60 Seconds with Jemma Houston

Monday 3 August 2026

Tell us about your role and your organisation

I am a dedicated Events Coordinator with a passion for creating memorable experiences that bring people together. My journey began at the age of 16 in the hospitality industry, where I developed a strong work ethic, exceptional customer service skills, and the ability to thrive in fast-paced environments.

As a single mum, I have learned the value of resilience, determination, and balancing multiple responsibilities. These experiences have shaped both my personal and professional approach, helping me stay organised, adaptable, and calm under pressure.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I completed a degree in Events Management and graduated in 2022. Shortly afterwards, I secured my first Events Coordinator role, discovering a career that perfectly combines my passion for organisation, creativity, and building meaningful connections.

For me, event management is about much more than schedules and logistics. It is about creating experiences that leave a lasting impression. Whether coordinating corporate conferences, community events, fundraising initiatives, or celebrations, I take pride in delivering events that exceed expectations and create memorable experiences for all involved.

Career Journey

My career journey has been shaped by resilience, determination, and a commitment to continuous learning. I began working at 16 and spent two years in food and beverage at The Merchant Hotel, where I developed strong customer service, teamwork, and communication skills.

While studying for my A-levels, I discovered I was pregnant with my son. During that time, I balanced three jobs while continuing my education, gaining invaluable experience in time management, adaptability, and perseverance.

After my son was born, I continued working in customer service roles while returning to university to study Events Management. Completing my degree during the COVID-19 pandemic brought unique challenges, with much of the course delivered online. Despite this, I remained focused on my studies and graduated in 2022. One of the highlights of my university experience was organising and delivering an in-person event, providing valuable practical insight into event planning during unprecedented circumstances.

Soon after graduating, I secured my first Events Coordinator role, bringing together my years of customer-facing experience and passion for organisation. Looking back, every role I have held has contributed to the professional I am today. As a single mum, my journey has taught me that challenges can become opportunities for growth, and I am proud to have built a career that I genuinely love.

One Skill That Helps Me Most

Organisation is the skill that helps me most in my role as an Events Coordinator at Malone Hotel.

Every event involves managing multiple tasks, deadlines, suppliers, stakeholders, budgets, and last-minute changes. Strong organisational skills allow me to plan effectively, prioritise tasks, and anticipate challenges before they arise. It also helps me communicate clearly with everyone involved, ensuring every element of an event comes together seamlessly.

For me, organisation is not just about schedules and checklists. It is about creating confidence for clients, colleagues, and attendees, allowing them to enjoy the event knowing every detail has been carefully considered.

Advice for Women in Events

Believe in your own journey. Everyone's path is different, so never compare your timeline to someone else's.

Don't be afraid to ask questions, seek guidance, or step outside your comfort zone. Growth and confidence come from taking opportunities that challenge you. Every experience, whether successful or difficult, teaches valuable lessons that help shape your future career.

Exciting Plans Ahead

One of the most exciting chapters of my career has been being part of The Malone Hotel's refurbishment and relaunch. Joining during such a significant period of change gave me the opportunity to work alongside a new management team and help shape the next chapter of the hotel.

The refurbishment introduced a fresh vision and renewed focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences. Being involved in the relaunch allowed me to contribute to creating memorable events while supporting the transition into a new era for the venue.

This experience has helped me strengthen my organisation, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while giving me the opportunity to grow professionally within the hospitality and events industry.

Biggest Career Inspiration

My biggest career inspiration is my nanny.

As a single mother, she raised my dad on her own and taught me the importance of hard work, resilience, and never giving up, regardless of the challenges life presents. She showed me that success is built through determination, perseverance, and continuous growth.

I am also inspired by women who successfully balance careers, family responsibilities, and personal challenges while continuing to pursue their goals. Their strength and determination remind me that anything is possible with the right mindset and commitment.

Connect with Jemma

The best way to connect with me is through LinkedIn. I'm always happy to meet new people, build connections, and chat about the events and hospitality industry.

How Women in Business Has Helped My Career

Attending Women in Business networking events has played a valuable role in my professional development as an Events Coordinator.

These events have given me the opportunity to connect with inspiring women from a wide range of industries, learn from their experiences, and build meaningful professional relationships. Networking has helped me grow in confidence, strengthen my communication skills, and gain valuable insights into leadership, career progression, and problem-solving.

The connections I have made have expanded my professional network, provided opportunities to exchange ideas and best practice, and reinforced the importance of collaboration and supporting one another within the business community. Women in Business has encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, embrace new opportunities, and continue developing both personally and professionally.

Monday 3 August 2026