With the inaugural Conference News Creative Leaders Summit fast approaching, Conference News has spoken to some speakers and panellists about their upcoming sessions, the importance of creative leaders coming together and the biggest challenges facing creative leaders today.
The summit is taking place on 11 and 12 June at De Vere Horsley Estate and will bring together senior creative figures from the agency community, discussing the challenges and sharing best practice when delivering creative visions for immersive live and brand experiences. Find out more about the summit here.
In this interview, we spoke to Laura Lucas, head of creative and events at creative events agency, UKSV. Lucas will be speaking on the second day, on a panel called ‘The Creative & Production Relationship: From Friction to Flow’. The panel will discuss how the most effective agencies foster mutual respect, shared language and collaborative problem-solving between creative visionaries and logistical masterminds. She will be discussing this alongside Hope Lewington, creative director at CTL Communications, Nick Thomas, head of technical production at The Collective, BCD UK and Stuart Button, executive creative director at Brandfuel.
What inspired you to say yes to speaking at the Creative Leaders Summit?
I was inspired to say yes to speaking at the Creative Leaders Summit because it’s an opportunity to connect with other creative leaders who are pushing the boundaries of creativity and leadership. It’s an opportunity for me to share my thoughts and experiences and learn from others.
Why do you think it’s important for creative leaders in our industry to come together right now?
There are a lot of industry events aimed at event managers, agency leaders or corporates and perhaps a little less aimed specifically at creative leaders – so this was a great opportunity to be part of this new event!
It can feel often that clients can undervalue the role of a creative. Whether that’s down to budget pressure, timelines or perception of the value, creativity drives the experiences that clients are actually looking for a lot of the time. It’s such a great opportunity for creative leaders to share and learn from each other.
Can you give us a sneak peek into what your session will cover?
For me, the session I am part of is all about communication and building relationships. Make sure to be at the session to get a glimpse into the panel’s own experiences!
What’s the one key idea or takeaway you hope people leave your session with?
Dare to challenge but build your relationships and communicate well to allow you to challenge and be supported!
Who is your session aimed at, and why should they come along?
Anyone in a role working in collaboration with a production team or maybe any team – department doesn’t matter – this is absolutely about building relationships and good communication.
In your view, what’s the biggest challenge facing creative leaders today?
Client expectations within budget and timeframe demands!
How do you keep your creative edge in a fast-paced industry like ours?
Being constantly curious! Get out and see what’s happening elsewhere, network, share, learn and be open to ideas!
What advice would you give to the next generation of creative leaders?
Stay curious and never be afraid to try!
To register to attend the Conference News Creative Leaders Summit click here.
