Director of Special Events

**Hard Skills:**

- Event Planning & Execution

- Budget Management & Cost Optimization

- Contract Negotiation & Vendor Relations

- Virtual & Hybrid Event Platforms (e.g., Hopin, vFairs)

- Event Technology Integration (AR/VR, RFID tracking)

- Data-Driven Event Analytics & Reporting

- Creative Concept Development

- Risk Management & Compliance

**Soft Skills:**

- Strategic Thinking

- Leadership & Team Management

- Stakeholder Engagement

- Adaptability & Problem-Solving

- Effective Communication

- Negotiation & Influencing

*Senior Manager, Events & Engagement | InnovateCon Global | New York, NY*

June 2022 – Present

- Led the planning and execution of 50+ large-scale corporate events, including international summits and innovation expos, with attendance exceeding 15,000 participants.

- Implemented hybrid event solutions, increasing global engagement by 35% while reducing travel costs by 20%.

- Developed an integrated event app featuring AR experiences, boosting attendee interaction metrics by 40%.

- Managed a budget of $5M, negotiating vendor contracts that resulted in a 15% savings annually.

- Led a cross-functional team of 20+ staff, fostering a collaborative environment focused on innovation and excellence.

*Director of Events | NonProfit FutureForward | Chicago, IL*

August 2017 – May 2022

- Conceptualized and managed annual fundraising galas raising over $10M in total contributions.

- Transitioned the organization’s flagship event to a virtual format during the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing participation by 25%.

- Built relationships with corporate partners and sponsors, securing exclusive event sponsorships that enhanced event branding and revenue streams.

- Developed comprehensive post-event analytics dashboards to inform future strategy and optimize ROI.

- Mentored event staff and volunteers, cultivating a high-performance team recognized for professionalism and creativity.

*Event Coordinator | TechSphere Solutions | Boston, MA*

July 2014 – July 2017

- Coordinated logistics for product launches, trade shows, and client conferences across North America.

- Managed vendor relationships, venue negotiations, and on-site event execution.

- Supported digital marketing efforts including social media campaigns and email outreach to maximize event attendance.

- Implemented a CRM-based attendee management system, improving data accuracy and follow-up efficiency.

**Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Management**

University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign | 2010 – 2014

- Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) | 2016

- Virtual Event Planning Certificate | 2021

- Digital Event Strategist Certification | 2023

- **Global Virtual Summit 2023:** Led a team to produce a fully virtual international summit with custom VR networking lounges, live translation, and AI matchmaking tools, achieving a 98% satisfaction rating from attendees.

- **Sustainable Event Initiative:** Spearheaded a zero-waste policy at company events, resulting in a 60% reduction in waste output and recognition as a LEED-certified organization.

- English (native)

- Spanish (fluent)