Lauren Merkley
Ottawa,Ontario
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven events fundraiser with a proven track record of cultivating impactful relationships, fostering community engagement, and executing successful fundraising events. Adept at identifying and leveraging partnership opportunities to advance organizational goals. Skilled in designing and executing innovative events that resonate with donors and the community. Eager to contribute my expertise in community engagement and fundraising to drive positive outcomes for The Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Officer, Community Partnerships, DIFD & Events
The Royal Ottawa Foundation For Mental Health
2017.08 - Current
- Successfully lead and execute events to ensure a meaningful experience for guests and maintain and exceed the profitability of the Foundation’s event portfolio.
- Manage all aspects of event operations, including developing and executing critical paths, RSVPS, venue or vendor/supplier negotiation, creating print materials/signage, permits, and coordinating volunteer and staff attendance.
- Provide ongoing administrative support to the events team including: thank you letters, coordinating event invitations, maintaining database files, records and gift processing.
- Communicate with key event stakeholders (both internal and external), providing a high level of support and service to event committees, volunteers, donors, sponsors and vendors.
- Identify, cultivate, solicit and steward DIFD fundraising partners.
- Support DIFD community event organizers in the planning and execution of successful events and fundraising initiatives, including representing the Foundation at events when required.
- Develop and execute an annual stewardship event to celebrate community fundraisers.
- Support other Foundation teams with the acquisition, cultivation, and stewardship of donors across all segments and constituent types.
Education Event Planner
The Royal Mental Health Centre
2016.08 - 2017.08
- Successfully planned and executed a variety of education-focused events, including conferences, workshops, seminars, and academic ceremonies.
- Collaborated with faculty, and staff to understand event objectives and tailor experiences to meet educational goals.
- Managed all aspects of event logistics, including venue selection, budgeting, vendor coordination, and on-site execution.
- Developed and maintained relationships with speakers, and partners to enhance event quality and relevance.
- Developed and managed event timelines, ensuring seamless coordination and adherence to academic schedules.
- Implemented feedback mechanisms to gather insights from participants and stakeholders, facilitating continuous improvement for future events.
Conference Planner
University Of Ottawa
2010.05 - 2015.02
- Built strong relationships with industry professionals, sponsors, vendors, and venues to enhance overall conference quality.
- Showcased creativity in event design elements such as signage, promotional materials, and stage setups to create an immersive atmosphere.
- Collaborated with speakers to develop relevant content and ensure presentations aligned with conference themes and objectives.
- Reduced logistical issues with careful attention to detail in planning schedules, room assignments, and technology requirements.
- Coordinated pre-conference communications with attendees regarding agenda updates, travel information, and other important details.
Education
Diploma - Event Managment
Algonquin College of Applied Arts & Technology
Ottawa, ON06.2010
Advanced Diploma - Sport And Fitness Administration Management
George Brown College
Toronto, ON06.2008
Skills
- Event planning and execution
- Donor relations
- Time management
- Team collaboration
- Relationship building
- Adaptability and creativity
- Professional integrity
- Interpersonal communication
- Attention to detail
- Volunteer management
- Organizational skills
- Database management
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Officer, Community Partnerships, DIFD & Events
The Royal Ottawa Foundation For Mental Health
2017.08 - Current
Education Event Planner
The Royal Mental Health Centre
2016.08 - 2017.08
Conference Planner
University Of Ottawa
2010.05 - 2015.02
Diploma - Event Managment
Algonquin College of Applied Arts & Technology
Advanced Diploma - Sport And Fitness Administration Management
George Brown College
Similar Profiles
Debbie FarahDebbie Farah
Business Analyst, Data and Analytics at The Royal Ottawa Mental Health CentreBusiness Analyst, Data and Analytics at The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre
Gourav SinghGourav Singh
Tactical guard at Royal Ottawa Mental Health CentreTactical guard at Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre
Gourav SinghGourav Singh
Tactical Guard at Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Garda World securityTactical Guard at Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Garda World security