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The dmg lowdown

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FUN IN THE SUN THE FIRST DMG SPORT AND SOCIAL CLUB EVENT {Page 4} CONTENTS lowdown the dmg Connecting People, Creating Communities, Facilitating Business issue 2, july 2010 Fun in the sun 20 Questions It’s all a load of balls Magic fingers The Chuckles Corner Sorry I’m on conference Conference Comments DMG Team on target Pat yourselves on the back Hidden talents Cultural Corner Ray’s World HR Corner Trading Space IT Tips Birthdays, Engagements, Etc. Guess Who MIDDLE EAST EDITION From the Editor Regular comments from this DMG newbie on life in Dubai and in general. {Page 2} B ig 5 recently managed to secure one of the prestigious awards at the Middle East Event Awards during a gala evening attended by over 600 event organizers and venue staff from throughout the region. The awards have been ongoing for the past three years and during that time we have secure two awards. The first of which was the lifetime award winner in the first ever year of the awards in 2008, which was presented to our very own Bernard Walsh. The tale of the Big 5 award started way back on October 2009, a full month before the November event. At the time we had been working hard to manage the impact of the recession and during a team lunch we agreed that if as a team we’d secure one final revenue target pre-show, I’d agree to enter the team for the Trade Show of the year Award the following April. At the time I felt that if we could reach the target we’d have a good chance of securing the award. No event had at that time ever filled the new hall at DWTC and in a recession we felt that was noteworthy. With the target met, I had the promise to deliver on. With the help of the Fifth Ring team and some market research and web trawling we gathered our case, in fact five cases. Trade Show of the Year, Marketing campaign of the year, Green Award entry and finally young achievers awards for Salman and Sarah. Once the nominations were confirmed, as a team we delighted in the fact we secured three final shortlist nominations, Trade show of the year, marketing campaign and the green award. The event was a fun night, hosted at the Madinat, with all the Big 5 team in attendance in their best suits, black tie and cocktail dresses for the ladies. In the end we failed to secure two of the nominations, losing out the DWTC and the F1 racing event, but we were very proud to have been named as the leading event in the Green environment category. In 2009 the team launched the Gaia awards for green building products at Big 5, created an educational green feature for visitors with a presentation theatre and invested in projects in India to secure the events status as a carbon neutral event. So a promise made became a promise kept. A promise made 4 6 8 10 11 12 14 16 18 20 21 23 24 Big 5 Winners, at the Middle East Event Awards Contributed by Simon Mellor 25 24 25 {Page 3} 22
Transcript
Page 1: The dmg lowdown

FUN IN THE SUNThe firsT DMG sporT anD

social club evenT{Page 4}

CONTENTS

lowdownthe dmg Connecting People, Creating Communities, Facilitating Businessissue 2, july 2010

Fun in the sun 20 Questions

It’s all a load of balls

Magic fingersThe Chuckles CornerSorry I’m onconference

Conference Comments

DMG Team on target

Pat yourselves on the back

Hidden talentsCultural Corner

Ray’s WorldHR CornerTrading SpaceIT Tips

Birthdays, Engagements, Etc.

Guess Who

MID

DLE

EA

ST

ED

ITIO

N

From the EditorRegular comments from this DMG newbie on life in Dubai and in general. {Page 2}

Big 5 recently managed to secure one of the prestigious awards at the Middle East Event Awards during a gala evening attended

by over 600 event organizers and venue staff from throughout the region. The awards have been ongoing for the past three years and during that time we have secure two awards. The first of which was the lifetime award winner in the first ever year of the awards in 2008, which was presented to our very own Bernard Walsh.

The tale of the Big 5 award started way back on October 2009, a full month before the November event. At the time we had been working hard to manage the impact of the recession and during a team lunch we agreed that if as a team we’d secure one final revenue target pre-show, I’d agree to enter the team for the Trade Show of the year Award the following April. At the time I felt that if we could reach the target we’d have a good chance of securing the award. No event had at that time ever filled the new hall at DWTC and in a recession we felt that was noteworthy.

With the target met, I had the promise to deliver

on. With the help of the Fifth Ring team and some market research and web trawling we gathered our case, in fact five cases. Trade Show of the Year, Marketing campaign of the year, Green Award entry and finally young achievers awards for Salman and Sarah. Once the nominations were confirmed, as a team we delighted in the fact we secured three final shortlist nominations, Trade show of the year, marketing campaign and the green award.

The event was a fun night, hosted at the Madinat, with all the Big 5 team in attendance in their best suits, black tie and cocktail dresses for the ladies. In the end we failed to secure two of the nominations, losing out the DWTC and the F1 racing event, but we were very proud to have been named as the leading event in the Green environment category. In 2009 the team launched the Gaia awards for green building products at Big 5, created an educational green feature for visitors with a presentation theatre and invested in projects in India to secure the events status as a carbon neutral event.

So a promise made became a promise kept.

A promise made4

6

8

10

11

12

14

16

18

20

21

23

24

Big 5 Winners, at the Middle East Event Awards

Contributed by Simon Mellor

25

24

25

{Page 3}

22

Page 2: The dmg lowdown

EditorGary Robinson

Design Kamil Roxas

Guest ContributorsJitesh GorodiaWill Rankin

ContributorsIan StokesRay TinstonCraig PerryPremila BraganzaSimon MellorPhil Davies

Well , the latest issue of Lowdown finally makes it to your desks. Phew!! Sorry for the delay! The original idea, perhaps optimistically, was to try and get an issue onto everyone’s desk every month (as they say, “all well laid plans” are doomed to fail! Perhaps for the future we’ll go with the flow. What hampered me was that there was so much going on (in particular The Hotel Show and FM Expo) it’s been a pretty busy time for many of us. At least these teams now have time to take a little stock of their lives again, pat themselves deservedly on the back for a job well done under difficult circumstances and start the process all over again for next year!

