AJ
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AJ •
BACKGROUND
Born in London in 2002, I moved to New Zealand at the age of four. Growing up in a musical environment, I’ve always been surrounded by the industry. My dad, who has spent his career in various roles from label ownership to tour management, often brought me along on tours. Those experiences sparked my passion for pursuing a career in music. At seven, I began learning guitar from my stepdad, a musician himself, and by high school, I was performing in pubs. That experience evolved into a desire to produce my own events.
I have completed a Bachelor of Commercial Music at Massey University in Wellington, which I will finish by the end of this year. Over the past three years, I have gained extensive knowledge about various roles and career paths within the music industry, along with the practical skills required to succeed in those areas. My studies have offered a balanced combination of practical and theoretical learning, giving me a comprehensive understanding of the industry.
During my time at university, I have honed a wide range of event management skills. I’ve gained hands-on experience organizing and managing events of various scales, including working closely with venues to negotiate terms, developing event concepts, managing budgets, and handling the logistical elements required to deliver seamless experiences. This has involved everything from artist booking and liaising with suppliers to coordinating teams and overseeing event execution on the day. I’ve also developed strong project management skills, ensuring that every detail is planned and accounted for within deadlines and budgets.
I have experience in event promotion and marketing, using digital tools and social media strategies to drive audience engagement and ticket sales. Additionally, I have worked with safety regulations, risk management, and compliance protocols essential for ensuring smooth and safe event operations.
Alongside the practical event work, my academic studies have deepened my understanding of the wider industry context. This has included conducting research, writing reports, and delivering presentations on relevant topics such as audience development, the impact of technology on live music, and the evolving role of festivals in contemporary culture.
This summer, I will continue managing my events company, Motion, where we have several events planned, including a boat party and free outdoor raves.