Getting to know Natalie Dillon

Natalie Dillon has worked in some of Sydney’s most prominent venues. She has done a stint in London (as every Australian should) and has even found time to start a gorgeous family. Natalie is currently the Event Sales Manager at SCG Events and Allianz Stadium and we are loving her answers to our probing questions. We are delighted to introduce you to Natalie and hope you enjoy getting to know another fabulous Event Birdie Pro…

Give us a snap shot of your career to date

After completing a Bachelor of Business in Tourism Management at Southern Cross University, I have worked in hotels and venues throughout my career. From Radisson in London; Menzies and Intercontinental in Sydney and then onto The Westin Sydney where I spent six fantastic years; then two years with the amazing team at Merivale before having some time off to have my beautiful girls. After maternity leave I joined Event Cinemas and now I have been at the Sydney Cricket Ground for nearly three years.

The most memorable event you have worked on and why?

Sydney FC 10 year anniversary lunch. The event was logistically challenging due to its location right in the middle of the field in Allianz Stadium, and a first for many working on it. There were many suppliers involved and the set up could only commence on the morning of the event. We had to build a satellite kitchen in the Away Change Room of the stadium and be creative in how we delivered the event. The sprinkling of rain in the morning made us all very nervous! The outcome was an amazing, unique experience for the 150 guests who had pre-lunch drinks in the Home Change Room and then sat a one long table in the centre of the pitch. The scoreboard and stadium sound system presentations made the event even greater. Watching the guests enjoy this thrilling experience made it so very memorable.

What did you ‘learn the hard way’ when planning an event?

Always have a wet weather plan!

What are three personality traits that are required to succeed in the events industry?

• Creative
• Resilient
• Organised

If you could share one piece of advice to those starting out in the industry what would it be?

Gain as much hands on experience as you can, whether that be as a volunteer or paid casual work. It looks good on your resume, plus it will start opening doors and building your networks. Never burn your bridges!

What song always gets you on the dance floor?

Get Lucky | Daft Punk

Favourite type of food?

Mayonnaise!

How would your friends describe your job?

Do you ever work?

Describe yourself in two words?

Snort laughing

How do you unwind after a big event?

Glass (or two) of red

Favourite restaurant?

Kyushu – Neutral Bay

When entertaining at home what do you cook?

Slow cooked pork

What do you prefer, cocktail party or sit-down dinner?

Sit down dinner

What’s your drink of choice at an event?

I’m always up for an arrival cocktail!

Favourite party theme?

French

It’s event day – heels or flats?

Flats before guests arrive and then its heels!

Why do you love your job?

High levels of job satisfaction and a great team to work with