What a great year 2023 has been for the venue. Let's hear from some of the team to see what stood out for them this year...
And just like that, we are in the final month of 2023!
This year has been nothing short of success and full of memorable moments for all at the venue, and this year, we hear from some of the team to tell us more about how 2023 went for them. From milestones to personal achievements, there are so many people who made the last eleven months so special… So without further ado, let’s jump right in to 2023 at the BDC!
Dominic Jones, Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
If you could describe this year in one word, what would it be and why?
Tumultuous. 2023 gave us a series of many exciting and unpredictable moments for the venue.
What has your favourite moment been this year for the BDC and why?
Hearing the Chair of the RIBA describe the BDC as “the Harley Street of Product Showrooms” at the opening of the fantastic Zumtobel showrooms on the Gallery level of the BDC. Faint praise indeed.
What are you looking forward to next year for the BDC and why?
The London Art Fair in January. The historical show is always a brilliant staple to introduce the year ahead.
Max Bull, Executive Director of Venue Sales
If you could describe this year in one word, what would it be and why?
Fun. Everyday has brought something new which has been exciting.
What has your favourite moment been this year for the BDC and why?
We have had so many successful stand out events, such as Podcast, Devoxx and most recently HIX, however I would have to say it was the outstanding work done by Leanne Pettyfer & Ed Muboro, who seamlessly inducted to the BDC two brilliant interns from the MENCAP Employee Me Scheme. This to me is one of the single most powerful and rewarding schemes that we have undertaken and Leanne’s attention to detail, focus and care is a credit to her
A specific personal achievement that you’re proud of?
I am a Sales guy so exceeding and achieving our most successful month in our history of trading for November is certainly one.
What are you looking forward to next year for the BDC and why?
I am excited to see the continued growth of the brilliant talent that we have throughout this company and hosting a record year of shows that will include a new Beauty Show in the Autumn. The opening of our new Food Bar that we have designed I believe be a key new addition to our offer and enhance our customer experience.
Kate Vandenburg, Marketing & Communications Director
If you could describe this year in one word, what would it be and why?
Wonderful. It’s been busy in the building, but seeing the venue truly flourishing once again has been wonderful. To be able to welcome so many people to new and returning events as well as seeing so many new showrooms open and existing businesses grow is fantastic.
What has your favourite moment been this year for the BDC and why?
Seeing the BDC achieve it’s B Corp Certification. We’ve been working on it since the end of 2020 and now to finally be certified is testament to the brilliant organisation that so many people love.
A specific personal achievement that you’re proud of?
My role has become more focused on sustainability so being named an industry Power 50 Green Champion was a great moment.
What are you looking forward to next year for the BDC and why?
Over the next year I am really looking forward to working with the wider team on the next steps as a business in terms of our sustainable development, as well as collaborating with isla and their Advisory Board in my new capacity there.
Stay tuned to hear from the rest of the team very soon…
