Rising Stars: Erin Hutton & Jade Walters in CN 30underThirty 2026
We’re incredibly proud to see Erin Hutton and Jade Walters recognised in the Conference News 30underThirty Class of 2026 - an initiative that celebrates young event professionals already making a real impact through creativity, commitment, and ambition. This list shines a spotlight on the next generation of leaders shaping the UK events industry, and Erin and Jade more than deserve their place.
It’s been a year of high-stakes delivery.
Erin stepped in at the last minute to join the UK Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, taking a central role in UK National Day - a site-wide programme with parades, large-scale events, and even a mini music festival. Her contribution was so significant she stayed for an additional four weeks, supporting the Welsh Government Sponsorship, Shaun the Sheep’s 30th Birthday, and the Festival of Flavours.
Back in the UK, she continued to deliver complex international projects remotely, including a six-session Aston Martin event for a non-English-speaking client and still nailed it.
“Erin came in and took on challenging clients, supporting delivery in a completely new venue where all usual processes went out the window”
Senior Event Manager, Emily Tolley
Delivering precision and calm on HMS Richmond
In September, with the Prime Minister and Defence Minister on a historic tour of India, Bray Leino Events was given an unusual brief. The HMS Richmond would be docking in the Port of Mumbai in just 20 days, and the UK government wanted to host a VVIP reception on deck. Short on time, our best team was sent to make it happen.
Jade Walters proved herself under extraordinary pressure, managing guest access for 500+ VVIPs. With port security tighter than ever, she coordinated approvals from eight separate officials to ensure the event ran flawlessly.
“It was like being in a Bond film at times. Under extremely difficult circumstances, Jade did herself and the team proud.”
Event Director, Kate Middleton
