Like many leaders in the live events industry, Al Woods is not someone who grew up with designs on climbing the corporate ladder and conquering the business world. However, through a career built on hard work, loyalty and dedication, this self-confessed failed musician turned audio engineer now finds himself in a position of seniority in a global organisation, leading the UAE location of Clair Global, and working very closely with its KSA team. “Back when I was loading my drum kit into my dad’s car for my first gigs all those years ago, I could never have imagined that I’d make a career out of this industry let alone what I do now,” he told TPiMEA.
In this First Look interview, he reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his path – from European tours and muddy festival fields to the halcyon days of Dubai’s fledgeling live events scene, Expo 2020, and ultimately playing a big part in launching Clair in the region – while offering a candid take on leadership, team culture, the realities of an evolving global events industry, and his love of playing golf (badly).
Photos: Clair Global
