National Events Officer Candidates

We have an incredible THREE candidates in the running to be your next National Events Officer. And they’re eager to share their vision for the role and our association.

As part of the application process, each candidate submitted a statement explaining why they’re applying and, most importantly, why they believe they’re the best Tabler for the role. Along with a list of their 5 top achievements in Round Table.

You can read their statements and Top 5 lists below. 

Shortly, we will be releasing their pre-recorded campaign videos, which you can watch on the @RTGBI YouTube channel subscribe now for updates.

In alphabetical order, your candidates are:

Martyn Compton, Shirley RT 494

Kieran McCrystal, Mid Ulster RT 1293

Rich Hudson Smith, Beeston RT 573

And here are their Statements:

Martyn Compton submitted the following:

"Having been involved in large events with both Round Table and beyond with the Insomnia Gaming Festivals, I know what makes them great as well as how they need to protect themselves to deliver into the future.

"Whilst NSW and National Conference are staples of the Round Table calendar and coming into our 100th year need to really make an impact, it’s also critical to deliver on the world stage with our International World Meeting in York. My experience and passion for hosting events for thousands of people puts me in a great position to fulfil the National Events Officer role, and I would love the opportunity to serve on the board in this capacity."

Martyn's top 5 achievements are:

1. Chairman of Shirley beer festival for 4 years (2019-2023)

2. Area 35 (Heart of England) chairman (2024-25)

3. Treasurer of National PLC (2025-26)

4. Rebuild of Shirley Round Table’s Santa sleigh

5. National conference photographer 2025

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Kieran McCrystal's application statement:

"As a dedicated member of Round Table, I am standing for the position of Events Officer to

ensure the long-term health and vitality of our Association. My unique background in military logistics and business ownership provides the strategic, long-term view required to govern our two main national events: the National Conference and the National Sporting Weekend.

Strategic Leadership & Logistics:

"My experience as an Army Logistics Officer and current service as a Reserve Officer in the Artillery has equipped me with the precision required to oversee complex, large-scale projects. I am highly organised and adept at lateral thinking—skills essential for securing viable event locations and ensuring that accommodation and entertainment meet our high standards. Having served in Afghanistan, I possess the composure and discipline necessary to oversee rigorous health and safety aspects and risk assessments.

Financial Rigour & Professionalism:

"As a self-employed business owner managing contracts and employees, I bring a pragmatic

approach to the National Board. My professional background ensures I am prepared to:

● Interrogate Budgets: I will ensure both events remain profitable or break even, protecting

the Association from financial risk.

● Ensure Compliance: I will maintain up-to-date guidelines that align with our financial and

operational requirements.

● Manage Risk: I am committed to ensuring all insurance policies and contracts are in place

to legally protect Round Table.

Commitment to the Membership:

"I am an outgoing and confident communicator, ready to act as a bridge between event

committees and the National Council. My primary goal is to increase attendance by ensuring our events remain relevant, exciting, and accessible to every Tabler. I have the spare time and the ambition to "get the job done", and I am fully prepared to serve the required term to build a constant, organised cycle of activity for our future."

Kieran's top 5 achievements are:

1. Founding member - Mid-Ulster Roundtable (2025)

2. Inaugural Vice-chairman

3. Revitalised Table upon inaugral Chairmans sudden resignation.

4. Helped a tabler (England) through a mental health crisis

5. Recruited 5 members.

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Rich Hudson Smith submitted this statement:

"Since joining Round Table in 2012, I have been fortunate to gain experience across many levels of the organisation. From serving on multiple Presidential Liaison Committees, including Ladies Circle and 41 Club, to acting as a National Councillor and contributing to several National Events Committees, I have developed the skills, understanding, and enthusiasm required to serve confidently as National Events Officer in 2026.

"With RTBI hosting the RTI World Meeting in York in 2027, I bring valuable and relevant experience from my role as Vice Chairman for CEETM Nottingham in 2022. This gave me first-hand insight into the delivery of a major international event, from early planning and logistics to communication, teamwork, and volunteer coordination. It reinforced the importance of clear leadership, collaboration, and attention to detail in delivering events that members can be proud of.

"I was also proud to serve on the organising committee for the National Family Camping Weekend in 2019. This event attracted many members who had never attended a National event before, demonstrating how the right environment and promotion can broaden engagement. I would be keen to see this event return and continue encouraging members and families to participate at a national level.

"As National Events Officer, my priority would be to deliver inclusive, accessible, and well-communicated events that genuinely inspire members to attend. I want National events to feel welcoming, achievable, and rewarding. To support this, I would introduce a membership-led competition, inviting Tables and members to submit results that have enhanced engagement, with the winning entry receiving a fully funded place at National Conference.

"I am passionate about Round Table and deeply committed to its future. I believe my experience, energy, and strategic approach make me a strong candidate to represent our members, drive engagement, and deliver outstanding National events."

Rich's top 5 achievements are:

1. Area Chairman of the Year 24/25

2. CEETM Nottingham Vice Chairman 2022

3. Region 8 Representative 2016-2018

4. Area 14 East Midlands Chairman 2024-25

5. Beeston 573 Chairman 2021-22

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Now you've had a chance to review what all three candidates have to offer, you will need to place your votes before the deadline, which is the 7th March 2026 at 12 pm (Midday). Because we have 3 candidates, Tables will be asked to vote in preferential order for who they would like to be the next Events Officer for RTBI. Voting for each candidate in order from top to bottom, 1-3. Table Chairman will be sent the login details at the beginning of Feb by Sheraz Shahid Current National Vice President. If you do not receive login information, don't hesitate to get in touch with him via vp@roundtable.org.uk