Having been in Dubai only 6 months (not much compared to many of you) it has been my mission (especially as my wife has now joined me) to do some real exploring of Dubai and the region and really get into what is on offer. In essence I had saved up a lot of planned experiences until my better half arrived so we could share them, “How romantic” I hear the girls exclaim! Well we have certainly been packing in our activities over the past 3 months to catch up. These have included teaching my wife to drive (or rather selfishly getting her to learn to drive the golf cart when I have a round with Mr Mellor! A little safer at least initially!) to off-roading in Oman, a romantic dinner on the Bateaux Boat (for her Birthday) to Ice skating (Dubai Mall), Snow Skiing (Mall of Emirates), 10 pin Bowling , Lord of the Dance (Adnec) etc etc. There is certainly no shortage of things to do here even during the heat of the summer. Apart from country walks in the Dorset countryside with my faithful springer spaniel on a frosty autumn morning there is little I really miss about the home country. We are in many ways so privileged to be living and working in such a diverse and interesting part of the world. Lest we forget!

Before I came to live in Dubai, many of my friends told me that there is a lack of soul here in this artificial metropolis we live in, and to a certain degree they’re right! It’s difficult to find a soul in something so new and constantly changing. However Dubai and the UAE has a vibrant energy (regardless of the world financial crisis) and a desire to continue to move forward and develop and I find that intoxicating! I sense a renewed optimism. Maybe we all simply needed to take stock for a moment and review our professional and personal expectations and realize just how lucky we are, even if we feel we have a little less than we had before!

As regards the soul of this area? I did discover it eventually. Out in the deserts and mountains of this amazing region.

from the editor

welcome

We are in many ways so

privileged to be living and

working in such a diverse and

interesting part of the world.

02 | the dmg lowdown Connecting People, Creating Communities, Facilitating Business

Page 3: The dmg lowdown

the dmg lowdown | 03

Head of the committee Craig Perry – Dubai Office

Committee secretary Majella O’Brien – Dubai Office

Committee member Abu Ismail – Abu Dhabi

Committee member Leila Gallow – Reflex

Committee member account Amanda Roberts

Greetings fellow dmg’ers, I trust we are all well. Hopefully you will have seen the Karaoke email for the next event… now hurry up and respond! Two options: Yes or No. Simple. Any no’s will be met with a witty retort so you’d best have a good reason!

As we move closer to Ramadan we’d love to organise a gathering, preferably with some remnant

of traditionalism during the fasting period. If you or anyone you know suggests something, please step up and speak. This committee will only work as well as the feedback and input we receive.

After the success of the first ever dmg quiz night, we are considering making this a monthly event with proper teams, leaderboards and potential to win BIG PRIZES. Like the sound of that? Come and let me know and we’ll hopefully get this going in September. So singing in July, Ramadan shenanigans, quiz championships AND something extra special heading your way towards the end of the year (terms & conditions apply)… more on that later.

Charity is also on the list of issues we are dealing with at the moment and it is our intention to appoint an ‘official charity’ of dmg for at least the next 12 months. This will provide a chance to give something back and get involved with the more soul-cleansing side of life. Definitely a great opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives.

That’s it for now, and remember the Karaoke bonanza is fast approaching… and I know we’re all looking forward to Simon’s performance of ‘It’s Raining Men’ aren’t we?!

Final point, I am delighted to announce that Leila Gallow from the Reflex marketing team will be joining the S&S committee. Welcome Leila!

Craig Perrydmg Sports & Social Club Chairman

The next Sports and Social event will be a karaoke night on either the 28th or 29th July which is post-payday. The venue is likely to be in Deira, The Majestic Hotel.

Page 4: The dmg lowdown

FEATURE

Over 50 people from dmg took to the sands for a Desert Safari. And the first event in what will surely be a hectic dmg Sports and Social Club calendar

proved a great success.

Excitement was high as a convoy of 4x4s left JLT on a warm Thursday afternoon, and it wasn’t long before tyres were deflated, moods were elated and we turned our backs on Dubai and headed into the sand. There were screams aplenty as our (hopefully) expert drivers took us on a gravity –defying route, with more twists and turns than Defence roundabout. While one car suffered a tyre blowout; the incident came as a welcome rest stop for some of the team, who looked slightly green. Sunset in the desert is always a treat, and there were photos aplenty.

Darkness was falling as we hit the desert camp, where Ian Stokes mysteriously disappeared, only to return a few minutes later wearing a dishdasha!

After some brave souls had a go at camel riding and sand boarding, it was time to hit the foaming beverages and watch a belly dancer. A few of the dmg boys and girls put her to shame, especially Stephen from Reflex with his pink shorts, and stick balancing act. More timid members of the team tried to hide from the belly dancer behind a cloud of sheesha smoke up one corner of the camp, while others suddenly became very interested in falconry as she scanned the camp for victims/volunteers to join her on stage for a truffle shuffle.

Good ideas often spring from work social events and someone very wise suggested, after seeing some of the finest dance moves since Saturday Night Fever, that dmg should launch a new event – DANCE 2011. The power of team work also came into play, when, at the end of the night, everyone refused to let the DJ finish playing, and while he reluctantly played another track, nothing could stop some of the die-hard dancers of dmg. Until he put Jive Bunny on.

