Lesya Catherine Franco

Dynamic sales, hospitality, and business operations leader with 20+ years of experience driving revenue growth, leading luxury event operations, managing executive relationships, and executing high-profile corporate and private events. Expertise includes business development, client relationship management, venue operations, executive support, project management, and cross-functional leadership. Recognized for delivering exceptional client experiences while improving operational performance.

Senior Talent Acquisition Manager Specialist - Cescaphe Event Group

(2024-01)

• Partner with executives to support staffing and operations across luxury venues.
• Support event execution, onboarding, budgets and leadership initiatives.

Director, Talent Acquisition & Staffing - Jeffrey A. Miller Catering

(2020-01 - 2024-12)

• Supported operations for 17 event venues.
• Managed staffing, logistics and client service for 800+ hospitality professionals.
• Led teams supporting weddings, galas and corporate events.

General Manager / Director of Operations & Sales - Mercato Ristorante & Bar

(2014-01 - 2020-12)

• Directed sales, restaurant operations, private events and financial performance.
• Built corporate and private client relationships.
• Oversaw BEOs, vendor coordination and event execution.

Event Planner & Coordinator - Terrain (URBN)

(2016-01 - 2020-12)

• Planned luxury weddings and corporate events up to 250 guests.

Special Event Project Manager - QVC

(2008-01 - 2018-12)

• Managed executive meetings, product launches and corporate events.
• Coordinated vendors, budgets and cross-functional teams.

Bachelor's Degree - Communication and Media Studies - West Chester University of Pennsylvania