Talented, self-motivated professional with excellent marketing, customer service and facility oversight skills and more than 25 years of experience. Highly effective and comfortable working with people at all levels in organization. Background in increasing profits, reducing costs and transforming customer service standards. Experienced in leading and supervising operational and sales teams.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner
Shay Brown Event Management, LLC
02.2000 - Current
Developed Event Planning Services for Corporate Events, Non Profits, Festivals, Weddings and Creative Design Services
Venue Consultant with knowledge of market trends to create value-added solutions resulting in significant increase in revenues.
Increased Venue Management Sales satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes, protocol, and providing exceptional service with development and structure.
Managed financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, financial reporting, and tax preparation.
Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
Hired trained, and managed a high-performing team of employees dedicated to achieving company goals.
Implemented marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and attract new customers.
Established a positive workplace culture that fostered employee engagement, collaboration, and loyalty.
Negotiated contracts with suppliers for better pricing and terms, reducing overall costs for the business.
Evaluated suppliers to maintain cost controls and improve operations.
Established foundational processes for business operations.
Achieved financial growth with strategic planning, cost control measures, and targeted marketing efforts.
Organized and attended trade shows and special events to showcase products, network with other businesses and attract new customers.
Successfully navigated challenging economic conditions by making informed decisions that protected the business''s financial stability.
Fundraising for Development of Services
Historical Restoration Consultation
Board Representative for Organization
Crisis Negotiator
Manage Staff of 15 persons
Fostered an environment promoting continuous improvement empowering employees to identify opportunities for enhancing operational efficiency.
Resident Vice President – State Relations
CSX Transportation, Inc.
01.1997 - 01.2000
Managed government and public affairs for Federal and State Legislative Issues in Georgia
Cultivated strong relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, vendors, regulators, and community leaders to promote collaboration and long-term success.
Led cross-functional teams for the successful completion of major projects, resulting in increased efficiency and client satisfaction.
Develop civic group support for rail industry initiatives in the region, including freight, intermodal, and public transit
Strategically developed and expanded company relationships with corporate executives, community leaders, and political officials
Managed corporate projects with a budget in excess of 25 million
Negotiated legislative issues with federal and state legislators
Handled public affairs and media relations for the company
Crisis Intervention for Media Relations
Organized corporate contributions and donations
Managed economic development and strategic issues with state organizations
Produced Corporate Retreats and Conventions for the state
Executive Director
State Transportation Board
01.1996 - 01.1999
Representative of public affairs to the Board of Transportation Federal and State interest in Georgia
Organized monthly board meetings, national meetings, road dedications, elections, retreats and conventions
Worked closely with organizational leadership, board of directors, and elected officials to guide operational strategy.
Oversaw financial management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability for the organization.
Maintained and approved rules, regulations, and resolutions adopted and enacted by the board
Represented the board's interest in the General Assembly as a State Lobbyist
Maintained relationships with local, federal, and state legislators in Georgia
Attended and Maintained all Board Records and Minutes for All Meetings
Moved into Vice President Of CSX Position at Request of the Board
South Georgia Regional Director – President
Coastal Corrections Services, Inc.
01.1992 - 01.1996
Negotiated contracts with the State, Magistrate, and Municipal Court
Streamlined operations for improved efficiency by evaluating existing processes and introducing innovative solutions.
Monitored 3500 cases of misdemeanor offenses
Supervised collection of fines, treatment, and court orders
Maintained relationships and contracts with City and County Commissions
Developed office policy and procedure
Maintained a staff of 18 employees
Motivated employees through effective communication, recognition programs, and tailored incentive structures that aligned with corporate objectives.
Developed diversion groups and counseling services for company
Maintained accounting services for company
Moved into Executive Director with State Board of Transportation at Request of Management
Education
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice - Accounting
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC
01.1994
Skills
Customer Relations
Small business operations
Relationship Building
Verbal and written communication
Project Management
Operations Management
Strategic Planning
Project estimating
Staff Management
Civicaffairsandaccomplishments
1996, Young Woman of the Year, Leadership Glynn
Optimist Club, Chairman of Membership - Philanthropist
1998-2001, Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors
Georgia Rail road Association, Secretary and Treasurer
Operation Lifesaver, Board of Directors
Georgia Society
Habitat of Humanity
Fern Bank Museum
Woodruff Arts Center
Toys for Tots
Atlanta Metro Chamber
American Rental Associate
American Bridal Association
2006, Asheville Chamber of Commerce
2007, The Brides Book, Readers Choice Award
The Knot, The Best of Weddings
Weddings Unveiled, Best of the Best
Borrowed & Blue
Wedding Wire, Best Planner
Grace Ormonde Platinum List
Get Married, Best of Wedding
Asheville Virtuoso
Ruffled Blog
Junebug Weddings, World Best Planners
Timeline
Owner
Shay Brown Event Management, LLC
02.2000 - Current
Resident Vice President – State Relations
CSX Transportation, Inc.
01.1997 - 01.2000
Executive Director
State Transportation Board
01.1996 - 01.1999
South Georgia Regional Director – President
Coastal Corrections Services, Inc.
01.1992 - 01.1996
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice - Accounting