I have held the most interesting and exciting roles in the past but there’s one role I would like to highlight because this stage of my life was where I was the most creative, high spirited and most inspired that if I was given the chance to live through again I would in a heartbeat! Read this as if you’re reading a blog and a shortish description of what I used to do and note that I have specifically removed key dates and some public figures as I feel comfortable not to include them in my story.

Title: Social Secretary to the HM British Ambassador (Served three Ambassadors during my stint at the British Embassy)

Devised, managed and delivered a series of social, trade and cultural events. These included cocktail receptions, luncheons and formal sit-down dinners for ministerial and royal visits such as for the Lord Mayor of the City of London; HRH Princess Anne, The Princess Royal; several MPs, the country’s President, and government ministers.

Managed a staff of 12 at the British Ambassador’s residence, handled HR duties, staff training, employee benefits and payroll, and staff living quarters allocation.

Organised fashion shows, exhibitions, and cultural events. This included the promotion of British products featuring Marks & Spencer, Burberry, Top Shop, Paul Smith, Alfred Dunhill, French Connection, Pool Pottery, Lush, Wedgwood, Jaguar Cars and Body Shop. These events were successful and well attended by up to 800 guests. Management of private concerts and receptions promoting the London cast of Miss Saigon, Les Miserables, Phantom of the Opera, and other famous European and Asian artists.

Responsible for organising the annual British Embassy banquet receptions in honour of Her Majesty the Queen for up to 900 guests, as well a smaller intimate dinners at the Ambassador’s residence. Organised charitable events, conferences, award ceremonies, and the travel arrangements to British funded development and environmental projects for the Ambassador.

Budget management of events including liaising with local and foreign suppliers to ensure goods were delivered in time for functions and to ensure the goods were of the best quality. Diary management for the Ambassador included producing a weekly advance summary of the events he needed to attend. Travel management and coordination of diplomatic protection unit.

Maintained a data base of the key-players in the business, political and socialite sectors. This helped the Ambassador and I to draw up guest lists and helped colleagues know who were the key contacts of the embassy.

Prepared reports and briefed the Ambassador about the key players he would meet at functions and meetings to help him understand his customer audience.

It was the best ten years of my career before I left for overseas as part of diplomatic posting. I have many beautiful memories I would cherish forever.