Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
References
Timeline
Generic
Zoe Mclaughlin

Zoe Mclaughlin

Preston

Summary

Project and Event Manager with expertise in managing over 700 exhibitions across diverse industries. Proven track record in B2B communication and team development, enhancing performance and efficiency. Skilled in navigating high-pressure environments to deliver projects on time and within budget. Knowledgeable in large-scale printing, exhibition stand construction, and event AV systems.


Overview

18
18
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education

Work history

Project Manager

Imagine Events
Stockport
06.2023 - Current

During my time at Imagine Events I have not only continued to grow my portfolio of clients, shows and exhibition stand designs as in my previous roles but also taken on new responsibility and new skills and can proudly say I have now managed over 700 exhibition projects end to end with success during my time in the exhibition industry and with doing so I can say that I am well known within the industry and have created myself a valued amount of contacts ranging from fellow PM's, 3D designers and graphics designers and many contact in production of Prints, stand build (modular and bespoke), AV, H&S and logistics in the UK and worldwide.

My job role priorities are but not limited to delivering exceptional service to clients, maintaining and extending working relationships for future business opportunities.

Determined project schedules and maintained timeline efficiency using proactive adjustments to workflow.

Understanding and following of all exhibition manuals and processes Evaluated existing plans, processes and events planning services to identify opportunities for improvement.

Managed administrative logistics of events planning, event booking and event promotions.

Attend events and venues to sign off projects inline with Health and safety regulations

Strategised long-term business needs, driving customer feedback to deliver ongoing process improvements.

Reduced costs by using site resources and subcontractors effectively, delivering projects within strict budgetary demands.

Maintained exceptional knowledge of the category market, maximising opportunities across evolving project trends.

Mitigated workflow downtime by accurately scheduling staff and contractors and maintaining required material


I am proud to say that I have also spent the past 12 months working on and developing new software which has had the following impact.

  • Integrated new technologies into existing systems for improved functionality.
  • Fostered a positive work environment, enhanced team productivity substantially.
  • Ensured effective resource allocation with meticulous project scheduling.
  • Facilitated smooth transitions between project stages for seamless progression.
  • Strengthened stakeholder relationships through regular updates and clear communication.
  • Promoted team collaboration for more innovative solutions in projects.

Senior Project Manager

Mercer Exhibitions
Blackburn, Blackburn with Darwen
08.2021 - 06.2023

Assist in managing exhibition projects post-COVID, adapting to increased demand for stand builds.

  • Support proposal preparation, budget handling, and schedule management for diverse clients.
  • Aid in coordinating project schedules and maintaining workflow efficiency through adjustments.
  • Led cross-functional teams for effective project execution.
  • Collaborated with different department heads, ensuring alignment with overall company objectives whilst executing projects.
  • Balanced multiple projects simultaneously, demonstrating strong time-management skills.
  • Ensured timely completion of tasks with diligent monitoring and follow-ups.
  • Conducted technical and customer meetings, increasing communication and strengthening stakeholder relationships.

Exhibition Coordinator

A-Safe
Elland, West Yorkshire
10.2018 - 04.2021

As the only exhibition coordinator in the company, project managing all of the companies worldwide exhibitions for their 16 subsidiaries and international resellers team. Each year as a company we attended/exhibited at 130 shows. A few of these shows included IMHX (UK), ProMAT(USA), LogiMAT(Germany), Interairport(Germany) and Logistica(Netherlands)

My daily tasks are as follows

  • Prepare and handle proposals, budgets, schedules and stand design briefs.
  • Coordinate the creation and sign-off of 2D and 3D stand layout visualisations, adhering to exhibitor deadlines.Liaise with International offices on their events and exhibition requirements.
  • Review and improve the existing exhibition planning process.
  • Coordinate internal and external suppliers, and liaise with specialist in house teams including Technical, R&D, Production and Marketing to ensure delivery in full, on time and within budget.
  • Organise and process the data/leads generated at each event for the sales teams.
  • Plan, schedule and book transport and ground logistics for all shows worldwide.
  • Raise, amend and send purchase orders as required.
  • Effectively control the stock of exhibition stand materials including literature, back cloths, plinths, base plates and stand furniture.
  • Devise, test and implement new ideas for improving the appearance of exhibition stands, reducing complexity, introducing modularity, improving efficiencies and reducing costs.
  • Monitor show performance versus targets, recommending changes based on results.

