Brian Edwards
Events & Marketing Communications
Des Moines,CA
Summary
Detailed and strategic events and marketing communications professional with over 10 years of experience delivering engaging, value-generating corporate and client-facing events. Recognized as a forward-thinking leader and effective collaborator with exceptional creativity, versatility, and precision in planning, executing, and evaluating multifaceted events.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
2
2
Languages
Work History
EVENTS PLANNING MANAGER
Krause Group / Kum & Go
Des Moines, IA
07.2019 - 10.2024
- Strategized and executed comprehensive corporate event programs and field marketing activations for 800+ unit convenience store retailer.
- Concurrently managed end-to-end event lifecycles from concept creation to post-event analysis, delivering on project scopes, KPIs, and goals while adhering to budgets ranging from $5K to $3MM+.
- Steered collaboration and communication between executive leadership, internal stakeholders, and vendor partners to foster alignment and ensure seamless coordination and delivery of high-touch events and projects.
- Enhanced attendee experience by introducing creative event concepts, deploying innovative engagement tactics, and leveraging surveys and feedback to inform continuous improvement.
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Two Rivers Hospitality Group
Des Moines, IA
06.2017 - 06.2019
- Directed daily operations for multi-entity hospitality organization specializing in high-volume catering services and elevated event solutions producing >100 events annually.
- Maximized growth of catering and event business by revitalizing relationships with valued clientele and negotiating partnerships with vendor suppliers, contributing to >18% increase in Gross Revenue.
- Cultivated cohesion and development of event leadership team through training sessions on best practices in event management and client relations, empowering team to handle higher-level responsibilities.
- Optimized operational performance by analyzing weekly financial metrics, implementing updated cost control efficiencies, and deploying enhanced procurement and inventory practices, increasing Net Food Sales by >13% YOY.
GENERAL MANAGER
Goldfinch Restaurant (Two Rivers Hospitality Group)
Des Moines, Iowa
05.2016 - 06.2017
- Spearheaded strategic rebranding efforts and successful opening of new restaurant concept, overseeing budget and project deliverables all aspects of operations, staffing, menu development, and marketing.
- Launched revamped private events program by bolstering social media presence and curating digital marketing tactics to attract target clientele.
- Enhanced new employee onboarding processes through comprehensive training that prioritized customer service standards, employee retention, company values.
INTERIM CATERING & EVENTS MANAGER
Catering DSM (Two Rivers Hospitality Group)
Des Moines, Iowa
11.2015 - 05.2016
- Negotiated contracts with clients, ensuring mutually beneficial terms for both parties involved.
- Collaborated with sales teams to secure new business opportunities and increase revenue growth.
- Developed strong relationships with vendors, resulting in cost savings and reliable services.
ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER
Dos Rios Cantina & Tequila Lounge (TRHG)
Des Moines, Iowa
10.2012 - 11.2015
- Developed and implemented policies and procedures to improve customer service and satisfaction.
- Facilitated effective communication between front-of-house and back-of-house teams, fostering inclusive and team-first work environment that led to smoother operations.
- Collaborated with General Manager and Executive Chef in enhancing menu offerings and services for private events and banquets to further company growth objectives.
Education
Some College (No Degree) -
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IASkills
Mondaycom
Restaurant365
Salesforce
SAP Concur
Slack
Canva
CapCut
Cvent
Google Workspace
Microsoft Office
Zoom
Websites
Accomplishments
- Krause Group Values Award Recipient, 2022
- United Way Campaign Co-Chairman, 2021
- United Way Committee Member, 2019 - 2023
- Events Steering Committee Founding Member, 2021 - 2023
- Base Camp Project Team Member, 2023 - 2024
Timeline
EVENTS PLANNING MANAGER
Krause Group / Kum & Go
07.2019 - 10.2024
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Two Rivers Hospitality Group
06.2017 - 06.2019
GENERAL MANAGER
Goldfinch Restaurant (Two Rivers Hospitality Group)
05.2016 - 06.2017
INTERIM CATERING & EVENTS MANAGER
Catering DSM (Two Rivers Hospitality Group)
11.2015 - 05.2016
ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER
Dos Rios Cantina & Tequila Lounge (TRHG)
10.2012 - 11.2015
Some College (No Degree) -
University of Iowa
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