Jason Karsner

Dynamic and results-driven event management professional with over 20 years of experience in the entertainment and hospitality industries. Proven expertise in orchestrating large-scale events at premier venues like the Kentucky Exposition Center (KEC), including the Kentucky State Fair, 2017 President Trump Rally, National Street Rod Association events, Louder Than Life/Bourbon & Beyond festivals, National Farm Machinery Show & Tractor Pull, North American International Livestock Expo, and Equip Expo. Excelled in client relations, budgeting, and seamless execution for diverse stakeholders.

Seeking to leverage deep knowledge of Louisville's promotional landscape in a senior event or venue management role.

Content Creator at YouTube, Twitch, X (formerly Twitter), Rumble (2021-04 – Present)

• Produced engaging video and streaming content for global audiences, consistently meeting tight deadlines and growing viewership across multiple platforms.
• Developed creative strategies to optimize content for algorithms, resulting in increased engagement and subscriber growth.
• Collaborated with brands and communities to deliver high-quality, on-brand material tailored to trending topics.

Senior Event Manager at Kentucky Venues (Kentucky Exposition Center) (2015-01 – 2020-11)

• Led end-to-end event planning and execution for high-profile events serving up to 1 million attendees annually, including the Kentucky State Fair and major festivals like Louder Than Life and Bourbon & Beyond.
• Managed multimillion-dollar budgets, negotiated vendor contracts, and coordinated cross-functional teams to ensure flawless operations and exceed client expectations.
• Fostered strong client relationships, resulting in repeat business and positive feedback from organizations like the National Street Rod Association and North American International Livestock Expo.
• Handled crisis management during events, such as the 2017 President Trump Rally, maintaining safety and efficiency under high-pressure scenarios.

Bar Manager at Centerplate (Kentucky Exposition Center) (2013-08 – 2014-12)

• Oversaw bar operations during major events, managing inventory, staff scheduling, and compliance with alcohol service regulations to maximize revenue and guest satisfaction.
• Trained and supervised teams of 10+ bartenders, improving service efficiency and reducing waste by 15% through optimized processes.

Bartender at Multiple Venues: Levy's (Churchill Downs/KEC), Centerplate/Sodexo (Cardinal Stadium), Sodexo/OVG (Slugger Field), Centerplate/Sodexo (Yum Center), Centerplate (KEC/KICC) (2005-08 – Present)

• Delivered exceptional customer service in fast-paced environments, handling high-volume crowds at iconic Louisville venues like Churchill Downs and the Yum Center.
• Maintained expertise in mixology, inventory management, and POS systems, contributing to seamless event operations and positive guest experiences.
• Adapted to diverse event types, from sports games to concerts, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.

Project Manager at K&E Environmental Corporation (2007-10 – 2015-02)

• Directed environmental projects, including site assessments and remediation, coordinating teams and ensuring regulatory compliance with OSHA and IDEM standards.
• Managed project timelines, budgets, and client communications, delivering projects on time and under budget while mitigating risks in hazardous environments.

On-Air Talent at Radio One Louisville (WLRS), Mainline Broadcasting (WLRS), Clear Channel Louisville (WTFX/WQMF) (2000-08 – 2007-09)

• Hosted live radio shows, engaging audiences with compelling content, interviews, and promotions that boosted station ratings.
• Collaborated with production teams to create segments, manage ad integrations, and respond to listener feedback in real-time.

– Fern Creek High School (2000)