Meet the Team – Ian Gatfield, Financial Director

30 October 2018

Next up in our ‘Meet the Team’ series of blogs is Ian Gatfield, Financial Director and lover of the great outdoors…

Ian joined Andy and Paul as a Co-Director of Firebird back in 2001. 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 trekked up Kilimanjaro a few years ago – it is definitely one of the best and worst things I have ever done! I am also partial to going out for a run or to the gym.

 

What has been your favourite highlight of the year?

Finally signing off GDPR!!

 

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 other people dilute us.

 

What do you think you bring to the team?             

A sense of fun and stability, we all work better when we are having fun and enjoy what we’re doing!

 

What’s the #1 most played song on your iPod?                     

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.

 

In November’s edition of ‘Meet the Team’ we will be putting our dynamic Sales and Event Manager Rachael Loosemore in the spotlight… Watch this space to find out more about her love of balloons and travelling!