Rising to the challenge
For Daniel, a Senior Account Lead in Perth, a large-scale technology rollout in 2024 stands out as his most memorable event.
“We had six rooms booked every day for three months, with delegates even needing 24-hour access. It was a huge project, but the teamwork between the venue staff and central teams was instrumental in making it all work. The best part was hearing delegates say how happy they were to be at Cliftons. That was a real joy.”
Daniel also remembers moments where he and colleagues turned a challenge into an opportunity. When a client wasn’t satisfied with catering, Daniel and the team worked quickly to put things right. “We listened, empathised, and found a solution. The client appreciated our approach and has since become a regular with us.”
Innovation in action
Raja, our IT and Events Technical Manager in Sydney, has been at the forefront of some exciting firsts. Back in 2013, he helped design a new way of delivering hybrid training that was more flexible and cost-effective than anything in Australia at the time.
“It was the first of its kind here. With months of testing across time zones, and the support of my team, we launched a solution that went on to host hundreds of events across Asia Pacific.”
More recently, when a technical fault threatened an important professional exam, Raja and his colleagues worked through the night with partners in different countries to rebuild everything in time.
“With a ‘whatever it takes’ attitude and such a great team, Cliftons makes everything possible.”
Putting people first
For Nischal, who started as a Venue Manager in Auckland before moving into an Account Lead role, one moment reminded him how important it is to put people first.
When a storm hit Auckland in 2023, he made sure attendees were aware of the danger and got home safely. “Although the event had to end early, people were so thankful we put their safety first,” he says.
And when his team was stretched during a busy period, support came from across the Tasman. “Sydney provided remote help, and a colleague from Wellington flew over to pitch in. It really showed me how connected we are as a company, no matter where we’re based.”
Grit and determination
Jordan, who spent five years in our Perth venue, still remembers the night the lights went out – literally.
During a major exam event, a sudden power outage left an entire floor unusable. With only hours to spare, the team faced two options: postpone the exams or rebuild everything on a different floor.
“Nobody went home. Nobody complained. We worked through the night with help from colleagues across the country. At 3am we finished, and a few hours later the exams went ahead without a hitch. The candidates never knew how close it came to being cancelled. I’ve never been prouder of the team.”
Creativity and fun
Anna, a Senior Account Lead for Exam Solutions in Sydney, has seen Cliftons spaces transform countless times to suit clients’ needs.
“No two days are the same. I’ve watched our venues become personalised spaces for clients’ brand experiences, and I’ve loved being part of that journey – from planning through to the event day.”
She’s also passionate about exams, where the stakes are high for candidates. “People have often studied for years for this one chance. We create a calm, professional environment so they can focus. Our team is like a well-oiled machine, and that precision really matters.”
Of course, it’s not all serious. Some of Anna’s fondest memories are of team-building activities like pasta-making classes led by Cliftons’ chefs. “It was full of laughter and the food wasn’t bad either!”
What these moments show
Across regions, roles and responsibilities, one thing comes through clearly: our people don’t just work at Cliftons – they create experiences that matter. Whether it’s supporting a colleague across the ditch, rebuilding an exam overnight, or transforming a venue for a client, everyone has a part to play.
That’s what Creating Remarkable Experiences, Together really means.
It’s why we’ve reached 500,000 events and why we’re excited for the next half million.
Interested in joining us?
At Cliftons, no two days are the same. You’ll be part of a supportive team that celebrates innovation, adapts to challenges, and makes a difference to clients.
Explore careers with Cliftons and discover how you can help create the next remarkable experience. 🔗Learn more
