Hilary Oliver
BA Spanish and Russian Studies (1972)
Managing Director of her own Mayfair studios, Hilary launched Cameo Productions Ltd, her bespoke radio promotions business, in 1990. Viewed as the standout leader in on-air film promotion with typically an 80% share of the market, she employs seven permanent staff and a bank of freelance contributors.
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What made you decide to set up your own business?
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As Features Editor at a top commercial station in the 1980s, I received syndicated packages and PR material. With a couple of radio awards under my belt, I realised that I could create quality material more relevant and better suited to radio needs. Redundancy further concentrated my mind and Cameo was born! |
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What has been your biggest challenge so far?
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Balancing the demands of a burgeoning business with single parenthood and a separate broadcasting career as an arts reviewer on Radio 4, Radio 2, BBC and Sky TV. |
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What has been your biggest success or triumph so far?
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Creating a 70th birthday radio feature for a major Hollywood studio which was subsequently sent to publicists globally as an example of best practice. For almost 16 years being a regular reviewer on BBC Radio 2’s Sunday morning strand with the great Michael Parkinson and his successor, Michael Ball. Having promoted almost all his films hearing Danny Boyle say, 'It wouldn't be the same without you, Hilary.' |
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How do you feel your time at Queen's prepared you for this venture?
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My careers advisor at Queen's famously told me 'you can do everything and nothing with an arts degree'! Not exactly encouraging. However, I have put my Spanish to good use in interviews with the likes of Almodóvar, Cruz, Bardem and Banderas and was able to create an Audio Press Kit for the Spanish language, ‘Volver’. I think some of my social skills derive from long hours of serious academic discussion in the Students' Union bar. |
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What advice would you give someone considering starting a business?
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Do it in a recession. When times are tough people look for fresh and innovative ways of doing things. Back your vision with a sound business plan. Prepare to work 24/7, neglect family & friends, forego holidays. Treat your biggest and smallest clients equally. |
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What is your next ambition?
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To take a well earned sabbatical to refresh my Spanish studies and tour South America. To develop further our media training division. |
20/10/2010