FUN IN THE SUN

04 | the dmg lowdown

Contributed by Will Rankin

Page 5: The dmg lowdown

the dmg lowdown | 05

Page 6: The dmg lowdown

Jennifer MooreMarketing Manager, Abu Dhabi Office

FEATURE

Q1. What is your job within dmg::events?Marketer and general teas maid.Q2. Who is your boss and what do you like most about your job?My fiancé! Q3. What single thing would make your job easier?A teas maid.Q4 Where do you live and do you have a family here?Unfortunately / fortunately (depending how you look at it) my family live all over the world: Portugal, Macau, UK. I still have the best address though: The Palm.Q5 Where were you born and what are your spiritual beliefs?Bonnie Scotland. As a Sagittarius I am best when Venus is ascending, apparently.Q6 What is your favorite animal and why?Eagle. I always dream that I can fly.Q7 What are your passions/hobbies. Food. Cooking. Eating out. Sailing will soon be a new hobby, tennis, hiking, exploring. And reducing my current Wii Fit age…Q8 Favorite Colour? Grey. Things are never black and white.Q9 What time did you go to bed last nightNone of your business!Q10 Who is your hero/heroin?I am inspired by lots of people, but don’t have a hero. I’m far too pragmatic – everyone has their faults!

Q12 What Star sign are you?As aboveQ13 Favorite place in DubaiStill discovering Dubai since the move from Abu Dhabi….but the Lime Tree Café on Jumeirah Beach Road is rating highly due to their carrot cake.Q14 Best Holiday outside of DubaiCuba for the untouched aspect, with Vietnam a close second…. for the fabulous food.Q15 Which do you prefer, Dressing up or down? Getting ready for a special occasion is half of the fun of dressing up. Q16 What did you eat for dinner last night?Hammour Thai styleQ17 What do you want to be when you grow up?That seems too far away…Q18 What did your parents want you to be when you grew up!?Female 007 – still working on it.Q19 Favorite meal?Too many to choose from, but if I had to choose it would be beef wellington and potato gratinQ20 What do you like most about yourself?My cooking!

What’s this?20 questions!!?

06 | the dmg lowdown

Q11 Favorite MovieThe Princess Bride and the Monty Python films – I am still quoting them years after watching them.

Connecting People, Creating Communities, Facilitating Business

Page 7: The dmg lowdown

Q1. What is your job within dmg::events?Everybody should know by now that I am the voice of dmg world media.. Just kidding, but everyone should know that I am the Receptionist in the Dubai office.Q2. Who is your boss and what do you like most about your job?My boss is the fabulous Majella- couldn’t ask for anyone better. I like the fact that I pretty much get to know everyone in all the offices, I get to communicate with all the lovely people that work here! Q3. What single thing would make your job easier?No Phones!!! Q4 Where do you live and do you have a family here?I live in an apartment in The Greens. My dad, my step mum and boyfriend live in Dubai too. But I still miss all my family back home! Q5 Where were you born and what are your spiritual beliefs?I was born in Essex, England and I don’t really know if I have any spiritual beliefs or not.. that’s a tough one! Q6 What is your favorite animal and why?My favorite animal will have to be a horse, I had one when I was younger and used to go riding all the time! Oh and I love Pug’s as well, I really want a dog but my boyfriend won’t let me!

hayley englandReceptionist, Dubai JLT Office

Q8 Favorite Colour?Hmmmm my favourite colour at the moment is green, I do keep changing my mind though! Q9 What time did you go to bed last nightI went to bed at about 11pm, I was watching some crime program, in fact it was so real that it freaked me out and I couldn’t sleep!Q10 Who is your hero/heroin?I would probably have to say my dad, we have been through quite a lot over the last few years so I look up to him and respect him a lot.Q11 Favorite MovieAnything with Johnny Depp in, Oh and I like a movie you can have a good cry too like beaches or the notebook..and any good chick flick! Q12 What Star sign are you?I am a Pisces! Q13 Favorite place in DubaiGoing for afternoon tea at the Burj Al Arab for my birthday was a pretty awesome experience.Q14 Best Holiday outside of DubaiBest holiday would have to be touring around America with my family, I was very lucky to have seen so many places in such a little time! Q15 Which do you prefer, Dressing up or down?There’s nothing like dressing up, getting your makeup and hair done! It makes you feel good! Q16 What did you eat for dinner last night?I had Nando’s, very naughty I know! Q17 What do you want to be when you grow up?I would love to run my own Stables, have lots of horses and live in the countryside! Q18 What did your parents want you to be when you grew up!?My mum would always joke about what she wanted me and my brothers to be when we grew up, think she wanted me to be a solicitor! Q19 Favorite meal?Roast Dinner, can’t beat a nice carvery. Q20 What do you like most about yourself?I guess I like that I have quite a bubbly personality and that I get on with people really well. It’s a good gift to have to be able to make friends easily.

Q7 What are your passions/hobbiesI like to travel and visit new countries and explore different cultures, so my passion would be to see as much of the world as possible, there’s so many wonderful places to see.

the dmg lowdown | 07

Page 8: The dmg lowdown

FEATURE

Founder and publisher of Pipeline, Eileen Michael, is moving on from the region’s leading energy title.

“It’s been a wild ride,” said Eileen, who launched the magazine 14 years ago.

Eileen first came to the Middle East and Dubai in 1992, as publisher of a range of computer titles. After four years of success and reputation building as a hard business negotiator, her thoughts turned to a new industry – energy.

Back in 1996, it was Eileen’s energy, drive and enthusiasm at the magazine’s launch that made Pipeline in to the well-respected and well-read title it is today.

“I was very much a woman in a man’s world,” said the Scottish entrepreneur, “but I think I gained the respect of a great many leading companies in this region by being persistent and never taking no for an answer.”

MD of Dubai integrated communications firm Fifth Ring, Cliff Collier, said: “Most of us can’t really imagine what Dubai was like when she first

It’s all a Load of Balls!

