Louise Balderson is going to help shape the kind of experiences people genuinely remember – the ones that feel thoughtful, considered and built around real connection.
Having joined us as a Project Manager just two months ago, Louise has stepped into the role with a calm confidence and a clear passion for creating moments that stick. It’s an approach that’s grounded in understanding people first, bringing a sense of authenticity to every project she touches.
That focus on meaningful, human-led experiences is exactly what makes her the perfect fit for our team.
Louise’s journey
Louise’s path into events feels like a natural one. A self-confessed organiser at heart, she studied Events Management at Sheffield Hallam University before spending nine years with Hilton, working across multiple departments including their Graduate Programme.
From there, she moved into event planning and progressed into an Event Manager role within the production industry – steadily building a career grounded in hands-on experience and a deep understanding of what makes events work.
Along the way, she’s picked up some impressive recognition. Being selected for Fast Forward 15 stands out as a major milestone, alongside delivering the programme’s Mentoring Awards, as well as earning a place on the C&IT Agency A List 2025 and Tomorrow’s Talent 2026.
But beyond the accolades, Louise has become known for something just as valuable: staying calm under pressure and supporting the people around her when it matters most.
What drives Louise
For Louise, it all comes down to the moment just before it begins.
“That pause before the guests arrive, when all the planning and hard work is right there in front of you, ready to go. Then the doors open, and it’s all real. That feeling never gets old.”
It’s a perspective that sums up her approach: thoughtful, detail-driven and always focused on the end experience.
What keeps her motivated day-to-day is just as simple – the people. From collaborating with the team to bringing ideas to life together, Louise thrives on the relationships that sit at the heart of what we do.
And when it comes to advice for those looking to follow a similar path, her mindset is refreshingly open: say yes to as many opportunities as possible. Stay curious, get hands-on experience and build your network – because in this industry, being proactive, adaptable and willing to learn goes a long way.
Looking ahead
At XSEM, Louise is already getting stuck into a huge variety of projects – from activations and conferences to gala dinners, race days and expos.
There’s plenty on the horizon too, including an upcoming Madri activation and an exciting milestone: her first international event with us – a week-long conference in Barcelona.
It’s exactly the kind of challenge she’s been building towards, and one that reflects how her experience will continue to support both our team and our clients: delivering events that don’t just run smoothly but genuinely resonate.
Beyond the brief
Outside of work, you’ll likely find Louise exploring the countryside, tracking down the best Sunday dinners or trying out a new bottomless brunch spot – ideally anything that involves good food.
And if that’s not enough, she can also claim she’s shaken hands with King Charles – which is a pretty solid fun fact to have up your sleeve.
Because for Louise, it really is all about enjoying what you do, surrounding yourself with good people and creating moments that matter – and we’re excited to see exactly where that takes her next.
