Cait Schmidt
South Milwaukee
Summary
Knowledgeable Event Specialist with a comprehensive background in orchestrating successful events and ensuring seamless execution. Proven ability to manage logistics, vendor relations, and client expectations, resulting in high satisfaction. Demonstrated expertise in detailed planning and creative problem-solving.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Events Specialist
Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c.
06.2023 - Current
- Lead the full lifecycle of event strategy, planning, execution, and evaluation for audiences ranging from intimate programs to large-scale Firm events.
- Serve as the primary intake contact for new event requests, collaborating with attorneys to refine concepts.
- Coordinate Firm sponsorships and oversee fulfillment of sponsorship commitments, including on-site booths.
- Partner with Learning & Talent Development to secure CLE accreditation.
- Develop and implement promotional schedules to maximize event engagement.
- Design and manage procurement of branded gifts and promotional items.
Events Manager
Milwaukee Jewish Federation
07.2021 - 06.2023
- Directed planning, execution, and evaluation of events ranging from 10 to 400+ attendees in-person and virtually.
- Helped implement an organization-wide project management system to increase efficiency and impact.
- Designed and executed an Annual Event Plan aligned with strategic priorities.
- Created CRM-driven intake and outtake processes to expand audience reach.
Events Planner
Milwaukee Jewish Federation
12.2019 - 07.2021
- Managed multiple event timelines and budgets simultaneously.
- Maintained relationships with Major Donors and Corporate Sponsors.
- Collaborated with leadership and marketing teams to develop scripts, messaging, and event content.
- Built digital spaces including RSVP forms, landing pages, newsletters, and social promotions.
- Facilitated virtual events and managed digital platforms.
- Coordinated speaker research, booking, and full travel logistics.
- Oversaw on-site execution for 30+ annual events, including AV, catering, and registration.
- Maintained accurate records in the Blackbaud database.
Development Coordinator
Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra
11.2018 - 12.2019
- Coordinated events from small donor gatherings to 400-person galas.
- Cultivated relationships with Major Donors and Board members.
- Managed Playathon fundraiser operations and communications.
- Oversaw fiscal year-end processes and maintained donor databases.
- Created donor communications and marketing materials.
Marketing, Communications & Volunteer Coordinator Intern
UW–Madison
01.2018 - 06.2018
- Built donor/prospect databases and historical archives.
- Increased conference attendance by more than 20%.
- Created promotional materials including email campaigns, signage, and social content.
- Secured sponsorships and partnerships.
- Trained and managed a volunteer team of five.
Fundraising & Development Intern
Sector67
05.2017 - 09.2017
- Raised $30,000 for the Capital Campaign.
- Maintained relationships with nine major donors.
- Researched and drafted grants to support organizational growth.
Education
B.S. - Community and Nonprofit Leadership
University of Wisconsin–Madison
05.2018
Skills
- On-site execution
- Managing events start to finish
- Customer Service
- Vendor management
- Speaker coordination
- Logistics management
- Budget management
- Post-event analysis
- Entertainment booking
- Vendor negotiation
- Guest list management
- Contract negotiations
- Registration management
- Audio-visual coordination
- Event design
Websites
Affiliations
- South Milwaukee 125th Anniversary Committee (2022–Present); Secretary (2024)
- National Association of Catering and Events (NACE), Member (2018–2021)
- Milwaukee FUEL, Member (2018–2021)
- Phi Omicron Upsilon Honor Society (2015–2018)
- AFP Collegiate Chapter & Certificate in Fundraising (2014–2018)
- Badger Volunteers (2014–2016)
Timeline
Events Specialist
Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c.
06.2023 - Current
Events Manager
Milwaukee Jewish Federation
07.2021 - 06.2023
Events Planner
Milwaukee Jewish Federation
12.2019 - 07.2021
Development Coordinator
Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra
11.2018 - 12.2019
Marketing, Communications & Volunteer Coordinator Intern
UW–Madison
01.2018 - 06.2018
Fundraising & Development Intern
Sector67
05.2017 - 09.2017
B.S. - Community and Nonprofit Leadership
University of Wisconsin–Madison