A top creative expert for the Universal Orlando Resort in Florida, Rick Spencer, is to make his first public appearance in Scotland on 19th March, when he will present a special public lecture at Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh.

The theme of the lecture is ‘New Markets and Creativity…a Universal tradition!’, which will reveal how Rick and the team at Universal build and develop new markets by employing creativity, innovation and new media.

Hosted by QMU’s Division of Business, Enterprise and Management, the event aims to attract an audience of over 200 people from across Scotland, including those in business, education or with an interest in creativity.

The audience will also get the opportunity to ask the Universal manager direct questions.

Rick Spencer recently provided scripting and show direction for the grand opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Despicable Me – the Minion Mayhem and the all new Legendary Truth – The Collective and Alternate Reality Game for Halloween Horror Nights 2014.

As well as being Creative Manager for the Universal Orlando Resort, Rick is author of five novels: Icebound – The Viking Cipher, All that Glitters, The Moneymaster, Terror Merchants and The Devil’s Mirror.  His private clients includePaul McCartney’s MPL Communications, Time Warner and National Public Radio.

Commenting on the event, Richard Bent, Senior Lecturer in Business Enterprise and Management at QMU, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for QMU, businesses and individuals to hear from a creative manager working with one of the world’s leading entertainment and media companies.

“The recent opening of the extension to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando and the phenomenal growth of the Halloween Horror Nights show how a team at the top of its game can push the theme park sector to new levels. This will be a rare opportunity to hear and ask questions about these creative processes.”

The lecture begins at 6pm in the Halle Lecture Theatre at QMU.  The event is free but ticketed. Tickets will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. To book your place, E: univ@qmu.ac.uk or call Shereen Fazeli on T: 0131 474 0000.