Richard Walpole

Role

At NTU, Richard delivers a range of career-focused modules, helping students bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application:

• Event Business Administration – Teaching students the financial, operational, and strategic management aspects of running an event-based business, from budgeting to resource allocation.
• Live Event Practice – Providing hands-on learning experiences where students plan, execute, and evaluate real-world live events, developing their project management and problem-solving skills.
• Developing the Practitioner – A professional development module that helps students identify their strengths, build industry connections, and prepare for careers in events through networking, placements, and portfolio development.
• Legal and Economic Frameworks – Covering the legal regulations, health and safety requirements, and economic principles that govern the events industry, ensuring students understand compliance, risk management, and financial sustainability.

Richard is committed to making his teaching interactive and industry-relevant, incorporating case studies, guest speakers, live projects, and site visits to provide students with a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the events sector. His extensive professional network allows him to facilitate valuable internships, work placements, and career opportunities for NTU students.

By combining academic expertise with hands-on industry experience, Richard ensures that his students graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for successful careers in event management, festival production, brand partnerships, and beyond

Career overview

With over 15 years in the events industry, Richard has established himself as a leader in event management, brand partnerships, and live entertainment production.

From launching independent promotions to directing large-scale festivals, his expertise spans strategic planning, sponsorship acquisition, and experiential marketing.

Richard’s journey began with Absolute Energy Agency, a Nottingham-based promotions and event management company that brought live music to some of the city’s most iconic venues. Working with emerging and established artists, he developed a keen eye for artist relations, event logistics, and audience engagement, skills that would shape his future in the industry.

Building on this foundation, Richard took on the role of Promoter & Tour Manager at Thisispulp, where he worked on expanding live events for one of the UK’s fastest-growing retailers. Here, he organised successful tours and events featuring acts like The Blackout and Lacey, blending retail marketing with live entertainment to boost brand visibility.

Richard’s expertise in national event strategy flourished at FR Events Ltd, where he served as National Event Manager. Overseeing multiple fundraising and corporate events across the UK, he honed his skills in large-scale event coordination and sponsorship development, working closely with high-profile clients to deliver impactful experiences.

As Head of Events & Partnerships at Elements Creative Marketing, Richard played a key role in shaping high-profile events such as Nottinghamshire Business Expo, The Great Food & Drink Festivals, and The Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards. His ability to connect brands with audiences through immersive experiences positioned him as a leading force in event marketing.

Beyond his corporate roles, Richard has built a successful career as a Freelance Event Manager, delivering standout festivals and live events, including Nottingham Pride, Flashback Festival, and Woodland Disco Festival and more, working alongside prestigious venues such as Warwick Castle, Wollaton Hall and more.

Today, Richard is best known as the Owner of Gloworm Events Group, who own and operate one of the UK’s leading family festivals ‘Gloworm Festival’ in addition to Light Trails and more. Since 2016, he has transformed Gloworm into a nationally recognised event, securing sponsorships and partnershops from brands like Playmobil, Warner Brothers, Paramount, Organix, IKEA, CBeebies and many more. His leadership ensures Gloworm remains a vibrant celebration of music, creativity, and family entertainment.

Driven by a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, Richard continues to push the boundaries of the events industry, blending innovation, storytelling, and strategic partnerships to bring extraordinary events to life.