Our in-house AV team, QEII Live are constantly evolving and innovating. Since the arrival of Covid, the team have had to increasingly focus on their hybrid and studio capabilities, to the point that it is now features in a significant number of client events.

Even though we are now back to holding in-person events, Jo Shore, Senior AV Project Manager at QEII Live believes that this element will continue to be part of live events in the future. She also talks about her role within QEII Live, using her technical expertise to enhance a client’s event experience and how she once shared a stage with Bernard Manning.

How long have you been working at the QEII Centre?

I have been at the Centre for 27 years, having initially joined as a Technician in 1994 and have worked in project management since 2006. Prior to joining the QEII, I had come from a theatre background.

What are the key aspects of your role?

In a nutshell it is to liaise with clients to meet their technical and design needs. Throughout the event I am the client’s main point of contact for AV and will work closely with them to ensure their requirements are fulfilled, offering advice and solutions as required. I also work closely with internal teams especially the Sales and Event management teams.

What do you love most about your role?

The most satisfying thing about it, is being able to use my technical knowledge to enhance a client’s event and knowing that this has made a difference to them and the success of their event.

What three words would you use to describe the QEII Centre?

Professional, stylish, innovative

Why would you use those words?

I have chosen these words as the encompass different facets of the Centre. The centre is very professional and provides a very high level of service in all areas – technical support, client management, food service etc.  Whilst the stylishness and innovation comes through in the interior design of the building, which has changed significantly over recent years to create a high end feel in all areas from the impressive reception and registration up to the re-designed rooms and furnishings.

How do you think events will change in the future?

Inevitably, hybrid events will become part of the fabric of future as they have proved to be so successful, and the technology has shown what it is capable of. I am not just saying this because I work in AV!

What have you taken out of the last eighteen months that you will continue to do?

Long walks! I think like most people during lockdown, it is was one of the few things you could do, and the plan is to continue doing this more in the future.

Tell us something that people won’t know about you

I once appeared on stage with Bernard Manning in front of 3,000 licensed victuallers.