2023 for Hippo Events kicked off with a bang with Alex Jany joining our team. Below we’ve asked her a series of questions – some interesting, some random – for you to get to know her more!
Why did you want to work in events?
Events is a way to make a person’s day better, whether that’d be through a great venue, food or even just a smiling face! This, along with the sense of accomplishment you feel when an event has gone successfully after all the time and effort you put in – there is no better feeling!
What skills do you bring to Hippo Events?
I hope to be able to bring my background and understanding of hotels and quite specifically events operations to the role but more generally I hope to bring even more charisma and positivity to Hippo Events!
So our clients can get to know you more, tell us about your background.
As long as I have known I have always wanted to work within a people-first industry! This led me to spend the summer I turned 16 in Bavaria, Germany, working in a hotel to gain work experience in the hospitality industry. Here I fell in love with the atmosphere and fun that came from being in the busy environment and the diversity of people you met. I knew then it was something I wanted to pursue so I went to study International Hospitality Management at Oxford Brookes University.
During my time here I took a placement year and worked in the events team at the Park Plaza London Victoria Hotel – although incredibly hard work, I made friends for life and knew this fast-paced and ever-changing atmosphere was something I wanted to be a part of. Unfortunately, on graduating university and starting a new job in London, COVID took over the world and I (and everyone else!) found the industry shutting down and having to move back home. I have since worked in the real estate industry before finding Steve and Hippo Events!
Give us 3 random interesting facts about you.
Ok, so ummm…
(1) I am a qualified Nutrition and Lifestyle coach
(2) I have ‘starred’ in an educational film for children in Greece and Turkey, helping them to learn English
(3) I was once sat next to Usain Bolt on a flight
What energises you at work?
A good team – I have always found that if I am around people that are motivated to do a good job but can also have a giggle, I can enjoy even the worst of days!
Favourite food and drink?
Ohh, now that’s a good question! Given I’m a qualified Nutritionist I should say Water and Salad, but in truth my favourite drink is any kind of fruit juice or a gin and tonic and you’ll never find me far from some Cadburys chocolate buttons on the food front.
Favourite country you’ve travelled to?
Canada. Definitely!
What’s one song or artist that you’re embarrassed to admit you like?
Shania Twain … oh the shame!
What’s your most used emoji on text?
The crying laugher face – I definitely overuse it!
What’s your go-to dance move?
I am a horrible dancer! So there is definitely no ‘go-to’ moves. The shopping Trolley does make an appearance every so often though…
What unwritten rule would you make mandatory if you could?
Probably if you use up all of the toilet roll, you go and refill it! #PetHate
What’s the most ridiculous fact you know?
I have many, but did you know snails can nap for up to 3 years?
Hippo offer Event Project Management and Global Venue Finding services. Contact us today on 01372 460 100 or events@hippoevents.co.uk to see how we can assist.