AIME运营总监Claire Graham谈大型会展执行挑战
Five minutes with… Claire Graham, director of operations, AIME
AIME运营总监Claire Graham分享其在Talk2 Media负责该展会的经验，强调需平衡760多家参展商的微观运营与宏观内容策略。她指出作为面向会展专业人士的活动，AIME的执行压力巨大，核心在于确保各方准时就位及应对突发技术难题。Graham建议从业者保持冷静并重视团队协作以解决复杂问题。
What is your background in the events industry?
I’ve been in the events industry for more than 20 years, focusing mainly on exhibitions since moving to Australia from Scotland in 2014.
I have managed a diverse range of large-scale events across many different industries, including food and drink festivals, trade show exhibitions, award shows and brand activations.
My career started in Glasgow at Radio Clyde touring big name acts around intimate venues, which was the perfect training ground for the unpredictability of the events world.
How long have you worked for Talk2 Media & Events on AIME?
I started working with Talk2 Media in November 2023, with AIME 2024 being my first insight into the show.
I then officially joined the team as director of operations and content in July 2024.
I have been involved in three AIMEs so far, which has been such a rewarding experience.
What does your job entail?
Everything from liaising with venues and sourcing talent, to organising builds and AV with our suppliers.
Every day is different and comes with interesting troubleshooting questions each time.
Sometimes I think I’ve heard all the scenarios possible, but then a new one comes along.
The main thing is making sure everyone is in the right place at the right time, including exhibitors, attendees, speakers and crew.
Do you enjoy your role?
I love the responsibility of delivering a large-scale show and the satisfaction of seeing a massive, complex project come to life.
What is your favourite part of the job?
There’s magic that happens when the doors open and you see months of planning and floorplan updates transform into a living, breathing event.
Seeing designs and concepts in 2D on a screen can’t compare to seeing it come together in real life.
How do you handle the pressure of the job?
I am quite level-headed and if there is a pressure point, it’s best not to panic.
There is always a solution to every problem; you just need to work through it systematically and prioritise what needs to be actioned first.
I try to do everything with a smile, even if my brain is going crazy on the inside.
Most large events are basically an Olympic sport of troubleshooting.
No matter how much you plan, someone will always need a power point where there isn’t one, or a speaker onstage will go rogue so you have to be ready to act.
Are there essential things that get you through long days?
A Berocca and sparkling water is a non-negotiable start to the day, followed closely by a sense of humour and enjoying every second.
How important is it to have a good support team around you?
Essential – you’re only as good as the people in the trenches with you.
I value reliability and dedication above all else.
Having a team that can anticipate the next fire before it starts is the only way we survive the event together.
What’s the most challenging part of your role?
Balancing the microscopic details of operations with the big picture of content strategy.
Ensuring the AV for signage is perfect while simultaneously thinking about the logistics of 760-plus exhibitors is a constant mental juggle.
The biggest challenge is AIME being an event for event specialists – no pressure!
What advice would you give to someone thinking about a career in events operations?
Get comfortable with being uncomfortable and learn to love a checklist.
You need a thick skin, a quick mind and the realisation that while it looks glamorous from the outside, someone has to ensure bins are emptied and the tech actually works.
来源：Spice News · spicenews.com.au