Pick of the Bunch – Employee Spotlight: Gemma Marston, Events Manager

A Career in Event Management

Gemma Marston began her career with Glendale in 2005 as an Administrative Assistant in Lewisham. During that time, she took on the administrative role for the then events coordinator. Confidently, Gemma approached her manager at the time and said, “I could do a better job than your interim events coordinator.” Her manager replied, “Go on then,” and the rest is history. From the outset, she assumed responsibilities beyond her standard administrative tasks—managing public enquiries, resolving complaints, and directing queries to the appropriate personnel.

Her enthusiasm for learning and proactive approach led her to develop a keen interest in event management. In 2006, she was promoted to Events Manager while undertaking a diploma in events management at King’s College. In 2013, she further expanded her experience by providing her expertise to the London Borough of Lewisham on a temporary assignment while their events manager was on maternity leave.

Managing Events Across Lewisham

As Events Manager, Gemma oversees all events held in Lewisham’s parks and green spaces. In 2023 alone, she managed 882 events, ensuring each complied with health and safety regulations, licensing requirements, and logistical needs. She works closely with event organisers, assessing park suitability, reviewing event plans, and coordinating with local authorities to ensure smooth operations.

Her role also involves attending the Event Safety Advisory Group (ESAG) meetings, where she collaborates with emergency services and council officers to ensure events meet all safety standards. She advises on licensing and permissions, ensuring events comply with regulations regarding public performances, alcohol sales, and crowd control.

Key Events Throughout the Year

Gemma plays an important role in managing some of the most important events in Lewisham, including:

• London Marathon – 52,000 participants
• Kisstory & Uptown Festival – 30,000 attendees over two days
• Race for Life – 13,000 participants
• Community Festivals – including Manor House Gardens Festival, Blythe Hill Fields Festival, and Hilly Fields Fayre
• Cultural and Family Events – such as the Eid Festival, Chinbrook Dog Show, and various markets and fun fairs

The Skills Behind Successful Event Management

Gemma highlights that strong people skills are essential for success in her role. With each event managed by a different organiser, effective communication and relationship-building are vital to ensuring smooth operations.

She also emphasises the importance of community engagement. Large events require consultation with local residents, and Glendale now holds public meetings to address concerns and incorporate feedback into event planning.

Most Rewarding Experiences

Among the many events she has worked on, Gemma finds Race for Life particularly rewarding. The event, held annually on Blackheath, has raised over £1 million for Cancer Research, a cause close to her heart.

Collaboration Across Teams

Working closely with Glendale’s Grounds and Park Services Managers, Gemma makes sure  parks are maintained before and after events. This includes grass cutting, litter clearance, and site inspections to assess any post-event repairs. Before each event, she conducts site walks with organisers and takes damage deposits to ensure park conditions are upheld.

Measuring Event Success

To gauge an event’s impact, Gemma and her team use surveys to collect feedback from both attendees and non-users. These insights help shape future events and improve park services. Glendale shares the results at Parks User Conferences and User Group meetings, ensuring transparency and responsiveness to community needs.

Looking Ahead

With a growing number of community-driven events, Gemma is committed to supporting new initiatives and helping them become permanent fixtures in Lewisham’s annual calendar. The number of events held in the borough has risen from 590 in 2015 to 882 in 2024, showcasing the increasing demand for well-organised public events.

Beyond Work

When asked about her dream travel destination, Gemma shares that she hopes to visit Australia to reconnect with family and childhood friends.

Her dedication to event management, community engagement, and Glendale’s values makes her an invaluable part of the team, ensuring that events in Lewisham continue to thrive.