Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
From clown to chief exec: lecture to inspire at Leeds Met
Founded in 1989, Theme Traders has grown to become one of the UK's leading events enterprises, responsible for hosting some of London's most lavish parties and featuring a client list of A-list celebrities.
David's lecture is entitled 'Values and creativity in the rapidly-changing world of events' and forms part of the International Centre for Research in Events, Tourism and Hospitality (ICRETH)'s 'Learning from Leaders' series. The lecture will take place from 5-6pm at the Carnegie Pavilion room 335, with a networking and drinks reception continuing until 7pm.
Tracing developments within the events landscape, David will discuss the changing socio-economics of event management and its growing status and professionalism within the industry, a transition which has led to event management being recognised as an academic field with dedicated degree courses.
David will emphasise the importance of values in building a successful and sustainable future for the industry and the planet. His value-led approach to running Theme Traders underpins his humanitarian and philanthropic work which includes supporting the children's charity POD, which organises entertainment for children in hospitals, the Good Deeds Organisation, and Kindness UK. In 2010, David also appeared in an extended version of Channel 4's Secret Millionaire TV programme, helping three charities in North East England.
Head of ICRETH and organiser of the lecture series, Professor Rhodri Thomas, commented: "Our mission is to enhance understanding of planned events, tourism and hospitality and to pass on that knowledge to our students, to policy-makers and to other practitioners. In addition to our scientific research, some of that understanding comes from working with those who have excelled in their chosen field. David fits that category which is why we are delighted that he is prepared to deliver one of our 'learning from leaders' public lectures."
Keen to pass on his knowledge, David is a regular speaker at events and universities around the world and author of two influential books which draw on his industry experience: 'Party People: How to make millions from having fun' and 'Enjoy: The Creative Approach to Events'.
Places for this free event are limited. To register please visit: https://learning-from-leaders.eventbrite.co.uk and for more information please contact icreth@leedsmet.ac.uk or call Neil Ormerod on 0113 812 9239.