08 | the dmg lowdown

Contributed by Will Rankin

Connecting People, Creating Communities, Facilitating Business

Page 9: The dmg lowdown

FEATURE

arrived here 18 years ago. And for a woman, being able to break into what certainly was a male dominated business marketplace in those days, only serves to demonstrate the strength and depth of character Eileen possesses. There are too few Eileen Michaels’ in Dubai. Many people come and go here without contributing anything and leave no positive evidence of their passing through.”

Often fighting a seemingly uphill battle, Eileen developed Pipeline from a journal into a stylish publication worthy of the newsstands.

“First and foremost, we launched new magazine sections looking at such things as technology, computing, and the environment – as industry needs changed.”“Secondly, we took on board the desires of the industry and launched the ball, the golf days and the excellence in energy awards.”

The Excellence in Energy Awards launched in 2002, followed by the first Oil Barons Ball in 2003. The first OBB was proudly sponsored by ADNOC, who were somewhat dismayed on the night to discover alcohol being served and live music. Never one to shirk from adversity, the Reflex team organised for drinks to be served from behind

a screen and the advertising hoardings were turned around when the band started.

Pipeline’s sister magazine, Future Fuels, was launched in 2006, endorsed by the Qatari oil minister.

By 2007, the first Alternative Energy Awards were launched, followed by a European edition of the now legendary Oil Barons Ball in Eileen’s hometown of Aberdeen. “I’ve seen a great deal of the world promoting Pipeline and the events,” said Eileen, who has never lost her Scottish accent or, seemingly, her ability to shout.

Her hard work and tough attitude were transferred to charity fundraising in recent years, after a realisation that the predominantly rich ex-pat crowd at the events could provide a great source of charity income – via auctions and suchlike.

“I’m enormously proud of Reflex, of Pipeline, Future Fuels and the events, but I think what really makes me realise I’ve managed to make a difference here is all the money we managed to raise – which amounts to more than a million dirhams for charity through the events. I hope the Reflex spirit of combining good business with fun events and charity fundraising long continues.”

the dmg lowdown | 09

Page 10: The dmg lowdown

FEATURE

Hidden away in a dark corner of Reflex Publishing are the incredible Roxas Brothers, Kamil and Glenn, designers of Pipeline, posters, adverts and collateral that blows the socks off other company’s offerings. The Philippinos are not only creative from 9-5, but also outside work. Kamil – ‘Roxy’, the elder of the brothers, is an award-winning film-maker, talented photographer and general expert pixel wielder. Here, he answers a few questions about his life and work.

Where are you from? Where did you do your graphic design training?Iligan City, Philippines. I had an early stint with graphic design when I was in high school. How long have you been here in the UAE? How long at Pipeline?Three years now. Two at Pipeline. How is it working with each other? What’s the age difference? Why don’t you ever beat each other up like me and my brother would, if we worked together?It is part fantastic and part weird in a lot of ways. I’m two years older than Glenn. Glenn would usually just copy my design approach, I use to laugh at him for that, but I guess he became so good at it that I gave way and just veered off into another design direction. Where did you get all your creative skills from? Where you born with it, or was it taught?It pretty much runs in the family. We are a long line of painters, writers and photographers. Roxy, tell us about your photography and film making…what’s your inspiration?I have always been a visual storyteller. I think graphic design as a profession always pushes you further out, suddenly you are doing photography and the next thing you know you are dabbling in the moving images of film. I have since gone on to get a diploma at the New York Film Academy, which I am still waiting to put to good use. How did you get involved in that recent photo exhibition at DUCTAC? Can you tell us a bit more?I have already been part of a few photo exhibits since coming to Dubai. I use to maintain a blog of pictures taken in Dubai using film - that is when I was first invited to do a group exhibit with other film photographers. I get invited to take part photo exhibits every now and again.

And what about your film? Tell us about that – the one about empowering Filipino women? That was my most recent film project. It was a documentary about the stereotyping of Filipino women overseas and how they can break away from it. I was invited to write and direct that documentary, spent a good few months shooting and editing before it finally had a premiere screening at the Emirates Towers. Good times! Who is more creative? Do you feed off each other?It’s all about ideas. I have come to a point where I can almost instantly make something of a blank canvas.

What’s your dream?An Academy Award in the next five years Where would you like to be in five years?Chasing film festivals the world over.

Magic fingers

TOP: Kamil Roxas receives his award for best short film during the Middle East International Film Festival in Abu Dhabi. ABOVE: Photo taken in film via redscale process.

10 | the dmg lowdown

Contributed by Will Rankin

Connecting People, Creating Communities, Facilitating Business

Page 11: The dmg lowdown

The Chuckles Corner

Dear all,Many of these quotes from the legendary Tommy Cooper have done the rounds many times before but they’re always worth another giggle.

A waiter asks a man, ‘May I take your order, sir?’‘Yes,’ the man replies. ‘I’m just wondering, exactly how do you prepare your chickens?’ ‘Nothing special, sir. We just tell them straight out that they’re going to die.

A blind bloke walks into a shop with a guide dog. He picks the Dog up and starts swinging it around his head. Alarmed, a shop assistant calls out: ‘Can I help, sir?’ ‘No thanks,’ says the blind bloke. ‘Just looking.’

I met the bloke who invented crosswords today.I can’t remember his name, it’s P something T something R.

A woman tells her doctor, ‘I’ve got a bad back.’ The doctor says, ‘It’s old age.’ The woman says, ‘I want a second opinion.’ The doctor says: ‘Okay - you’re ugly as well.’

I went into a shop and I said, ‘Can someone sell me a kettle?’ The bloke said ‘Kenwood’ I said, ‘Where is he then?’

