Karen Davidson
Toronto,ON
Summary
Event management professional with expertise in sales, logistics, and team leadership. Proven success in managing multiple venues, coordinating large-scale events, and building high-performing teams. Passionate about delivering exceptional client experiences.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Fundraising Events Coordinator
Reclink Australia
02.2024 - 09.2024
- Orchestrated large-scale fundraising events across 6 cities, notably the Melbourne Community Cup, attracting 12,000 attendees and generating $180,000 in much needed funds for non-profit organisation in support of Australia’s most vulnerable sector
- Led simultaneous execution of multiple high-profile events, driving organisational growth and enhancing Reclink Australia’s community presence
- Partnered with Corporate Sponsorship Manager to cultivate relationships, secure monetary and in-kind donations, and fulfil sponsorship commitments
- Spearheaded new event initiatives aligned with Board of Directors’ strategic objectives, expanding organisational reach and impact
- Managed end-to-end event logistics, including volunteer recruitment, training, catering, security, and medical support coordination
Event Sales Executive
Amora Hotel Riverwalk
09.2023 - 04.2024
- Managed end-to-end event planning, from client liaison & initial concept to execution & post-event evaluation
- Collaborated with various departments to ensure flawless execution of events, including catering, audio/visual, hotel accommodation, & external suppliers
- Provided exceptional attention to detail in coordination of events to guarantee the successful, efficient, & seamless operation of events
- Developed & maintained strong client relationships, identified needs & delivered exceptional customer service
- Orchestrated seamless events, managing budgets up to $50,000
- Ensured client satisfaction through tailored experiences, fostering strong relationships and revenue growth
- Developed creative solutions to elevate experiences and generate additional revenue streams
- Strategically negotiated contracts and managed budgets to ensure profitability
- Conceptualised and executed a variety of unique events including weddings, funerals, multi-day conferences, product launch parties, corporate dinners, school formals, etc.
Event Manager
Rorschach Brewery
01.2024 - 09.2024
- Oversaw end-to-end event planning, including event concept creating, menu selection, scheduling, setup logistics, invoicing and post-event evaluation
- Successfully handled multiple event accounts from lead to execution with various budgets, up to $25,000 CAD
- Demonstrated ability to be strategic, creative & innovative to exceed goals
- Revised pricing strategies, boosting ROI and revenue while negotiating cost-effective supplier deals
- Demonstrated ability to manage profit & loss statements, exceeding sales targets while staying on budget
- Created meticulous BEOs to efficiently communicate to all teams
- Nurtured relationships with a network of suppliers, entertainers, rental companies, specifically local small businesses
- Created unforgettable experiences for guests to ensure repeat business
- Demonstrated composure in high-stress situations, ensured physical & psychological safety for all; Thoughtfully & efficiently rectified issues as needed
Director of Operations & Events
Marben Restaurant & The Cloak Bar
04.2018 - 02.2023
- Oversaw all service, business & events operations for three venues & off-site
- Managed multiple heads of departments, offering career development
- Demonstrated outstanding leadership, verbal & written communication skills, & approachability while directing & supporting a team of20+ service staff
- Redesigned pay structure to include Employment Assistance Program, free access to counseling, Health Spending Account & living wage pay for all staff
- Created safe & positive atmosphere with strong training & mentorship program for young adults in hospitality
- Demonstrated strong time-management skills, efficiently overseeing daily operations, team building, accounting & marketing strategies
- Managed restaurant group with a revenue of2.5 million dollars annually
- Planned & executed quarterly marketing campaigns to generate new leads & increase repeat business
- Coordinated service staffing, catering team, training, floor-plan arrangement, rental booking & delivery, transportation, miscellaneous ordering, setup & timeline execution
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Psychology, Minor in Linguistics
Carleton University
Skills
- Proficient with Technology
- Natural Leader
- Adaptability
- Time Management
- Attention to Detail
- Customer Service
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
French
Full Professional
Spanish
Professional Working
ASL
Limited Working
Timeline
Senior Fundraising Events Coordinator
Reclink Australia
02.2024 - 09.2024
Event Manager
Rorschach Brewery
01.2024 - 09.2024
Event Sales Executive
Amora Hotel Riverwalk
09.2023 - 04.2024
Director of Operations & Events
Marben Restaurant & The Cloak Bar
04.2018 - 02.2023
Bachelor's Degree - Psychology, Minor in Linguistics
Carleton University
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