Nikki McGavin

My career began in arts marketing, first as a Marketing Assistant at Sussex Arts Marketing and then as Marketing Coordinator (Music) at the Barbican Centre. These early roles gave me a solid foundation in audience engagement and the inner workings of world-class venues. I went on to become Festival Manager and then Executive Producer at Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival (hcmf). During my eight years there, I had the privilege of collaborating with some of the world’s most innovative composers and artists, presenting 50-60 events over a thrilling 10-day festival each November. Representing hcmf internationally, I learned from peers across Europe, Asia, and Canada, and even celebrated our team winning the Royal Philharmonic Society Award for Best Concert Series and Events in 2010.

My experiences in industry have undoubtedly shaped my teaching, allowing me to bring real-world insights and a global perspective into every module I deliver. At UCB, I teach across a range of courses, including the new MSc International Events Management, MA in Marketing Management for Events, Hospitality and Tourism, and both BA and FdA in Events Management degree programmes. We cover everything from live event production and international festival management to designing event experiences and exploring how our industry can address the climate emergency. Alongside my work at UCB, I’m also a proud Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and have had my work published.