I’m Henry Swales—confident, outgoing, and a strong problem solver with experience across hospitality operations, live music journalism, and freelance public relations. I’m comfortable stepping into fast-paced environments, coordinating people and schedules, and keeping standards high, whether that’s ensuring smooth day-to-day bar operations or supporting artists and events with clear, effective communication. Outside of work, I love music, sports, and writing, and I enjoy turning creativity into practical outcomes—whether that’s researching and interviewing for music coverage, building relationships with publications and events, or helping organise and promote gigs through my events company, Lucky Shoe Gigs. I take pride in discretion, phrasing, and tailoring experiences so guests, performers, and the media all have what they need.

Henry Swales

I’m Henry Swales—confident, outgoing, and a strong problem solver with experience across hospitality operations, live music journalism, and freelance public relations. I’m comfortable stepping into fast-paced environments, coordinating people and schedules, and keeping standards high, whether that’s ensuring smooth day-to-day bar operations or supporting artists and events with clear, effective communication. Outside of work, I love music, sports, and writing, and I enjoy turning creativity into practical outcomes—whether that’s researching and interviewing for music coverage, building relationships with publications and events, or helping organise and promote gigs through my events company, Lucky Shoe Gigs. I take pride in discretion, phrasing, and tailoring experiences so guests, performers, and the media all have what they need.

Available to hire

I’m Henry Swales—confident, outgoing, and a strong problem solver with experience across hospitality operations, live music journalism, and freelance public relations. I’m comfortable stepping into fast-paced environments, coordinating people and schedules, and keeping standards high, whether that’s ensuring smooth day-to-day bar operations or supporting artists and events with clear, effective communication.

Outside of work, I love music, sports, and writing, and I enjoy turning creativity into practical outcomes—whether that’s researching and interviewing for music coverage, building relationships with publications and events, or helping organise and promote gigs through my events company, Lucky Shoe Gigs. I take pride in discretion, phrasing, and tailoring experiences so guests, performers, and the media all have what they need.

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Experience Level

Intermediate
Intermediate

Work Experience

Freelance Public Relations (On-site PR & Reporting) at Zeitgeist Agency
January 1, 2025 - Present
Provide on-site PR work for Reading and Leeds festivals. Set up interviews between artists and journalists and deliver hour-by-hour media reporting about the festivals. The role requires discretion in communications and careful phrasing to ensure accurate, professional updates.
Freelance Journalist (Live Music) at CLASH Magazine / Cold Magazine (Freelance)
January 1, 2025 - Present
Write freelance journalism covering live music across Europe. Research background information, reach out to publications, artists, and events, represent events as needed, and conduct interviews. Published work includes features in Clash Magazine, The Cold Magazine, and Stub Quarterly, with emphasis on creativity in the writing process and strong communication throughout.
Shift Supervisor at Mitchell and Butlers
January 1, 2023 - Present
Manage the day-to-day operations of a city-centre Irish bar, including stock management, health and safety assurance, conflict resolution, and staff training. Tailor a great guest experience and act as a key holder responsible for opening and closing the bar. Focus on clear communication, smooth operational flow, and quick problem solving to maintain a welcoming environment.
Music Events Organizer / Promoter at Lucky Shoe Gigs (events company)
January 1, 2022 - Present
Organise and promote music events, including ticket sales and rep work. Handle on-the-spot problem solving, coordinate clearly with performers, venues, and the media, and focus on curating an enjoyable, well-run experience for gig-goers. Manage multiple moving parts from promotion through execution to keep events smooth and engaging.

Education

Philosophy, Politics and Economics at University of Leeds
September 21, 2020 - July 27, 2023

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Retail, Travel & Hospitality