Larissa McKinlay
Calgary
Summary
Highly motivated employee with desire to take on new challenges. Experience in event management, brand marketing, and strategic communications. Adept at leading large-scale events, managing cross-functional teams, and executing high-impact marketing campaigns that drive engagement and brand growth.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Events and Marketing Specialist
University of Calgary Dinos Athletics
06.2023 - Current
- Manage planning and execution of 100+ annual events, including varsity games (across 16 teams), award galas, and press conferences—ensuring operational excellence and fan-focused experiences
- Coordinate closely with building operations to align event scheduling, setup, and teardown, ensuring seamless execution
- Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of 15+ part-time game day staff
- Lead vendor procurement, contract negotiations, and on-site coordination for third-party services (F&B, A/V, rentals, security)
- Oversee development of detailed event documentation: work plans, run of show, and scripts
- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders in hospitality, hotel, and business sectors to support partnership activations
- Collaborate with external partners including McMahon Stadium Society, Calgary Sport & Entertainment, and the UCalgary Student Union to ensure successful game day operations and special event logistics
- Develop and deliver game day scripts; coordinate with video production crews for in-game content and broadcast element
- Show call live events including games and ceremonies; direct timing and cueing of presentations, promotions, and broadcasts
- Work closely with marketing and sponsorship teams to activate branding, signage, and sponsor obligations
- Track and reconcile event budgets in partnership with finance coordinator; contribute to forecasting and financial planning
- Conduct event risk assessments and implement proactive mitigation strategies in collaboration with operations team
Match Operations, Contract
Calgary Wild FC
01.2025 - Current
- Develop operational plans and staffing models for game day execution at McMahon Stadium
- Collaborate with McMahon Stadium and the Northern Super League (NSL) to ensure stadium setup meets league standards and regulations
- Coordinate matchday logistics for visiting teams, referees, and youth teams
- Oversee on-site services including first aid, security, and emergency response planning in collaboration with stadium personnel
Event Operations Coordinator
University of Victoria Vikes Athletics and Recreation
09.2019 - 06.2023
- Led planning and delivery of all varsity events, U SPORTS championships (6+), and special initiatives (virtual banquets, hybrid events)
- Chaired planning committees, liaised with national bodies (U SPORTS), and oversaw $400K+ annual event budget
- Recruited, trained, and supervised 30+ part-time staff to support game days and special events
- Oversaw sponsorship fulfillment, vendor contracts, catering, signage, and risk management
- Managed ticketing using AudienceView (builds, reporting, sales) and delivered strong attendance strategies
- Secured and managed liquor and event permits; ensured compliance with food and alcohol regulations
- Oversaw all elements of guest experience, community outreach, and customer service execution on-site
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Recreation And Health Education
University of Victoria
06-2019
Skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Strong organizational skills
- Influential leadership skills
- Project Management
- Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse population
Awards Achievements Volunteering
- Fitness Coach, FitHouse YYC
- Chair, UVic Vikes Women's Rowing Alumni Chapter
- Volunteer, Kids Sport Victoria at annual Thrifty Foods Kids run
- Recipient of the 2018/19 Tony Zazadda Rowing Award for athletics, academics, and leadership
- Gold medal in the Varsity Women's 8+ at the 2018 Canadian University Rowing Championships
- Captain of the 2018/19 Varsity Women's Rowing team
Skills Certifications
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Strong organizational skills
- Influential leadership skills
- Project Management
- Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse population
- Serve It Right certification
- First Aid CPR-C certification
Timeline
Match Operations, Contract
Calgary Wild FC
01.2025 - Current
Events and Marketing Specialist
University of Calgary Dinos Athletics
06.2023 - Current
Event Operations Coordinator
University of Victoria Vikes Athletics and Recreation
09.2019 - 06.2023
Bachelor of Arts - Recreation And Health Education
University of Victoria
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