Sara Byrne
Calgary,Canada
Summary
With 36 years of experience in event planning, operations, and business development, this dynamic and results-driven Event Management Professional specializes in coordinating large-scale corporate, nonprofit, social, and entertainment events. Expertise lies in logistics, budgeting, and vendor management. Consistently demonstrates the ability to improve processes, lead teams, and solve strategic problems to optimize operations for efficiency and profitability. Proficient in event planning software for seamless event execution.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Event Coordinator
Genesis Centre
05.2023 - Current
- Planned and executed average 100 events annually, including corporate AGMs, trade shows, concerts, galas, sporting events, and large religious gatherings
- Coordinated Pooja Mila 2023, managing logistics for 4,000+ attendees, city permits, security (CPS & personal protection), Alberta Health Services compliance, insurance, sound, and fencing
- Assisted with the revamping of event booking policies and procedures, streamlining workflows and pricing structures to increase efficiency and client satisfaction
- Liaised with client, 3rd party vendors, marketing, operations, and finance teams to ensure seamless event execution and revenue optimization
- Coordinated schedules and timelines for events.
- Adapted quickly when faced with unexpected challenges or changes in plans, maintaining composure while finding effective solutions.
- Managed event logistics and operations.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless event execution and positive outcomes.
- Established positive relationships with clients, ensuring their needs were met throughout the event planning process.
- Handled crisis management situations promptly, minimizing negative impact on event outcomes and client satisfaction.
Manager / Production Manager
Kaleidoscope Business Development
09.2012 - Current
- Designed and implemented operational systems that improved team communication and reduced inefficiencies
- Led corporate and trade show event production, including virtual, hybrid, and in-person formats
- Managed partnerships, sponsorships, and vendor relations, ensuring high-quality service and cost-effective solutions
- Supervised a team of 3 full-time, 3 part-time, and 6 freelance staff while scaling event production operations
- Managed and motivated employees to be productive and engaged in work.
- Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving disputes promptly, maintaining open lines of communication, and ensuring high-quality service delivery.
- Resolved staff member conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
- Maximized performance by monitoring daily activities and mentoring team members.
- Cross-trained existing employees to maximize team agility and performance.
- Developed and maintained relationships with customers and suppliers through account development.
- Reduced operational costs through comprehensive process improvement initiatives and resource management.
- Negotiated favorable terms with suppliers, cutting operational costs while maintaining quality of service.
- Fostered partnerships with industry leaders, enhancing company's reputation and creating new business opportunities.
Office Manager
Greywolf Wealth Management
01.2012 - 09.2019
- Oversaw office operations and property management, including budgeting, vendor negotiations, and contract oversight
- Streamlined operational spending
- Transitioned all rental operations to an automated system, improving efficiency and tenant experience
- Managed training, compliance, and event planning for 1,600-person corporate conferences and retreats
- Handled sensitive information with discretion, maintaining confidentiality of company documents and personnel records.
- Provided exceptional customer service when addressing client inquiries or concerns via phone calls or email correspondence.
- Maintained accurate financial records by reconciling accounts payable/receivable transactions regularly to ensure balanced budgets.
- Oversaw office inventory activities by ordering and requisitions and stocking and shipment receiving.
- Conducted regular inventory assessments of office supplies, ordering necessary items proactively to prevent stock shortages.
- Coordinated office events and meetings, ensuring timely execution and optimal scheduling for all participants.
- Served as a liaison between upper management and staff members, facilitating open channels of communication to address concerns or issues promptly.
- Managed vendor relationships, negotiating contracts for cost savings while maintaining high-quality services.
- Facilitated smooth communication between departments, addressing concerns promptly to maintain harmonious work relationships.
- Supported department heads in accomplishing their goals through diligent administrative assistance such as report generation and data entry.
- Oversaw facility maintenance requests, coordinating with building management to address repairs or improvements efficiently.
- Reduced costs with meticulous budget monitoring and expense tracking for essential supplies and equipment.
Trainer / Supervisor
Darden Restaurants Canada
10.2007 - 12.2012
- Trained and onboarded 250+ employees, ensuring compliance with corporate standards
- Collaborated on training material development and process improvements
- Supervised front-of-house operations, including scheduling, performance reviews, and customer relations
- Mentored new hires, resulting in stronger staff development and increased productivity.
- Provided one-on-one mentoring to help individuals reach their full potential within the organization.
- Coached employees on best practices, providing constructive feedback to support their professional growth.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of training initiatives by tracking participant progress and gathering feedback for continuous improvement.
Owner / Coordinator
Make It Happen
03.2000 - 09.2007
- Founded Ireland's first wedding and party supply store, expanding to include rental services and printing
- Secured distribution rights for four major international brands, including Wilton Baking
- Built a wedding industry collaborative, connecting bakers, florists, and formal ware providers
- Recognized with awards for customer service and innovation
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
- Managed financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, financial reporting, and tax preparation.
- Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
- Hired trained, and managed a high-performing team of employees dedicated to achieving company goals.
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers for better pricing and terms, reducing overall costs for the business.
- Achieved financial growth with strategic planning, cost control measures, and targeted marketing efforts.
- Organized and attended trade shows and special events to showcase products, network with other businesses and attract new customers.
- Evaluated industry competition regularly to maintain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
- Mentored staff members on best practices in customer service and sales techniques, leading to increased performance levels.
- Expanded business into new markets, cond
- Enhanced company's market position by identifying and pursuing new business opportunities.
Education
BBA - Business Administration And Management
Mount Royal University
Calgary, AB06-1994
No Degree - Professional Investigator
Sting Executive Group International Inc.
Calgary, AB03-2009
Skills
- Event Management
- Financial Planning
- Event planning
- Team Leadership & Training
- Project management
- Vendor & Sponsor Negotiation
- Scheduling
- Process Improvement
- Time management
- Social Media & Marketing Strategy
- Contract & Venue Management
- Public Relations & Customer Service
- MS Office Suite
- Event Planning Software Expertise
- Guest relations
- Crisis management
Timeline
Event Coordinator
Genesis Centre
05.2023 - Current
Manager / Production Manager
Kaleidoscope Business Development
09.2012 - Current
Office Manager
Greywolf Wealth Management
01.2012 - 09.2019
Trainer / Supervisor
Darden Restaurants Canada
10.2007 - 12.2012
Owner / Coordinator
Make It Happen
03.2000 - 09.2007
BBA - Business Administration And Management
Mount Royal University
No Degree - Professional Investigator
Sting Executive Group International Inc.
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