Founder & Group CEO at emc3
Alistair Graham
Bringing founder-level perspective, strategic thinking, and real-world leadership to support the next generation
Fast Forward
15
Meet The Mentors
2025/2026
Hyatt - National Sales Director
Bernice Heard
Bernice is an award-winning hotel sales professional and currently serves as the National Sales Director for UK & Ireland at Hyatt Hotels & Resorts.
Director of Events at XSEM
Caroline Medcalf
Caroline is Director of Events at XSEM and has dedicated her career to championing the power of events in connecting people, building successful brands and creating meaningful experiences.
SMM Account Management Director @ BCD Meetings & Events
Daisy Graca-Crane
Guided by the principle to “lift as you climb,” I have jumped at the opportunity to be a mentor at FF15 as I am committed to empowering young professionals to thrive in the dynamic events industry.
CEO Founder Make Events
Holly Bennett
I wanted to be involved in FF15 particularly after qualifying as a coach. I’m passionate about sharing everything I’ve learned to help others fulfill their own version of anything is possible - what ever that is.
Corrigan Collection - Head of Sales
Kathryn Williams
Kathryn is currently Head of Sales for The Corrigan Collection; a collection of restaurants, bars, and venues owned by the renowned Michelin-starred chef Richard Corrigan.
Founder at Loft
Lee Dennison
Returning with fresh insight, honest advice, and the kind of perspective you only get from doing the work
Founder, CEO & Creative Director - The PS Events Group
Lucy Nicholls
Visionary CEO and Creative Director of The PS Events Group, a global force in high-end experiential production and elite event consultancy. With a foundation rooted in West End Theatre, Broadway, and global television, I bring a rare fusion of commercial strategy, creative precision, and artistic flair to every project.
UK Sales Director - Destination Toronto
Nicola Alexander
I wanted to become a FF15 mentor because I know how much guidance, honest conversation, and encouragement can make a difference.
Senior Events Manager at Weil
Nicola Weston
An FF15 alumna (2017), Nicola is excited to return as a mentor, giving back to a programme that shaped her journey and supporting the next generation of female leaders.
Kerb - Purpose & Culture Manager
Priya Narain
Being a mentor on the Fast Forward 15 programme is an incredible opportunity to give back, share knowledge, and support emerging talent in the industry. I’m passionate about empowering others to realise their potential and navigate challenges with confidence. Together, we can create a more inclusive and dynamic future for events.
Consultant
Richard Bridge
As a Fast Forward 15 mentor, Rich is passionate about developing the next generation of event professionals and helping aspiring talent uncover their potential, build confidence, and shape successful, fulfilling careers in the industry.
Head of Events NASUWT – The Teachers’ Union
Sammy Connell
Being a mentor on the Fast Forward 15 programme has been such a great experience. It’s amazing to help someone grow in confidence and reach their goals.
LSEG - London Stock Exchange Group - Head of Events & Studios
Tom Hurley
Tom has a background of events, internal and external communications experience and has worked in the Retail, Financial Services and Telecoms sectors. He now leads the Events and Studios teams at LSEG
KPMG Business Services - Senior category Manager
Victoria Owens
Victoria has 25 years’ experience working in Hotels, Events and Procurement holding senior positions and enjoying consistent promotions within Marriott, MCI, BAE, Arqiva and most recently KPMG.