Police arrested two kids yesterday, one was drinking battery acid, the other was eating fireworks. They charged one and let the other one off.

I went in to a pet shop. I said, ‘Can I buy a goldfish?’ The guy said, ‘Do you want an aquarium?’ I said, ‘I don’t care what star sign it is.

So he said ‘I’m going to chop off the bottom of one of your trouser legs and put it in a library.’ I thought ‘That’s a turn-up for the books.’

You know, somebody actually complimented me on my driving today. They left a little note on the windscreen, it said ‘Parking Fine.’

So I was getting into my car, and this bloke says to me “Can you give me a lift?” I said “Sure, you look great, the world’s your oyster, go for it.”

Two cannibals eating a clown. One says to the other “Does this taste funny to you?”

A man goes into the doctors. The doctor says, ‘Go over to the window and stick your tongue out.’ Man says, Why? The doctor says, ‘I don’t like my neighbours’

I went up into the attic and found a Stradivarius and a Rembrandt. Unfortunately Stradivarius was a terrible painter and Rembrandt made lousy violins

Sometimes I drink my whiskey neat. Other times I take my tie off and leave my shirt out.

the dmg lowdown | 11

Contributed by Phil Davies

Page 12: The dmg lowdown

FEATURE

“Sorry I’m on conference!”On Thursday 29th April, dmg::events held its first ever and much anticipated company wide conference at the Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa.

A hotel recently got taken over by the full dmg : : events team, when a company conference was held at the Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa

Entitled ‘Think Differently – Do Differently’, the event was a chance to share the future vision for dmg :: events, to talk to work mates and to understand the company, its workings and its structure.

With an overarching theme of ‘grow faster’, senior management took the staff through the plan – to double business across all sectors in the next five years.

As Ian put it: “The single message is – our aim in the next five years is to grow the business from $60 million to $120 million. Our aim was to try and provide some time away from our day-to-day environment to be able to reflect on our business together, share some ideas and start to think about how we grow our business going forward.”

“This will be a day where we try and share some information about our current business activities, chat about global, local and regional market trends and opportunities – but also a day where we will actively need your involvement,” he said as his opening statement to the conference.

Everyone was expected to take an active and involved role, and as dmg :: events is not a company renowned for its shrinking violets, the day proved to be lively, fun and a learning experience for everyone too!

“It presented a wonderful opportunity to present ideas and convey simple messages as well as challenge and engage the minds of staff,” said Simon Mellor.

The day was very much a ‘hands-on’, with the company’s 75-plus staff split across twelve tables, each comprising a mix of divisions and sectors to ensure as

much interaction as possible.

“So many internal conference programmes comprise endless presentations by senior staff and fail to generate any real interaction. We felt this interaction was an essential element of what we wanted to do. As a result we managed content in such as way as to ensure a large part of the day was directed towards breakout sessions and working in small teams. There is always risk in such strategies but it was one that we felt was the right solution and likely to generate the best feedback,” said Ian.

A key element of the day was to create a new, impactful mission statement. Each table was tasked with generating a statement in just an hour.

“The quality of the work in just one hour was impressive, and almost every table delivered a possible consideration for the final mission statement,” said Simon Mellor.

12 | the dmg lowdown

Contributed by Simon Mellor and Will Rankin

Connecting People, Creating Communities, Facilitating Business

Page 13: The dmg lowdown

Following the conference the list of suggestions was offered to staff to vote on their preferred choice. Four offerings performed strongly. Those four statements were posted around the business in recent weeks, with voting taking place once more. With a final tweak to the copy we arrived at a final winner: “Connecting people, Creating communities, Facilitating business.”

Those on the winning team of Amy Linney, David Drake, Salman Abou Hamzeh, Julia Juettner, Sunita Khatri all received an engraved Mont Blanc pen for their efforts. Well done, guys.

Another important element of the day was a lively debate over ideas to improve the business. Each team had to come up with just two ideas and present them

to the whole staff. The ideas generated were creative and well constructed; and have now been captured and are being implemented.

There was also a session to set business and personal goals, which highlighted some interesting and innovative ideas, from both perspectives, and a frank and forthright Q&A with Ian.

In the evening, staff enjoyed an informal buffet/ barbeque, and a ‘pub quiz’.

the dmg lowdown | 13

“Connecting people, Creating communities, Facilitating business.”

Page 14: The dmg lowdown

FEATURE

Majella O’Brien (PA to Ian Stokes) “The highlight

for me was the interaction between staff and management. The conference definitely opened the communication lines and this

showed in the amazing answers that were given for the mission statements and the ‘Ideas for the future’ feedback. The day resulted firstly in all staff knowing the management’s future plans of expanding the company significantly over the coming years, while staff voiced their opinions in how things would run more smoothly for them and their teams.”

Tina Quraishi (The Hotel Show Team)“I found the conference very motivating and informative. As a relatively new employee, I now have

an idea of the company’s history and what exactly the company has in mind when it talks about future plans.“This conference was an excellent

idea as it made everyone aware of their personal and professional goals. And so we will now start seeing more streamlined efforts towards achieving them. I loved the bit when we had to brainstorm collectively and come up with a new slogan for dmg :: events. The room was alive and you could actually feel it in the air. I am so looking forward to the exciting new changes within the company following the conference.”