Commercial Photographer

Freelance
01.2012 - 11.2018
  • Assisted in capturing diverse photographic content across various commercial sectors including products, fashion, and food.
  • Defined image requirements and supported the planning of photographic events.
  • Edited images through cropping and colour manipulation to enhance visual quality.
  • Maintained a calm and professional demeanour during all photo shoots.
  • Produced high-quality images suitable for both print and online distribution.

Private Nanny

Private Professional Family
Halifax, West Yorkshire
01.2016 - 01.2018
  • Supported care for four children aged 2 to 14 years.
  • Assisted with daily activities and routines to ensure well-being.
  • Provided nurturing and attentive supervision to meet individual needs.
  • Managed challenging behaviours calmly, promoting emotional maturity in children.
  • Administered medication as directed by parents, ensuring proper health management.
  • Provided first aid treatment to minor injuries, ensuring quick recovery.
  • Supported childhood development with educational games and outdoor activities.
  • Transported children safely to various appointments and engagements.
  • Communicated regularly with parents about daily activities and behaviours observed-maintaining transparency in care provided.
  • Prepared nutritious meals for improved health.

Night Receptionist

Huddersfield
Huddersfield
01.2015 - 09.2016
  • Managed nightly operations at Premier Inn for nearly two years while pursuing a degree in commercial and fine art photography.
    Executed reception duties, ensuring high standards of customer service.
    Handled guest inquiries and resolved issues efficiently, maintaining a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Effectively communicated with morning staff to ensure seamless shift changes.
  • Ensured safe environment with vigilant security monitoring during night shift.
  • Managed reservations, ensuring all bookings accurately recorded and confirmed.
  • Attended to guest complaints swiftly, resolving issues professionally and amicably.

Area Manager

The Body Shop at Home
01.2008 - 12.2011
  • Achieved significant career advancement from sales consultant to area manager.
    Successfully completed management training course, leading to enhanced team leadership capabilities.
    Recruited and managed a high-performing team of 30, fostering a culture of excellence.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Commercial and Fine Art Photography

Huddersfield University
Huddersfield, Kirklees
09.2012 - 07.2015

B.TEC National Diploma - Graphic Design

Calderdale College
1998

Skills

  • Client and vendor management
  • Cost estimation
  • Workflow optimization
  • Crisis resolution
  • Event management tools
  • Microsoft Office proficiency
  • Adobe Creative Suite expertise
  • Attention to detail
  • B2B and international communication
  • Process improvement strategies
  • Decision making capacity
  • Knowledge of HubSpot and lead nurturing

Accomplishments

  • Process Improvement building PM platform
  • Best build under 30sqm ESSA award 2025
  • Best Build over 30sqm ESSA award 2025


References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Project Manager

Imagine Events
06.2023 - Current

Senior Project Manager

Mercer Exhibitions
08.2021 - 06.2023

Exhibition Coordinator

A-Safe
10.2018 - 04.2021

Private Nanny

Private Professional Family
01.2016 - 01.2018

Night Receptionist

Huddersfield
01.2015 - 09.2016

Bachelor of Arts - Commercial and Fine Art Photography

Huddersfield University
09.2012 - 07.2015

Commercial Photographer

Freelance
01.2012 - 11.2018

Area Manager

The Body Shop at Home
01.2008 - 12.2011

B.TEC National Diploma - Graphic Design

Calderdale College
Zoe Mclaughlin