The Two T’s – Teams and Talent

We’ve already proven that the independent venues in Leeds are a well worth consideration for your next conference or event. But it’s not just their uniqueness that sets them apart from the competition.

It’s the people behind the scenes. The teams at the heart of the independent venues of Leeds who have a wealth of experience and skills to ensure delegates experience exceptional. It is evident that the talent across the city’s independent venues have a huge impact on the conference experiences delivered and the support and service provided is reassuring and appreciated by their clients.     

The hard work and dedication of the teams championing their venues has helped Leeds secure significant conferences and events from clients such as MIND, Yorkshire Housing, Nestle, Goldman Sachs and Yorkshire Water.

Conference Leeds caught up with some of the talented teams from the city’s Independent Venues to find out why they love championing the independent offering in Leeds.

Megan MacBrairdy is the Venue Sales and Marketing Manager at Horizon Leeds, where 75% of the team has worked since its inception in 2014. The loyalty of Horizon Leeds’ team means that they are dedicated to delivering exceptional conference experiences to its clients, and this is shown in the feedback they receive. 

“The reason I love working for an independent venue is having full autonomy on the design and look of the space.” said Megan “The lack of red tape means we rarely have to say no to clients and can work with them to achieve their event objectives whilst sticking to quick turnarounds on enquiries and negotiations, which ensures our clients are receiving great customer service at all times.”

Law Firm, Bevan Britton said on Horizon Leeds: “The team have been really helpful and efficient in helping us with our event requirements. We always feel we are in safe hands.” 

Leeds Playhouse has recently undergone an exciting redevelopment, which has unlocked more versatility for the venue. Leeds Playhouse is world renowned for its theatre productions and its team are experts in bringing its spaces to life to create exciting and inventive conferences that each have their own unique element. Since it’s renovation, the team have been working hard to ensure that it is a welcoming, inclusive venue for anyone who comes through its doors, which resulted in the venue achieving the Most Welcoming Theatre in the UK award at the 2022 UK Theatre Awards last month. 

Leeds Playhouse has welcomed a host of conferences, including the Youth Summit which brings together young people and organisations to discuss all things culture and the changes they want to see being made in 2023 and beyond. Following their event, Laura Rakotonirina, Youth Voice Manager for LEEDS 2023 complimented the awe-inspiring Playhouse saying they were “able to create a welcoming, free-flowing morning activity and marketspace to ignite conversations and create a real buzz”. The Playhouse took the stress out of the conference organising process, managing the layout, logistics and catering for the entire event for which the organisers were “so grateful”. 

Since joining Leeds Playhouse, Conference & Events Sales Manager Kayleigh Wright commented: “One of my favourite things about running events at Leeds Playhouse has to be the adaptable and versatile nature of the spaces. It gives you the chance to shape your event without compromising on your vision. Whether you’re trying to plan a complex and multifaceted conference, an intimate family focused event, or want to set the stage for a one-of-a-kind private dining experience, our team of experts is always ready to jump on board and do everything we can to bring your event to life.” 

thestudio Leeds is a venue that champions its staff, encouraging them to be themselves in every interaction with their guests and this natural authenticity and warmth always receives high praise. 

On thestudio Leeds, Rena Crossley from The Alternative Board said: “The team are amazing. They are flexible and client focussed which, for us, is essential. The light, bright rooms and lunches always score highly with our attendees! We’d highly recommend working with them.”
The team at thestudio Leeds also have a deep interest in the health and wellbeing of its delegates, with dedicated areas for relaxation and revival to ensure delegates get the most from their conference and time in the city. The catering offer provided by thestudio Leeds is also a key element of their conference experience, with their on-site chef creating carefully designed menus and unique dishes that nourish delegates whilst leaving them with a lasting impression.   

Hosting your conference at one of Leeds’ many independent venues you can be assured that your delegates will experience the exceptional, at a unique and curated conference or event. Browse our Explore Leeds map to discover your next venue or find out more about the Independent offering here.