Operations & Business Development Manager at 828 VMC (2025-02 – Present)
- Drove business development initiatives to secure new venue management partnerships through prospecting, networking, tradeshows, and strategic outreach
- Owned performance management across sales, operations, and guest experience using KPIs to drive revenue growth and operational efficiency
- Built and maintained trusted relationships with venue owners through strategic planning, reporting, and proactive issue resolution
- Led end-to-end operations for managed venues, delivering monthly sales targets while maintaining cost and budget discipline
- Recruited, onboarded, and developed venue teams, building high-performing, service-driven culture
Venue Manager at 828 VMC (2021-11 – 2025-02)
- Generated $4.7M+ in venue revenue while managing the full client lifecycle from inquiry through event execution.
- Consistently exceeded annual sales goals while delivering personalized experiences for weddings, corporate events, and social celebrations.
- Delivered and exceeded monthly, quarterly, and annual sales targets across diverse event segments
- Managed the full sales lifecycle from initial inquiry through booking, including proactive lead prospecting
- Ensured seamless venue operations and consistently exceptional guest and client experiences
- Oversaw event operations, venue maintenance coordination, and logistical execution to ensure event success
- Tracked and analyzed performance metrics to drive operational efficiency and sales effectiveness
- Led vendor relationships and on-site teams with a focus on accountability, communication, and results
- Upheld company standards while fostering a positive, high-performing, and collaborative work environment
Event Operations Manager at Cheekwood (2020-02 – 2021-11)
- Managed high-touch client relationships for weddings, galas, and private events ranging from $50,000 to over $500,000 in spend
- Delivered personalized experiences for discerning clientele with exceptionally high service expectations
- Led logistical planning and on-site execution for external client events and internal development programs
- Partnered cross-functionally with internal departments to support nonprofit events, fundraising initiatives, and public programs
- Prepared and facilitated weekly logistics meetings to align internal teams on timelines, resources, and event execution
- Managed departmental accounting and bookkeeping, including purchase approvals, invoicing, profit margin tracking, and accounts payable
- Oversaw Event Operations Coordinator with full responsibility for beverage operations, including inventory management, ordering, and cost control
- Directed beverage menu development, part-time staff scheduling, and on-site team management to support efficient, high-quality service
Event Coordinator at Cheekwood (2017-08 – 2020-02)
- Served as on-site event supervisor for weddings and special events, working directly with clients, vendors, planners, and internal staff
- Managed all bar operations, including inventory control, staff scheduling, and on-site supervision
- Acted as primary liaison between vendors to ensure clear, continuous communication throughout event execution
- Partnered with the Special Events Manager to coordinate equipment rentals and event setup for internal and external programs
- Conducted client site visits and venue walkthroughs to support event planning and booking decisions
- Represented the venue at networking events and industry functions, generating leads and increasing venue rental revenue
Event Intern at Volunteer Princess Yacht (2016-12 – 2017-05)
- Supported the Sales Manager with sales calls, site visits, venue tours, bookings, and preparation of quotes, contracts, and invoices
- Led service and bar staff during public and private events, ensuring smooth banquet-style service execution
- Provided flexible on-site support by rotating between bar, service, and galley roles as needed