CONFERENCE COMMENTS

Amy Linney (Reflex Publishing Team)“I think the conference was valuable from my point of view, working at Reflex, as a chance to see the bigger picture, understand where the company is heading in the next five years and to get to know more of the dmg team. After the day I was left feeling very positive about dmg, Dubai and my work, despite the hangover…”

14 | the dmg lowdown Connecting People, Creating Communities, Facilitating Business

Page 15: The dmg lowdown

David Wilson (Product Development Director, Office and FM Team)

The real thing for me was the realisation of the sheer level of talent and passion that exists within our business. The brainstorming sessions demonstrated this perfectly as well as the importance of investing and developing the teams we have. What was also evident during the evening and team events was that we have something most companies die for, a strong team spirit. Its strong and it will take us

a long way to achieving the top line objectives of the business.

the dmg lowdown | 15

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FEATURE

The day before our company wide conference the management team of dmg:events got together in Jebel Ali for their own day of presentations and planning for the future. To end the day (and perhaps get rid of some frustrations of the day) the team all got the chance to shoot the hell out of some innocent and unsuspecting pieces of cardboard at the Jebel Ali Gun Club. Everyone got their chance to try out their aims using both 22 caliber target pistols and the more powerful 9mm semi automatic handguns. What was particularly disturbing as time went on was how well the ladies of the group took to the task (don’t

upset them too much eh!). However the men eventually prevailed (although at both ends of the spectrum) with Shubir Khattau taking the top prize, after a shoot off with Gemma Price who came second, Lu Buchanan taking 3rd prize after a shoot off with Hifazat Ahmed by plugging an amazing bullseye with her one and only shot! The “Best of the Worst” Award went to a well deserved Phil Davis who seemed to have been suffering from the DT’s claiming someone had spiked his coffee during the day!! Great fun for all and perhaps something that could be organized again for the future.

DMG Team n Target!

Simon Mellor or rather his impersonation of Mussolini! Nick Ratcliffe Andy White

Sharp Shooter Team

16 | the dmg lowdown Connecting People, Creating Communities, Facilitating Business

Page 17: The dmg lowdown

And the winner is Shibir Khattau Ian Stokes

Hifazat Ahmad David Drake Lu Buchanan

3rd Place Lu Buchanan Runner up Gemma Price Best of the worst, Phil Davis Michael Dawes

Adrian Kershaw How do you wear these!!! David Wilson & Simon Mellor

the dmg lowdown | 17

Paula Al Chami

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FEATURE

The global downturn seemed to be no deterrent for decision makers as they checked out the Middle East’s premier hospitality exhibition in their droves – with a five per cent increase in visitors year-on-year. Exhibitors at The Hotel Show 2010 praised the quality of visitors, reporting a high volume of potential business leads.

The three-day exhibition, which took place at Dubai World Trade Centre between 18-20 May, was opened by HE Khalid bin Sulayem, Director General at the Dubai Government’s, Tourism & Commerce Marketing Department.

“Considering the global downturn, a

five per cent increase in visitor numbers is a great achievement for The Hotel Show 2010. This year continues to be tough for many exhibitors and visitors alike as budgets are heavily scrutinised but their attendance at The Hotel Show 2010 – and plans to return next year – is testament to the continuing strength of the exhibition,” Ray Tinston, Sales Director of The Hotel Show, said.

“Many exhibitors reported making good contacts and going away from the show with a number of positive leads, which is encouraging in this environment and points towards a recovery in the hospitality industry.”

Companies from more than 35 nations joined 130 exhibitors from the UAE, filling six halls at Dubai World Trade Centre. Overall, the show welcomed 363 exhibitors.

A VIP Lounge offered networking opportunities to more than 250 top delegates and key buyers throughout the show.

Another edition to the show was Associations Meetings, which saw the Housekeepers Association, Emirates Culinary Guild (ECG), Front Office Managers and Spa Professionals all hold their monthly meetings at the venue.

Pat yourselves on the backdmg :: events has a lot to be happy about after another two knockout shows – the Hotel Show and FM Expo.

18 | the dmg lowdown

H.E. Khalid bin Sulayem, Director General of The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, opens The Hotel Show and FM Expo held at the DWTC.

Connecting People, Creating Communities, Facilitating Business

Page 19: The dmg lowdown

Meanwhile, the FM Expo (Facilities Management) event saw an impressive 21 per cent increase in footfall. Opened by His Excellency Khaled Bin Sulayem, Director General of Dubai Tourism, Commerce and Marketing, the Expo attracted a record 4,788 visitors from 27 countries.

Mike Allsopp said: “This year’s FM Expo surpassed all expectations and has now set the bar higher for next year, when we will return with an even bigger exhibition. Having recently taken over the event management from Streamline, we now have a full

time team to ensure we build closer ties with industry stakeholders and deliver an exhibition that supports and promotes the importance facilities management in the Middle East.”

Of the 47 exhibitors who attended this year’s show in March, 60% have already re-booked, with all exhibitors saying the event delivered the right type of buyers, 21% of which had more than $1 million to spend.

Running in conjunction with the FM Expo was the Property and FM Conference, also organised by dmg::

events, which reported a similar success with delegate packages sold out for the launch announcement of MEFMA (Middle East Facilities Management Association).

MEFMA - the Middle East Facilities Management Association – was initiated by the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) – and has the power to support and promote best practice in an industry which is thought to be worth over $4.2 billion across the Middle East.

the dmg lowdown | 19

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FEATURE

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Phil Davis, dmg :: event’s process supremo might be renowned for having one of the more mundane roles in the company, but he harbours a talent that is both incredibly creative and impressive too. We are not talking about drinking prowess or his Encyclopedic knowledge of Excel spreadsheets, the World Cup or Sales Force - but his artwork.

Phil paints pictures. Mostly of beautiful women – Angelina Jolie and Kate Moss are two of his favourites. He also recently painted Eileen Michael.

And he is keen to stress that he applies the same skills used in his job in his painting.

“There is a definite process to creating art. You have to use a process to achieve the end result. I take an image, and run it through Photoshop to achieve a certain kind of ‘pop art’ style picture, then create a grid, and then paint. Great painters such as Da Vinci used a process to create their masterpieces,” he said.

