Sarah Pugh Email and Phone Number

Multi Award Winning Immersive & Experiential Agency

As Operations Manager at Imagineerium, a dynamic start-up born during the lockdown, I played a pivotal role in overseeing the day-to-day operations of our creative design team based in Bristol. Our team specializes in transforming visions into extraordinary experiences that immerse, inspire, and engage audiences. From brand storytelling to immersive theatre, we are dedicated to crafting impactful visions of the future that foster engagement, evoke emotional connections, and ignite imagination.At Imagineerium, our mission is to create unique and sustainable spaces, guiding projects from conceptualization through to completion. This comprehensive approach encompasses creative and project management, as well as design, fabrication, and installation processes.Key responsibilities in my role as Operations Manager at Imagineerium included:Overseeing day-to-day bookkeeping activities to maintain accurate financial recordsManaging the process of raising invoices and ensuring timely payments from clientsHandling HR and recruitment tasks, including hiring and onboarding new team membersDeveloping and implementing business policies and systems to streamline operations and ensure compliance with regulationsFacilitating creative ideation sessions to generate innovative concepts and ideas for projectsLeading fundraising efforts to secure financial support for projects and initiativesSpearheading business innovation initiatives to drive growth and competitiveness in the marketDeveloping and implementing strategic plans to align business objectives with market trends and opportunitiesIdentifying and capitalizing on emerging technologies and industry trends to enhance business operations and offerings

The Loco Klub, a grassroots arts venue in Bristol, has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception. From its humble beginnings as a dirty, disused space under a temporary lease agreement, it has evolved into a firmly established cornerstone of Bristol's vibrant music, theatre, and arts scene, now in its sixth year of operation.Situated in the former Ash Pits below Temple Meads station, the Loco Klub faced numerous challenges before becoming operational. Despite being a Grade 2 listed structure, it lacked essential infrastructure such as power, toilets, and heating, while also being plagued by dampness and dust. As the driving force behind the project, I spearheaded the effort to transform this underground space into a fully functional and profitable business. This involved a comprehensive range of tasks, including budget management, staff recruitment and training, licensing, health and safety compliance, fire and risk assessments, bar operations, and the implementation of new systems such as wireless fire and CCTV installations.In addition to these operational responsibilities, I took charge of managing bookings and marketing efforts for the venue during its formative years. Through strategic planning and dedicated efforts, we achieved sustainable profitability, allowing us to expand our team to include ten core staff members and a network of freelancers.Key attributes of my role at the Loco Klub include:- Strategic Planning- Budget Management- Fundraising- Staff Recruitment and Training- Licensing Compliance- Health and Safety Management- Fire and Risk Assessments- Bar Operations- Booking Management- Marketing Strategy- New System ImplementationToday, the Loco Klub boasts a diverse and dynamic program of events, attracting acclaimed DJs, bands, theatre shows, operas, orchestras, markets, and fundraisers. This success is a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation in curating memorable experiences for our patrons.

My role with The Invisible Circus has been multifaceted, encompassing a diverse range of responsibilities . In addition to overseeing operations at The Invisible Circus, I have also been entrusted with the management of two key entities: Unit 15, a substantial professional training centre catering to circus and theatre practitioners, and Project 345, a warehouse housing several artist studios.Upon joining the company, I assumed sole responsibility for all aspects of the business. Over the past five years, I have navigated the challenges and opportunities inherent in this role, steering the company towards profitability and sustainability. This journey has involved strategic planning, meticulous budget management, and the recruitment and training of a core team of staff members, as well as the engagement of numerous freelancers.In transforming The Invisible Circus into a thriving business, I have also played a pivotal role in fostering a supportive and vibrant artistic community in Bristol. By providing valuable space and resources, we have nurtured creativity and innovation, enabling artists to flourish and contribute to the cultural fabric of the city.Key attributes of my role at The Invisible Circus include:- Strategic Planning- Budget Management- Staff Recruitment and Training- Facility Management (Unit 15 and Project 345)- Event Coordination- Community Engagement- Financial Analysis- Resource Allocation- Creative Programming- Partnership DevelopmentThrough these efforts, The Invisible Circus has not only achieved financial success but has also become a beacon of creativity and collaboration in Bristol's artistic landscape. As we continue to evolve and grow, I am committed to upholding our mission of supporting and empowering the local artistic community.

In my previous position as Business Manager for the esteemed Bristol-based events company, Arcadia Spectacular, I navigated a demanding and dynamic role alongside the company's directors. Tasked with overseeing day-to-day research and administrative duties, as well as orchestrating business operations, I confronted the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry head-on.During my time at Arcadia, the company experienced significant growth, presenting a host of new complexities and opportunities. As the company expanded, my role evolved accordingly, requiring me to adapt and innovate to meet the demands of a thriving business landscape.Key responsibilities in my role at Arcadia Spectacular included:- Managing ever-changing diaries and schedules- Generating intricate quotes for UK festivals and international events- Handling the complex logistics of bookings, health and safety protocols, and insurance documentation- Overseeing website management and maintenance- Managing accounts, financial systems, including SAGE and VAT complianceMy experience at Arcadia was characterized by a relentless commitment to excellence and a meticulous attention to detail. By seamlessly managing the intricacies of event planning and business operations, I played a pivotal role in driving the company's success and establishing it as a leader in the events industry.As I embark on new opportunities, I carry with me the invaluable experiences and lessons learned from my time at Arcadia Spectacular, shaping my approach to future challenges and endeavors.

● Managing and arranging the intrinsic logistics of each boat, ferry service and trip for each day. Providing fast pragmatic solutions to logistic or operational issues.● Acting as the first point of contact for the MD in both internal and external matters. First point of contact for all staff and responsibility of managing the company in the Directors absence.● Thinking of pragmatic solutions to drive the business forward. Managing the sales & marketing team and delegating and monitoring tasks to develop business.● Successfully leading and managing a team; compiling rotas, managing holiday and sickness cover, health and safety training, Boat Master qualifications, boat safety and general crew training,● Liaising closely with external web developers during multiple phases of our Digital Diary that went live last year. Agreeing on changes towards the website and more specifically the digital diary. Discussing and gaining the best and most effective usability. Agree sign off.● Financial controller. Using SAGE to administer invoices and monitor supplier payments and basic book keeping, debt collecting and budget controlling.● Office Managment