Point of View
Diane Earles
Director, IEM
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianeearles/
As part of our commitment to championing the industry, we are talking to people about their careers and what IEM means to them.
Diane Earles has over 20 years’ business experience, a sustained record of success and an extensive background in diverse service organisations, managing complex projects to achieve challenging objectives. She has held director positions in both clientside and agency marketing organisations, with a strong emphasis on events, and most notably was the Regional Director of The Chartered Institute of Marketing in the North of England.
Q What does the IEM mean to you?
A It is the recognition of a vital industry that we need.
Q Why did you decide it was important for you to get involved?
A All of my roles have involved events and, in my opinion they are under-estimated – as are the people who run them. I have attended many poorly organised events, which seems to be an accepted default, but thankfully have enjoyed many excellently organised events. As a result, I feel that professional event managers behind those excellent events need to be supported and recognised for the value and impact they create for organisations and society – and the world of event management itself can be lifted up. The opportunity to do something about that is too good an opportunity to miss!
Q Where do you hope to see the IEM in 20 years time?
A In 20 years time I envisage the IEM to be globally recognised as a champion for professional event management, a kitemark, a recognised standard – and most of all a great family to be part of.
Q What is your favourite event related memory?
A I think for the sense of achievement – and sore feet – my favourite event related memory is our Heroes events. We did 5 events on 5 consecutive days in the 5 counties of the North West for 200+ people each day for what was then the Learning and Skills Council. The theme music was David Bowie’s ‘Heroes’ and it transports me back to that intense, proud feeling – and those sore feet – every time I hear it.
