CELESTE JONES
Chicago,IL
Summary
Results-driven Private Events Manager and former venue owner with 9 years of comprehensive experience in site operations, logistics, and guest relations. Adept at coordinating complex event timelines, managing large-scale budgets, and maintaining rigorous quality standards. Combines business ownership acumen with a hands-on approach to elevate venue reputation and operational efficiency
Overview
1
1
Certification
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Event Planning Manager
Picture Purrfect Event Planning
Chicago, IL
11.2017 - Current
- Enhanced client satisfaction by meticulously planning and executing high-quality events.
- Developed creative event concepts with attention to detail, resulting in memorable experiences for attendees.
- Oversaw budget management and negotiated favorable contracts with venues, vendors, and suppliers, reducing overall event costs.
- Controlled inventory levels by coordinating efficient setup and teardown procedures at multiple venues simultaneously.
- Coordinated logistics efforts, including transportation, accommodations, and on-site support for seamless events.
- Coordinated florists, photographers, and musicians for events.
- Designed innovative marketing strategies to increase event visibility and attract target audiences.
- Trained and supervised event staff to complete tasks on time.
- Implemented contingency plans to address last-minute changes or unforeseen events.
- Evaluated event performance metrics post-event, identifying areas for enhancement in future planning efforts.
HR Compensation and Benefits Specialist
Trilogy Inc
Chicago, IL
2023 - Current
- Coordinated and conducted employee orientations to promote understanding of coverage and options.
- Built relationships with vendors to foster quality service delivery.
- Led initiatives to promote wellness programs, increasing employee engagement in health resources.
- Resolved complex benefits issues, leading to increased employee satisfaction and retention rates.
- Conducted annual open enrollment sessions to ensure employees were well-informed about their options and plan changes.
- Participated in annual benefit plan review meetings with senior leadership and external legal counsel providing data-driven insights and recommendations for future plan design adjustments.
- Reviewed and processed FMLA claims for compliance with federal and state regulations.
- Facilitated communication between employees and healthcare providers regarding certifications.
- Ensured compliance with federal and state regulations by staying up-to-date on the latest changes to FMLA laws and guidelines.
- Negotiated return-to-work plans between employees and their managers, ensuring proper accommodations were made for any ongoing medical needs.
- Handled escalated claim issues, working closely with employees and managers to achieve timely resolutions.
- Provided comprehensive training to team members, fostering a strong understanding of FMLA, ADA accommodations, benefits compliance, worker's comp regulations and best practices for handling claims.
HR Recruiter
Norwood Crossing Rehabilitation
Chicago, IL
2021 - 2023
- Managed full-cycle recruiting processes, resulting in successful placements and employee satisfaction.
- Developed recruiting strategies to identify qualified candidates and build network.
- Foster relationships with local educational institutions to attract talent through internship programs.
- Participate in job fairs and networking events to enhance employer branding and outreach initiatives.
Assistant Executive Director
Greenwood Care
Evanston, IL
2020 - 2022
- Supported and assisted executive director in management of facility budgets and business practices.
- Implemented and managed office operations to ensure efficient workflow and administrative task.
- Led training programs for new employees, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.
- Managed financial operations for the business, ensuring accurate budgeting and timely invoice processing and payroll compliance.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by addressing inquiries promptly and resolving issues professionally.
Administrative Assistant
Rush University Medical Center, RUMC
Chicago, IL
10.2019 - Current
- Ensured timely completion of projects with diligent task prioritization, delegation, and followup.
- Organized logistics and materials for each meeting and took detailed notes for later dissemination to key stakeholders.
- Supported senior leaders by managing budgets, scheduling appointments and organizing itinerary.
- Built and maintained excellent professional relationships through timely response to inquiries and going above and beyond to accommodate unusual requests.
- Interacted with vendors, contractors and professional services personnel to receive orders, direct activities, and communicate instructions.
Education
BA - Speech and Communication, Sociology and Psychology
PsychologySouthern New Hampshire University
Skills
Benefits administration
Labor law & compliance
Discretion and confidentiality
Active listening and communication
Cross functional collaboration
Relationship building and networking
Vendor management and contract negotiation
Time management and multitasking
Strict attention to detail
High pressure decision planning
Certification
- Radiology Patient Coordinator 2007-2010
- Nuclear Medicine Coordinator 2011-2012
- Psychiatric Case Manager 2013- 2019
Timeline
Administrative Assistant
Rush University Medical Center, RUMC
10.2019 - Current
Event Planning Manager
Picture Purrfect Event Planning
11.2017 - Current
BA - Speech and Communication, Sociology and Psychology
PsychologySouthern New Hampshire University
HR Compensation and Benefits Specialist
Trilogy Inc
2023 - Current
HR Recruiter
Norwood Crossing Rehabilitation
2021 - 2023
Assistant Executive Director
Greenwood Care
2020 - 2022