But where did this hobby start?“Quite recently. I have always enjoyed

art work – sketching and pastels. I did O and A Level art without doing any course work at school, but then didn’t do much with it after that. When a gang of us from DMG did a day at the JamJar art gallery, it re-kindled my interest.

“I really enjoyed it, it was a good laugh, and wanted to go back to finish the painting – of Kate Moss. Then I thought

about it, went to the art shop, bought all the equipment and since then I have done seven or eight pieces at home.”

Phil is meek about his clear talent, saying that he has had quite a few favourable comments, and even sold a few, but that selling the paintings is never his motivation.

“I think it’s important to have interests outside of work. I love work, but it’s good to have something different outside of the office to do. I have to really be in the mood to paint, and I struggle with commissions – I can only paint an image I really like in the first place.”

After hearing Eileen was leaving Dubai, Phil decided a painting of her would be a nice gesture. “It’s a personal, unique gift”, he said, “I met Eileen when I came out here three years ago, and she was very kind and generous to me without asking for anything in return. I felt lucky that she was one of the first people I made friends with here.”

He said a painting will take him three or four weeks to paint, in bursts when the mood takes him, and, like many passionate artists, says he has often worked through the night, especially to take advantage of being in the right mood to paint.

“I can’t work under pressure, but when you’ve mixed a certain shade, you have to paint all the elements in the colour, because it’s hard to re-create the exact shade again,” he said.

Hidden talents

20 | the dmg lowdown

Contributed by Will Rankin

Connecting People, Creating Communities, Facilitating Business

Page 21: The dmg lowdown

the dmg lowdown | 21

Cultural Corner:This issues Arabic phrases may come in pretty useful when being driven in a Taxi !

DID YOU KNOW?• Construction Work Commenced in 2003• It used over 230,000 cubic metres of concrete. That’s the equivalent to 1900 kms of pavement!• The design of the building’s base was inspired by a flower, the Hymenocallis which is cultivated throughout the Gulf. • Is 818 Metres tall• It became the tallest building in the world in July 2007 when it surpassed the height of Taiwan’s Taipei 101 which at 509 metres tall was the highest skyscraper. Then it

became the tallest structure in the world when it out-grew the KVLY/KTHI television mast in North Dakota, USA which is 628 metres tall.• The observation deck is on the 124th Floor• The elevator ride to the observation deck takes 1 minute and travels at a speed of 10 metres per second.• There are three permanent window cleaning teams, each with a telescopic cleaning arm which can reach up to 45 metres. It takes 3-4 months for the teams the clean the entire outside of the building, making it a full time job!

The Burj Khalifa

Arabic Language Training

Going to...

Sea/Beach……………… il baharAirport…………………… mataarHotel………………..…… funduq

And then, but hopefully not!

Police………………….....….. al shurtaaAccident……………….....…. haadithSorry (if he tells you so!)……. Aasif (m)/aasifa (f)Stop! .............................. Kuf!

Slow Down……………… Schway schway etc etcRight…………………….. YamiynLeft………………………. YasserStraight Ahead…….….. SiydaaTurning………………….. KafraqSignals………………….. Ishaara

For those of you that would like to try learning Arabic the company has now purchased several Arabic language courses.

The courses are a computer based DVD model program that helps to establish the basic building blocks of learning a new language.

The program operates on a new method known as the ‘ Byki ‘ method- which is quickly being regarded as one of the fastest and most effective language –learning

programs available, it’s smart, personalized and really quite addictive!

These DVD’s will be kept with Premila in HR and will be freely available for all to use – just pop along, register your name and borrow the DVD – and return them once you have finished.

We currently have several copies – but if demand becomes high, the company will arrange for more copies to be purchased and made available.

Page 22: The dmg lowdown

REVIEW

Ray’s WorldRestaurant and Entertainment reviews

After a short, uneventful journey from the dustbowl of JLT to the shadow of the looming spire of Burj Khalifa, I was pleasantly surprised to be deposited at the entrance to Souk Al Bahar for the very first time. The Souk is a pleasant surprise when balanced against the glitzy mall directly opposite and if you are feeling flush, you could even have a bespoke suit made up there.

For pre-dinner drinks, we headed to Left Bank which serves up a fairly eclectic mix of very strong cocktails and I settled for a Basil Fawlty to kick off the evening (more like it kicked the top of my head off). The early evening patrons were suitably glamorous and as it was still a decent temperature outdoors we, sat out and enjoyed the view of people ironing clothes in their apartments opposite the venue (why is it always the fat hairy ones?!) and the beautiful azure

waterway below us. After a few more odd concoctions, we moved on to the Mango Tree which is on the same level and a short walk away. At the entrance to Mango Tree, we were greeted by impossibly beautiful people and escorted into the restaurant via a short, dark passage and are welcomed by the most delicious smells I have encountered in any restaurant in Dubai thus far. We were led to the well stocked bar and as our guests were non drinkers, we opted for mocktails which probably saved us as the Left Bank cocktails were making themselves known in the strangest ways! We headed outdoors to admire the lovely view of the magnificent Burj Kalifa and we had a wonderful breeze to keep us cool (more of that later) so were feeling rather pleased with our seating arrangements for the night. The menu is an amazing mix of all things Thai – from curries, to salads and soups plus some rather unusual deserts at reasonable prices but the two big surprises for me both visually and taste-wise were the roast duck curry served in a pineapple and gigantic prawns served with glass noodles – both of which were absolutely delicious. I had asked for extra chilli but was not expecting our guests to supply their own tiny but furiously spicy Malaysian chilli which could have stripped paint from the walls (instead of my entire palate). Whilst we were tucking into our main course of duck, glass noodles, green curry and fish, the fountains and music started up and so did the wind! We were treated to a beautiful wall of water and suddenly, our prime table seemed a lot less attractive with briny water to add to the flavours of the meal. After a few more soakings, the wind abated and our evening came to a lovely cool end and we headed off to enjoy the rest of the evening. The one thing that stood out for me was the service and I would definitely recommend that anyone should visit but beware of cooling breezes if you sit outdoors!

