Alicia Watson
Greenville,SC
Summary
Dynamic Senior Event Marketing Manager with a proven track record at Fleetworthy, driving strategic planning and execution of high-profile events. Expert in budgeting and cost management, achieving a 47% increase in marketing qualified leads. Adept at cross-functional collaboration and creative storytelling, delivering impactful results in event operations.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Event Marketing Manager
Fleetworthy
08.2023 - Current
- Developed comprehensive event and tradeshow strategy during rebranding and merger of three organizations.
- Spearheaded planning and execution of high-profile summits and exclusive gatherings.
- Managed all aspects of event planning, including budget creation and vendor oversight.
- Established $1.5 million event and tradeshow budget for 65 events across three product lines.
- Conducted research to identify key tradeshows and industry events for participation.
- Increased marketing qualified leads by over 47% within first twelve months in role.
Trade Show Manager
Sage
08.2022 - 08.2023
- Developed and implemented comprehensive tradeshow strategies aligning with marketing and business objectives.
- Managed all aspects of trade show planning, including budget development and vendor management.
- Researched and identified relevant tradeshows and industry events to enhance visibility.
- Created robust trade show budget of $1.1 million within first 45 days, securing necessary funds.
Trade Show and Event Specialist
UL Solutions
09.2021 - 08.2022
- Executed comprehensive event strategies, aligning objectives and timelines with organizational goals.
- Researched and identified trade shows, conferences, and industry events to target audience and brand positioning.
- Oversaw event logistics, including venue selection, contract negotiations, and budget management.
- Orchestrated over 45 in-person and virtual events for multiple business units in 2021.
- Increased event-related ROI by 25% through robust lead tracking systems and effective budget management.
Event & Trade Show Coordinator
Q'STRAINT
09.2016 - 08.2021
- Managed attendance at over 150 trade shows, optimizing logistics and increasing brand exposure.
- Established marketing campaigns that elevated attendee engagement and boosted booth traffic.
- Designed and implemented captivating booth strategies, leading to a 35% increase in quality leads.
- Planned and executed over 120 events annually, encompassing industry trade shows and corporate gatherings.
- Drove a 40% increase in event-related ROI within first 18 months through innovative strategies.
Event and Trade Show Coordinator
Vantage Hospitality
Senior Social Catering Manager
Embassy Suites
Conference Planning Manager
Wyndham Miami Airport Hotel & Executive Meeting Center
Catering Sales/Conference Planning Manager
Hotel Galvez, A Wyndham Grand Heritage Hotel
Wedding Coordinator
MGM Grand Hotel & Casino Las Vegas
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science & Business
University of Florida
Gainesville, FLSkills
- Budgeting and cost management
- Event operations management
- Strategic planning and execution
- Cost optimization
- Team leadership
- Marketing strategy
- Project management
- Digital strategy
- Process improvement
- Creative storytelling
- Cross-functional collaboration
Accomplishments
- Accelerated event revenue by 35% within first 8 months, surpassing targets and driving substantial growth
- Attained flawless 100% satisfaction rating for events based on customer online surveys, showcasing exceptional service.
- Cultivated and managed hotel's social media presence, amplifying brand visibility and engagement to capture wider audience.
- Forged/nurtured strategic partnerships with vendors to establish robust event network, negotiating the best possible contracts.
- Orchestrated flawless planning and execution of conferences and conventions, ensuring utmost professionalism and precision.
- Conceptualized/executed high-end events/receptions for renowned Fortune 500 companies, creating unforgettable experiences.
- Surpassed sales targets by impressive 35%, demonstrating exceptional sales acumen and consistent overachievement.
- Propelled holiday party revenue by extraordinary 98%, capitalizing on market opportunities/delivering robust event experiences.
- Galvanized event sales with astounding 45% surge within initial two months, showcasing rapid business growth trajectory.
Timeline
Senior Event Marketing Manager
Fleetworthy
08.2023 - Current
Trade Show Manager
Sage
08.2022 - 08.2023
Trade Show and Event Specialist
UL Solutions
09.2021 - 08.2022
Event & Trade Show Coordinator
Q'STRAINT
09.2016 - 08.2021
Event and Trade Show Coordinator
Vantage Hospitality
Senior Social Catering Manager
Embassy Suites
Conference Planning Manager
Wyndham Miami Airport Hotel & Executive Meeting Center
Catering Sales/Conference Planning Manager
Hotel Galvez, A Wyndham Grand Heritage Hotel
Wedding Coordinator
MGM Grand Hotel & Casino Las Vegas
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science & Business
University of Florida