Meet Lara

What does a day in the life of Lara look like?

My days often involve a lot of research and reading. An important part of my role as a business analyst is to remain up to date on the latest trends in visitor experience design. Where is the industry moving? What are our competitors are up to? Alongside market research, the business development team is constantly on the lookout for new opportunities. Once we’ve identified interesting projects, the exciting pitch process begins, usually involving timely coordination between strategists, designers, content directors, creative directors and producers to develop a strong and convincing proposal.

The first time's always special. What was your first GSM project?

My very first pitch at GSM was for WOWtopia- a US-based touring festival for young families that combines the physicality of an adventure park, the hands-on interactivity of a maker experience and the awe of a cultural festival. When it comes to pitches, I have to say that the thrilling “rookie” feeling I’ve felt from day one never totally fades. Every project opportunity is unique and pushes our team to explore new avenues, facing new challenges and adapting our approach.

Let's say you could trade jobs with anyone at GSM. Who would it be and why?

If I had to spend a day in the life of anyone at GSM, it would hands-down be CEO Annie Derome. I would love to see what her day entails, and how important business decisions are made. Given her hectic schedule, I would be curious to see how she organizes her time in between emails, meetings, phone calls, still managing to find time to dominate at ping pong.

You're alone on a desert island with one GSM project. Which one, and why?

This is honestly a tough choice. But, given my passion for soccer, I’d say the "Ajax Experience” in Amsterdam - an interactive exhibition dedicated to the legendary Dutch football club AFC Ajax that takes visitors through the team’s perfected training program, recounting first-hand stories from the athletes themselves.