Claire Drakeley

Claire is Programme Leader for the BA(Hons) Events Management course at the University of Northampton and the Deputy Head of Subject for Events, Tourism & Hospitality.  Her current teaching covers risk management for events, contemporary issues, diversity & inclusion, event strategy development, and sustainable event management.

Claire joined the University from English National Ballet (ENB) where she was Head of Enterprises & Events, leading the set up and operations of all commercial functions of the company. She also led the development and delivery of all event activity across the company including the opening of their new building, opening nights, Royal visits, and fundraising Galas.  Prior to ENB, Claire founded and led Mackerel Sky Events, delivering a vast range of event projects including Agile on the Beach, City of Lights, BBC Blast, and Bloodhound SSC.

Outside of UON, Claire is co-Director of 80% Awesome exploring the application of Agile practice to real life and living a life of sustainable awesome! She also presents and consults with various organisations and businesses including the British Science Festival, Imperial War Museum and Sport England. She is Research Advisor for the Power of Events and Chair of the Association for Event Management Education Research Special Interest Group.

Claire holds a BSc(Hons) Mathematics and an MBA and is working on several research projects around Agile event management practice and applied game theory, including her PhD focusing on decision making in events management. Her research seeks to understand how event managers make those difficult on-event decisions and create a framework of good practice. She is a published author with texts on virtual events management, events mis-management, and contemporary issues.