Blake C. Krantz
Chicago,IL
Summary
Dynamic and articulate professional with a keen eye for visual presentation and a strong foundation in leadership. Recognized for a positive, can-do attitude and a proven track record of ensuring seamless event operations. Resourceful and dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service, consistently striving to exceed expectations and enhance client satisfaction. Committed to fostering collaborative environments that drive success and elevate experiences.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Marketing /Events Manager/Graphic Designer
Best Events Management LLC
Chicago, IL
10.2023 - Current
- Conceptualize ideas, develop, and implement media and marketing campaigns.
- Create Flyers and event promo, including videos for social media.
- Communicate and build strong relationships with event vendors.
- Ensure the smooth operations of events using a professional, positive can-do attitude.
- Instrumental in ensuring successful events such as Chicago Pickle Fest, Mustache Crawl, TBOX, Wrigleyville Country Fest, After Hours at Lincoln Park Zoo, and many more.
- Analyzed event performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and refine future marketing tactics.
Resident Assistant
J1Accom
Chicago, IL
05.2023 - 08.2024
- Responsible for creating a positive, safe, and supportive experience for Irish students staying in Chicago for the summer.
- Lived in building and served as the main contact and role model for 300+ students. This included check in, check out and managing daily situations that arose 24/7.
- Served as liaison between students, J1ACCOM staff, and building management.
- Planned and facilitated social events and gatherings for students.
- Supervised resident assistants, ensuring adherence to policies and procedures.
- Coordinated resident engagement activities, enhancing community involvement.
- Monitored compliance with safety regulations, promoting resident well-being.
Lighting Tech Lead/Production Assistant
Kehoe Designs; Black Oak Productions
Chicago, IL
10.2021 - 09.2023
- Led production teams in the setup and strike of corporate and community events. Responsibilities included a variety of video and audio equipment and lighting.
- Worked closely with the Event Coordinators and made sure all parts of production and take-down ran smoothly.
- Assisted with warehouse loading and set up equipment as needed.
- Performed manual labor, lifting up to 50 lbs. consistently while maintaining safety standards.
- Streamlined project workflows, enhancing team collaboration and communication efficiency.
Graphic Designer – Remote
Frontline Real Estate Partners, LLC
Chicago
09.2020 - 07.2021
- Render aerial maps of retail store locations in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator using the plugin ArcGIS and Google Maps.
- Designed engaging marketing materials for property listings and promotional campaigns.
- Implemented design revisions based on client feedback, ensuring alignment with project goals.
- Developed creative design for print materials, brochures, banners, and signs.
Production Assistant
Chicago Stagehands
Chicago
06.2018 - 03.2020
- Responsible for the setup/strike of stage equipment for corporate and commercial events.
- Assured compliance with health, safety, accident-free operations, and quality requirements.
- Transported and organized audio and video equipment from storage and warehouse facilities.
- Additional experience as an Architectural Assistant, Graphic Design intern, and collaborative team player with excellent customer service skills.
Cashier / Market
Super Target Store
Chicago
08.2012 - 07.2015
- Handle cash registers, ensuring balanced drawers at the end of shifts.
- Provide exceptional customer service by addressing inquiries and resolving issues promptly.
- Helped sell Target Redcard and Credit Card to customers checking out
- Implement best practices for checkout efficiency, reducing wait times for customers.
- Train new cashiers on operational procedures and customer interaction standards.
- Worked flexible schedule and extra shifts to meet business needs.
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) - Graphic Design
The Illinois Institute of Art Chicago
Chicago, IL06.2018
Skills
- Graphic design
- Logo design
- Image/Video editing
- Social media design
- Presentation design
- Customer service
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving
Timeline
Marketing /Events Manager/Graphic Designer
Best Events Management LLC
10.2023 - Current
Resident Assistant
J1Accom
05.2023 - 08.2024
Lighting Tech Lead/Production Assistant
Kehoe Designs; Black Oak Productions
10.2021 - 09.2023
Graphic Designer – Remote
Frontline Real Estate Partners, LLC
09.2020 - 07.2021
Production Assistant
Chicago Stagehands
06.2018 - 03.2020
Cashier / Market
Super Target Store
08.2012 - 07.2015
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) - Graphic Design
The Illinois Institute of Art Chicago