IN SAFE HANDS

Our team is dedicated to ensuring that your event doesn’t just live up to expectations, but exceeds them.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TEAM

Amanda Ferguson - Head of Business Development

Amanda has 20+ years’ experience working at a national and international level in Business Events across public and private sector, and academia. A graduate of Heriot Watt University in International Business & Languages, she speaks fluent German and has a strong global outlook. Having worked for 12+ years promoting Scotland and Edinburgh as a conference destination, she is a passionate advocate for the value of business events in generating economic impact and driving innovation and progress within the knowledge economy.

Outside of work Amanda is happiest exploring Scotland, whether running, rock climbing or walking her dogs.

Gordon Dow - Business Development Manager, Conference & Events

Gordon has 20+ years’ experience working within the Hospitality and Events Sector which has included leading banqueting, operational, hotel reservations and front of house teams. Gordon has worked within the University for over 10 years supporting sales and business development across all products and services. He currently leads on key sector research, account development, key client relations and contributing to the business development strategy. With a passion for the knowledge economy, he is inspired by the connections, shared learnings, ideas and breakthrough discussions that can be sparked at conferences and events.

Outside of work Gordon enjoys the great outdoors in particular long walks, forest bathing and kayaking.

EVENTS TEAM

Rachel Foot - Conference and Events Manager

Rachel has over six years of experience working in the industry, planning and managing a wide variety of conferences and events across Edinburgh. A graduate of Queen Margaret University with a BA (Hons) in Events Management, she has a keen eye for detail and is passionate about creating successful and memorable experiences for all of her clients, whether that is an intimate dinner or a four-day international conference.

Outside of work, Rachel is happiest when travelling to new places, testing out new restaurants and listening to ‘true-crime’ podcasts.

Tracy Marshall - Conference and Events Manager

Tracy joined the team in 2021 with over 20 years’ experience in the hospitality & events industry.  She has worked for global brands including Rocco Forte, Hilton and IHG, delivering a variety of successful events from weddings and charity events to large international conferences. Tracy relishes the variety of the role and is really driven by building strong, long-lasting client relationships.

In her free time, Tracy likes spending time with her husband and 2 children and has found a new love of wild water swimming.

Sian Cusack - Conference and Events Coordinator

Sian has worked in hospitality for over 15 years. She joined our Hospitality and Events Sector in 2017 as part of the Hotel Reservations Team where she was responsible for group accommodation, including summer schools and international sporting events. At the end of 2021, Sian brought her eye for detail and relationship building skills to the Events team.

Outside of work, Sian manages the rugby teams that her two young sons play in.