Meet Stephen Lawrence, Client Services Director

With a passion for Business Development and his authentic approach, Stephen has been a great asset to the team over the past 7 years! We had a chat with Stephen to find out more about his time in the industry and with Smart Group.

HOW DID YOU START OUT IN THE INDUSTRY?

It was a long time ago…After university, I ended up selling advertising on what was the revolutionary “Ultimate Events Disc” to suppliers in the industry. It was an innovative floppy disc holding information on suppliers which we tried to sell to clients. The disc didn’t succeed but I learnt how to sell and found out about all the suppliers in the industry, which proved to be useful in the long run.

WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO SMART GROUP?

About 7 years ago, I was looking for a new challenge and got to know Greg Lawson (CEO, Smart Group) and was stuck by his passion for the business, authentic approach, and thirst for developing and growing the business.

WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL WAY TO SPEND A SUNDAY?

An early morning walk with my dog to catch the dawn chorus, then watch my sons playing football, rugby or cricket. Followed by a big roast, a few pints, and finished off with a double bill of the Antiques Roadshow and Countryfile.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE LONDON VENUE?

We are spoilt for choice in London, but my favourite is Freemasons Hall. Especially after we built the raised flooring in the Temple auditorium for the Christmas season.

YOU’VE BEEN INVOLVED WITH MANY EVENTS AT SMART, BUT WHICH ONE WAS YOUR FAVOURITE?

I always love a big party! But an event which really stands out was the “Illegal Wildlife Trade” event, hosted at Evolution London for the Government. It was a global event attended by many Heads of State with the primary aim of gaining global agreement to eradicate the illegal trade in endangered wildlife species.

WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE FOR PEOPLE STARTING IN THE INDUSTRY?

I would advise getting really stuck in and trying to learn as many elements of the process as possible, as quickly as possible. Try working with the sales team, helping in the kitchens, an evening in the cloakroom, going on pitches and presentations, helping on-site, working for production and technicians…the list goes on. Ultimately, try and build an amazing number of stories to tell.