While working as producer/presenter for ARD (German TV) I undertook a 6-week tour of 13 European countries to interview people on their views of the European Union. This called on all my diplomacy and language skills. It included interviewing sewage workers in Venice, hairdressers in Prague and anti-Europeans in Dover. The resulting TV production proved that despite their diversity, Europeans are still united by common values and aspirations. This understanding continues to inspire my conference moderation across Europe.

When moderating a conference on food security in Montpellier, the French interpreter failed to arrive. I suddenly had to moderate the entire two-day event in both English and French. In spite of having no time to prepare for this challenge, the conference was a great success.

Also while producing a documentary for ITV, during a live interview with a key contributor, my production assistant collapsed with acute appendicitis. The sound recordist drove her to hospital. Having instantly lost two of the three on my team, I grabbed the microphone, grappled with the technology and successfully completed the interview.

Active listening with sensitivity in high–powered, culturally diverse interviews. People often tell me that I make them feel safe to open up about subjects they rarely speak about, which helps them gain objectivity and clarity. I thrive in conferences which demand empathy, warmth and humour and that draw on my background in philosophy and psychology.

Having studied both counselling and conflict resolution, I’m skilled at getting under the skin of both speakers and audience. Using non-verbal skills, I can detect the meaning beneath what is being said and relay it clearly and succinctly. Speaking six languages, I’m able to tune into the culture of each person, stay focussed and pull out key points. My on-stage presence and experience of working with large audiences was acquired by performing as a singer/songwriter on several solo tours across Europe, Africa and South America.

This is a deeply personal profession where I have the honour of careful listening to enable people to express some of their most deeply held views and experiences. Each new assignment excites me. It brings an opportunity to discover and learn new subjects in depth. The research that goes into my moderation continuously enriches my worldview and gives me fresh ideas.