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Chris Smith
Director, Project ManagementMeet Chris Smith
Chris, a seasoned Project Manager with over 20 years in live, virtual, and hybrid event production, heads the London project delivery team. He’ll spearhead your event, collaborating with project managers and technical experts. Chris excels in client liaison, cost estimation, design, technical implementation, schedule management, and crew coordination, ensuring world-class service and exceeding expectations. His passion and expertise grow as he explores new possibilities in the hybrid event realm. Notable projects include the Adobe Experience Makers Awards, Hilton Global Sales Meeting, and Adobe Max (EMEA).
As I got more involved in the technical side of things, I became more and more interested in the equipment and how it worked. This eventually led to me starting my own technical production company.
How do you think the role of technical production has evolved over the years?
With the rapid development of technology, audience expectations have risen significantly, resulting in the need for production to be more integral to the storytelling of events. The vast range of tech available to us today enables us to deploy innovative solutions to support and enhance the narrative of an event. From lighting and sound systems to video solutions and stage design, creative technical production has become an essential element in the success of any event. It is no longer just about providing essential technical support but about using technology to create memorable experiences that resonate with audiences long after the event has ended.
During your time with Encore, you’ve worked on a huge variety of events; what’s your favourite?
I couldn’t possibly pick just one! Throughout my 15 years as a part of the Encore team, I have had the privilege of working on numerous events. However, there are a few that have left an indelible impression on me. These events were truly special because of the outstanding collaboration between our team and our clients. From the initial planning stages to the final execution, everyone involved worked together seamlessly to ensure that every detail was accounted for and that the event was executed flawlessly.
It is this kind of collaboration that makes working in the events industry so rewarding. Being able to work hand in hand with our clients to create something truly unforgettable is a privilege that we do not take lightly.
What did you learn then that you still apply now?
One important lesson that I learned and still apply now is to always have a well-thought-out plan in place. It is equally important to have a contingency plan or a plan B in case the original plan falls through and always anticipate and prepare for any last-minute challenges, changes or additions that may arise. By being proactive and having a solid strategy in place, you can navigate unexpected situations with confidence.
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