'Never underestimate the power of networking'

Charlotte Oliver, Managing Director, CEO Event Management, talks working in Dubai's hectic events scene

How do you typically start your workday? 
My day must start with tea or nothing gets done! Let's just say I am not much of a morning person. My main task, and often the hardest one, is to get my one-and-a-half-year-old daughter ready for nursery. I have really developed my negotiations skills thanks to her. Then it's straight to the office, meetings or on site at events.  
Describe your work in a sentence. 
'Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get" Working in events for more than 15 years, this quote from the movie Forrest Gump rings very true every day.
One dish that you would love to indulge in after a long day? 
A roast dinner made by my husband.
What is your favourite thing about your job? 
Hiring young, enthusiastic people and teaching them skills that they can later use in their career.  
What advice would you give your younger self, if you could? 
Enjoy life more and don't worry about what tomorrow might bring. It will always work out.
Name a fictional character you think would make for a good role model - and why? 
Elle Woods from Legally Blonde! She wasn't afraid to be herself, never gave up. and wore heels all through.
What has been your most challenging experience to date and how did you resolve it? 
Finding the right people to hire is a real challenge. It took me years and painful mistakes but it is all worth it in the end when you have a hard working team that you can trust 
How do you maintain a work-life balance? 
Owning a business means every day is a challenge ,but I think it starts with being okay about dropping the ball every now and again. Nobody is perfect and you can't beat yourself up about every mistake you make. Taking time out for family is very important for me and I try my best to be in the moment when with them.
Any advice for youngsters just getting into the professional arena? 
Work hard. Have a good balance between listening and talking and never underestimate the power of networking.
What is your greatest dream, professionally? 
Growing the company into a global brand. 
- Staff reporter