little black book of contacts will be so invaluable in staying connected with everyone you meet. I have so many close friends from 33 years in the MICE industry.

Immerse yourself in industry events: Actively participate in event industry social media groups. Expand your circle and unlock new opportunities.

Take the initiative to introduce yourself to suppliers and agencies and seize the chance to shadow professionals to gain first-hand experience in different areas.

Embrace curiosity: Never hesitate to ask questions.

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?

I am always continuing to learn and develop my skills in our industry and my aim is to remain a respected leader in my field by contributing to industry publications or participating in professional industry associations and events. I would also love to expand my DMC network and would love to work on a crypto event. I find it very interesting, and it is a passion of mine.

Growth and development as an individual, both professionally and personally is very important to me.

Self-care is top of my list, taking regular breaks, reflecting on my achievements, setting goals, and having a mindset of self-improvement.

I am part of a 6am club which allows me time for myself before I start my working day. This includes following the 6 F’s founded by Michelle Rees which includes any of the following before 9am – friendship, finance, fitness, family, fun, focus.

If you would like to nominate someone for #EventProf of the week, please email marketing@standoutmagazine.co.uk.