Karen Cooke: Games maker, show maker and all-round organiser
Few would dispute that when it comes to gaming exhibitions, EAG International, taking place on January 22-24, 2013, at ExCel London, has firmly established its position as a pre-eminent event on the amusements and attractions industry calendar.
Many remain unaware, however, that as the show build-up reaches its climax and exhibitors keenly anticipate the opening, the launch actually represents the culmination of months of hard work on behalf of one woman and of her seasoned team at Swan Events.
Karen Cooke possesses a wealth of industry knowledge gained both as an exhibitor and as an exhibition organiser and exudes a professionalism that can only ever be achieved through years of experience.
Consistently delivering steady growth and positive results for the gaming events she has managed, it was no surprise when EAG International Expo owner BACTA appointed her company, Swan Events, to assume operational responsibility for EAG International Expo. The exhibition’s chairman, Martin Burlin, elaborates: “Karen was a natural choice. Her early career was spent in sales roles in some iconic international gaming supply businesses so she really understands the dynamics of trade shows from an exhibitor perspective. Eleven years ago, Karen crossed the divide and began organising major events for the gaming industry. During that time she has acquired a deep understanding of the needs of her clients and an almost encyclopaedic knowledge of who’s who in the industry.”
This article can be read in full in the November issue of InterGame.