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

Important NumbersDEWA……………………....….. 04 324 4444Directory Enquiries (du)….…... 199Directory Enquiries ( Etisalat).…181Etisalat Information………….... 144Operator……………………….. 100Salik…………………………….. 800 72545Talking Clock……………...….. 140

Weather Update………………. 04 216 2218Police………………………...… 999Ambulance…………………..… 998/999Fire………………………..……. 997Dewa Emergency…………….. 991Dubai Police………….............. 04 229 2222Municipality Emergency Number……............................ 04 223 2323

Mango Tree & Left bank at Souk Al Bahar

Ray Tinston invites you to read about his culinary adventures in the UAE.

22 | the dmg lowdown Connecting People, Creating Communities, Facilitating Business

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I think I can safely say that our first Sports & Social event in March was a resounding success, setting the bar exceedingly high for future events. As a result, I sincerely hope that the positive steps we have taken recently, in terms of team bonding & fostering a more positive morale in the workplace continues to grow leaps & bounds. While the efforts of the Sports & Social Committee are commendable, we must understand that the responsibility for a fun & friendly work environment does not fall solely on their shoulders; we ALL have an active part to play. Therefore, I would like to challenge each & every one of you to inject some fun & good humour into our workplace. Remember… the family that plays together stays together!

Premila BraganzaHR Supervisor

APRIL JOINERS:Patrick Gedeon – 1 April 2010 – became permanent as Sales Manager – Big 5 Riad Mannan joined us on 19 April 2010 as Conference Director for Big 5Rajive de Chickera joined the OBB team on 25 April 2010

MAy JOINERS:David Thompson joined on 9 May 2010 as Project Manager for FM ExpoRichard Pope joined the publishing side of Reflex on 16 May 2010Nathan Waugh joined as Commercial Manager on Big 5 on 23 May 2010

JUNE JOINERS:John MacLauchlan – Finance Consultant with effect from 1 June 2010Dinesh Perera – Office Assistant with effect from 1 June 2010Mike Allsopp – SVP – Design with effect from 6 June 2010Mazen Singer – Sales Manager for Pipeline with effect from 27 June 2010

JULy JOINERS:Frederique Maurell – 1 July 2010 – Event Director on HotelLouise Fenney – 4 July 2010 – HR Manager Cherylann D’Abreo – 4 July 2010 – Sales Manager on Pipeline

HR Corner

the dmg lowdown | 23

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Ikea ChairAED 100Good conditionPlease contact Sunita 050- [email protected]

TRADINGSPACELooking to buy or sell something? Then email your advert to [email protected]

Small electric cookerAED 400

DescriptionVery clean small electric cooker, suitable for family use

Telephone Jenny 050 6510937 or 04 3940260

IT TIPSWe all use our computers on a day to day basis, be it for writing emails, doing sales forecasts or research on the Web. I have to say that for me (ED) I seem to have most problems with using excel. Jitesh Goradia our in-house IT Guru and God of all things digital has provided a quick look up table for some quick and easy fixes and short cuts.

Accelerating Excel

To... Use this shortcut

Move right to left, cell by cell Tab

Move up and down, cell by cell Enter

Erase data in current cell Backspace

Return to the beginning of the row Home

Enter the date Ctrl + ; (semicolon)

Enter the time Ctrl + Shift + : (colon)

Start a formula = (equal sign)

Check the spelling of titles or words within the cells F7

Find out about the style within the cell ALT + ‘ (apostrophe)

Display the Format Cells dialog box Ctrl + 1

Apply the general number format Ctrl + Shift + ~

Turn numbers into dollars Ctrl + Shift + $

Make numbers a percentage Ctrl + Shift + %

Apply a border Ctrl + Shift + &

24 | the dmg lowdown

4x4 for sale – ML350 2007

Price: 117,000 AED

39,800 miles – beige leather interior, alloy wheels, Multi CD, six speed auto, very clean and well serviced

Simon Mellor +971 4 4380355 [email protected]

Biege Fabric Armchair/Lounge from HOME CENTRE!!!AED 550

Opens up to become an extremely comfortable lounge chair. Great for those TV nights!!! As shown in the attached pictures, you would never guess its age.Maha 0559162286

Connecting People, Creating Communities, Facilitating Business

PriceAED 3000 - 3200Jenny LagmanContact: 050-9482463

Page 25: The dmg lowdown

Cenil Roy weds Binitha Daniel. The joyful occasion was held Monday,

31st of May in Puthoor, India. Our best wishes to the newly weds.

On Friday July 2nd Nora(Index Team)gave birth to a baby boy. Named Daniel, he

weighed a 3kgs and was delivered at Al Wasl Hospital. Mother and baby doing well.

We wish Nora and her husband Dany all our best wishes.

Guess WhoCan you guess who these little sweethearts are?

...not blonde any more!

... I’m the only girl of the dmg dynasty

the dmg lowdown | 25

BIRTHDAyS,ENGAGEMENTS & WEDDINGS

Page 26: The dmg lowdown

GOT SOMETHING TO SAyOR ANNOUNCE?

SEND yOUR CONTRIBUTIONS [email protected]

GOT SOMETHING TO SELL?SEND THE DETAILS (WITH PHOTOGRAPH) TO

[email protected]

copyright dmg :: events 2010. all rights reserved.


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