About us
We're good at what we do
FORGE Events (KonnectHouse) is a dynamic and energetic team with 70+ years’ combined experience in the events industry. Having worked at some of the biggest powerhouses in conferences and events, we all came together at Procurement Foundry and formed a formidable team! With a customer-first mindset, we are proud to deliver events that reflect industry demand and need, working hand in hand with our sourcing friends to present the most topical and pressing issues of the day in fun and engaging formats.
Claire Barnes
For more than 25 years, I have been building a legacy of innovative, educational, and impactful global events within a multitude of sectors. My journey into the procurement industry began at WBR, continued through Procurement Leaders and culminated in my role to launch events for the ground-breaking, collaborative start-up, Procurement Foundry. The ethos of this community has always aligned perfectly with my own. The dedication to elevating the craft of procurement is what fuels my passion and motivation every day.
I believe events are about bringing an industry together, providing spaces that facilitate change, growth, and inspiration. The launch of KonnectHouse is the next chapter of my journey, and the opportunity to deliver game-changing experiences, both virtually and in-person, that are market-driven, content-rich and where stakeholders go to forge lasting, meaningful connections with their peers.
Sophie Serhan
With over 15 years in event sales, I’ve had opportunity to work in various industries, from procurement and financial compliance/regulation to fund management, private client services, and the legal sector.
Throughout my career, I’ve focused on crafting tailored sponsorships and marketing strategies that deliver meaningful engagement for brands, whether through in-person events or virtual platforms.
My passion lies in creating opportunities that resonate with target audiences and foster long-term, impactful partnerships.
Sue Lister
Events are the bloodline of collaboration, and delivering the best in the market is something we are proud to do at FORGE Events. We work with the best in the industry, raising the bar to deliver innovative, high energy events with a smile, humor and a dash of fun.
I’ve been working in the exhibition and conference industry for over 25 years. I thrive when bringing together like-minded professionals and forging long-term relationships with speakers, delegates, suppliers, and sponsors and find this the most rewarding part of the role.
My professional experience includes curating and running B2B and C2C conferences and exhibitions, international conferences, financial conferences, launch events, webinars, and virtual conferences. I am lucky enough to have worked across the globe, most recently enjoying time in America working within the procurement industry.