Alongside the development of the AI-simulation, Claire is undertaking some market research to explore the skills gaps across the cultural and events industries. This research will not only identify how the AI-simulation can enable organisations to improve their practice and support their teams but the research will also explore how MUTI Live might develop their offering to enable skills gaps to be closed effectively.

In collaboration with West Northamptonshire Council and as part of her day-job at the University of Northampton, Claire is leading the team to collaboratively develop an events strategy for the region, dovetailing in with the existing tourism and cultural strategies. This project will include community engagement, event activity mapping and collaboration with relevant public and private sector bodies to create a sustainable and impactful events strategy for 2027 onwards.

Building on her PhD research, Claire is the subject specialist for the development of an AI-driven decision-making training tool being cultivated by MUTI Live and working with AI and VR specialists. The prototype is in creation during early 2026 and we hope to have a model for testing by April. The aim is to create an immersive environment for the learner to practice on-event decision-making safely but for it to feel as real as possible. The experience draws on Claire’s experience as an event manager as well as her teaching and learning practice and academic research.

With support and funding from the University of Northampton, Claire is leading a new project focused on collaboration across the events, tourism, hospitality, retail and public sector to respond to the challenges of Martyn’s Law (Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025). This project is working closely with the Chief Constable’s office and Counter Terrorism specialists across Northamptonshire to develop shared guidance and practice that goes beyond compliance and promotes best practice. For more details, please contact Claire (claire.drakeley@northampton.ac.uk)

Claire was again invited to develop, plan and manage safety for the British Science Festival this year. Alongside the creation and development of the Event Safety Management Plan, Claire created the volunteer training materials as well as a special report into the festival’s compliance with Martyn’s Law (Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025) and good practice in relation to counter terrorism.

Building on her observations last year, Claire played a key part in delivering the 2025 Formula 1 British Grand Prix at Silverstone as a Base Controller. This role is about co-ordinating resources, people and responding to issues as they arise. In essence, this role is the manifestation of her research as well as being an opportunity to work at a very high level with an extraordinary team of professionals.

In collaboration with Rachel Picken, Claire developed the concept of operating at 80% Awesome and the pair have now built this into a business offering workshops, Agile tools and consultancy services with their Lean Life Canvas, FamBan and the soon-to-be published Awesome Team Canvas.

Claire is delighted to join the Practitioner Board at the Centre for Events and Festivals and actively contribute to the development and dissemination of applied research across the global events sector.

In this new role, Claire is leading on the development of organisational policy and practice for The Power of Events, focusing on creating systems that really work and enable the company to thrive. She continues to lead on research activity using the Event Industry Insights App, working with Excel London, AEME, and EICC amongst others!

Claire is continuing her collaboration with MUTI Live to apply her PhD research to developing an AI-driven simulation tool to cultivate effective decision-making skills in a highly dynamic and immersive experience. Her pedagogic practice provides the cornerstone for the learning structure and scaffolding of the experience.