Ian joined Andy and Paul at Firebird back in 2001 and became Financial Director in 2004. As Financial Director Ian wears ‘many hats’ and heads up all the serious stuff… Firebird’s Accounts, Contracts, Health and Safety, GDPR, Insurances etc etc. Along with all his FD responsibilities Ian is also heavily involved with the conference and production side of the business and can often be seen onsite running large scale conferences and events.

How long have you been in the industry?
I started in the industry when I was 14 as a roadie for my friend’s mobile disco, I helped him lug his kit around and set up the equipment. I’ll let you do the maths as to how long ago that was…

What do you do in your spare time?         
I love getting out for long walks in the hills and mountains, the fresh air and views are breath-taking. I recently trekked to Everest Basecamp which was truly spectacular and I would definitely recommend that everybody should put it on their bucket list! I am also partial to going out for a run or to the gym, making wooden models and I’m a member of my villages social committee.

What has been your favourite highlight of the year?
Firebird’s Summer offsite activity day. I love spending time with the whole team and interacting with people I don’t see very often.

What’s your favourite tipple?      
When I’m at home or having dinner, I love a glass of red wine, Yellow Tail Shiraz is a particular favourite. When I’m at the pub with friends, or watching football or rugby, Guinness tops the list though!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?                  
‘Change the world, don’t let the world change you!’ It’s important to remember who we are and what we believe in and not to let external influences change us.

What do you think you bring to the team?             
A sense of fun and stability, we all work better when we’re having fun and enjoy what we’re doing!

What’s the #1 most played song?                     
My guilty pleasure is either Lionel Richie or S Club 7, no song in particular…

Why do you love working in events?        
It’s great being able to take somebody’s dream, or vision and turn it in to reality for them. Seeing their reaction on the day when they first walk in to their event is a great feeling.

Five words to describe what Ian brings to the team:
Stability, a calm presence, knowledge, collaboration and dance floor prowess!