Fran Dewar

Fran represents major digital clients of Charcoalblue delivering high quality Events Production Spaces

As a Director at Charcoalblue, I manage our key client accounts and provide strategic expertise at the project and portfolio level.I’m a firm believer in the power of collaboration—I thrive when working alongside a team to tackle complex challenges. I’m especially driven by strategic planning, where we can get creative with problem-solving. My goal is always threefold: deliver world-class work, enjoy the process, and ensure my team is supported and happy.

What Excites You Most About Your Work

I find it most rewarding to work closely with a client to distil their vision into an actionable brief. This process allows us to understand our clients on a deeper level and builds a strong foundation for the relationship. I also value the opportunity to work across different countries and cultures; it brings fresh perspectives and unique challenges to everything we do.

What Brought You to Charcoalblue

It was a case of perfect timing meeting a personal leap of faith. After years of honing my skills in event operations, hospitality, and project management, I felt ready for a new challenge that offered genuine room for growth. I had long admired Charcoalblue’s portfolio—the Young Vic, in particular, resonated with me as I’ve always found the space to be uniquely inspiring. When I saw a role that aligned so closely with my expertise, I knew I had to take the jump. Transitioning into this field was a bold move, but one I was fully prepared to make a reality.

What Does Great Design or Experience Mean to You

A truly great experience occurs when a guest feels that every detail has been thoughtfully considered. Every element of the design is curated to seamlessly support their journey, leaving a lasting impression where the guest may not be able to pinpoint exactly why the venue worked so well—only that it did, perfectly.

A Project That Shaped How You Work

Rather than a single defining project, my approach has been shaped by the collective lessons of every project I’ve contributed to. The sheer diversity of the sectors, industries, and countries we engage with presents new challenges—often on a daily basis. This variety keeps me agile; I am constantly identifying how we can refine our processes and how I can evolve individually. For me, the goal is always continual improvement.

What Clients/Colleagues Value About You

I believe my colleagues value my work ethic and my commitment to the team above all else. I’ve always made it a priority to recognise great work and share positive client feedback, ensuring that both individual and collective successes are celebrated. For me, working hard goes hand-in-hand with fostering an environment where everyone feels seen and appreciated.

What You Hope People Feel in a Space You’ve Worked On

In the context of an event, I want people to feel a sense of immediate belonging and intuitive ease. I hope that when someone enters a space I’ve worked on, they don’t have to ‘think’ about where to go or what to do next. Through clear sightlines, strategic zoning, and logical flow, the environment should act as a silent guide. When the physical friction of finding the coat check, the bar, or a quiet place to talk is removed, guests can spend 100% of their energy on the actual purpose of the event—connection and experience.”

A Problem You Love Solving

A problem space I love is determining the right team of people, skills and experience to ensure successfully delivery of a project. Because our projects are so varied, achieving that balance is a constant, rewarding challenge. I truly believe that success hinges on team dynamics; I find immense satisfaction in fostering an environment where roles are clearly defined, allowing the team to work with confidence and cohesion.

A Place That Shaped or Inspires You

The Royal Festival Hall, London, South Bank. The first time I came to London I fell in love with London and live performance. I saw Coppelia age 7. I was completely blown away by the scale of the building, the warmth and elegance of the design aesthetic, and inviting feeling of the space. To this day I love this building.

Cultural Value That Guides Engagement with Others

Creativity and Innovation – In our daily work, we must approach every challenge with a problem-solving mindset and forward-thinking perspective. Whether acting as designers or strategists, we navigate complex requirements to realise a client’s vision—consistently striving to exceed expectations through inventive solutions. Our creative lens extends into our engagement with stakeholders and partners. Navigating the diverse interests of our clients requires a strategic kind of creativity—the ability to build consensus and communicate complex ideas in a way that inspires confidence. By fostering a collaborative environment where every voice is heard, we can synthesise competing priorities into a singular, cohesive direction.