Leeds-based event production company Sparq has promoted Helen Sutcliffe to Creative Director and appointed her to its board as the business expands its creative and full-service production capabilities.
Sutcliffe will lead the company’s creative and marketing teams as a single department, with responsibility for strengthening collaboration and developing new approaches to client projects.
She joined Sparq as an Event Producer in November 2023 and was soon appointed lead producer for the Mayor of London’s Numeracy Roadshow.
The public awareness campaign delivered 52 events across every London borough, each organised in partnership with a local community organisation. Sutcliffe relocated to London for four months to oversee the programme.
She said: “It was a huge undertaking and something I was really proud of. It was incredibly rewarding to be trusted with such a significant project so early in my role.”
Her promotion comes as the Leeds company continues to grow its full-service event production offering alongside its established technical support and audiovisual services.
Sutcliffe’s career has included producing academic conferences, creating visitor experiences for stately homes and developing corporate communications.
In her new role, she will focus on bringing teams together earlier in the development of projects and creating more opportunities for employees across the business to contribute ideas.
She said: “It is important to me that all our departments work together as one team.
“I am excited to have progressed through the company and gained the understanding that allows me to support others while bringing creativity into every part of the business.”
Helen Elam, Joint Managing Director at Sparq, said Sutcliffe had played an important role in shaping the company’s approach to its people and clients.
She said: “Helen’s creativity, passion and commitment have helped shape how we work and how we continue to evolve.
“She is also a passionate advocate for our people, encouraging growth, inspiring confidence and helping colleagues recognise their potential.
“As Sparq continues to grow, we recognised the need for creative leadership at the highest level. Promoting Helen to Creative Director and welcoming her to the board was an easy decision.”
Sparq, which is based in Leeds and previously operated as a trading division of Saville Group, provides event production, technical support and audiovisual services.
