Lesley is a highly accomplished professional with more than 25 years’ experience in business development, destination marketing and international conferences. Beginning her career as Head of Sales at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre before becoming Head of Business Tourism at Marketing Edinburgh, she played a leading role in securing major international conferences and strengthening Edinburgh’s reputation as a world-class conference destination.
In 2017, Lesley joined GainingEdge to work on the BestCities Global Alliance account, serving as Business Development Director before becoming Managing Director (2020–2023). During this time, she has helped shape global strategies for business events and fostered collaboration amongst international destinations. She has since collaborated on major international projects, including the Destination Canada Events Legacy Study and the Copenhagen Risk Navigator.
Based in Edinburgh, Lesley specialises in researching and demonstrating the long-term impact and legacy of business events. She is Chair of Women in Tourism Scotland and a Director and Trustee of The Royal Yacht Britannia, further contributing to her community and the broader business events landscape.
