Point of View: Richard John

Richard John
C.O.O. at Realise Me Ltd
www.linkedin.com/in/mrrichardjohn/

As part of our commitment to championing the industry, we are talking to people about their careers and what IEM means to them.

Richard is C.O.O. of Realise, an events learning and development consultancy, which also provides specialist support for organisations working across all areas of the events industry, and delivers the new events assistant apprenticeship programme.  He is the creator and MD of Ideas Nest, the website that acts as a ‘dating agency’ for those who have great ideas and are looking for supporters and investors to make them a reality.  Then in his ‘spare time’ Richard undertakes a variety of consulting, advisory, speaking, mentoring and NED roles for event agencies needing the guidance that comes with grey hairs and battle scars.  He is also happy to start with sharing free advice and opinion to early stage businesses or those struggling with life’s challenges.  As if that wasn’t enough, Richard has had the pleasure of writing for several leading business magazines covering the meetings and events industry, as well as presenting and facilitating at numerous events around the globe.

Q What does the IEM mean to you?
A Recognition of the impact that the Meeting and Events delivers to every facet of our world.

Q Why did you decide it was important for you to get involved?
A I’ve always been supportive, and get fed up of too many people in the industry blowing hot and cold.

Q Where do you hope to see the IEM in 20 years’ time?
A As a Chartered Institute. Also, wheeling me out on an annual basis to an adoring crowd.

Q What is your favourite event related memory?
A Probably the launch of the Austin Montego in Cannes (I was very young) when we made the car fly!