Q&A: Kane Thomas, One Year at Full Circle Events and Exhibitions

Can you share some highlights of the past year, that you're particularly proud of?

One of my highlights this year was securing a three-year contract with Montgomery Group for their features on IFE. As part of a sustainability pledge between them and us, we will ?reinvent, redesign and redeliver, three features. for the next couple of years, following our first project in March 2023.

Another highlight, has been still maintaining contact with many of my previous co-workers and network, having now moved to ‘the other side of the fence’.

My favourite personal highlight of the year has been attending Ascot, something I’ve never done before,. We took 14 clients along with four of our team, it was great to see people outside of the business and in a more casual setting!

What have been some key learnings for you in your role over the past year?

Moving across to the contractor side has been eye-opening for me, seeing how another piece of the puzzle fits within the industry. Without being too particular, there have been a number of occasions where my opinion of something for the past 10 years has now shifted due to the new perspective I’ve gained.

To always shout about what you can do as a business. People are constantly interested in what you can do as a ?company, your talents and unique selling points. A prime example is us here at Full Circle who have a large-format printing studio (Psycho Peacock) and in-house production capabilities,. allowing us to fully manage jobs from design to the onsite delivery.

It is imperative to share knowledge! From Venues to existing clients, and new to the industry launches, spending time and developing their understanding of the sector, from sales to marketing, to operations and strategy. Shared knowledge leads to improved services and output for all parties involved.

Are there any specific goals or milestones you're looking forward to achieving in the next year?

• Currently, my biggest goal is to grow the division sustainably, upskilling the existing teams and onboarding and supporting new talent who will be a great asset to us. Whilst streamlining processes, increased communication across the business, which will result in a strong sense of achievement for me.
• On a personal level, making some time for a bit of home DIY in the next year!

How did you get into the exhibition world?

I absolutely fell into it! A friend of mine from University started working at Informa, before moving across to Clarion Events. ?I was introduced to Matt Miller shortly after he left Clarion events to form Mercury Events, which launched the Wedding Fairs and The Baby & Toddler Shows. He took a chance on me, and I took a chance on him, and before I knew it, I was immersed in an industry I knew nothing about until then!

Finally, have you got any Tips for anyone wanting to get into the industry?

Be loud. Be confident. This industry is full of big personalities, networking events and relationships. The whole industry revolves around face-to-face, so if you have the stamina, focus and determination, then you’ll go far!