Jillian Lapedus
Executive Leader In Global Event Strategy | Wellness & Brand Positioning Specialist
Los Angeles,CA
Summary
Accomplished Senior Director of Global Events with a proven track record in designing and executing high-impact global event strategies that drive brand recognition, member engagement, and organizational growth. Successfully managed large-scale event portfolios across multiple countries, overseeing multimillion-dollar budgets, and aligning cross-functional teams with business objectives. Demonstrated leadership in curating transformative wellness experiences and elevating brand positioning within the luxury wellness sector. Adept at building strong stakeholder relationships, optimizing processes, and leading innovative initiatives that contribute to sustained success and market leadership. Developed critical thinking, leadership, and strategic planning skills in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment. Effectively managed cross-functional teams and drove business growth through innovative strategies. Seeking to leverage these transferrable skills in a new field, bringing a strong foundation in problem-solving and team collaboration.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Co-Founder
The Guru Experience
Los Angeles, California
10.2024 - Current
- Co-founded and lead the strategic vision for The Guru Experience, a premier luxury wellness brand focused on delivering bespoke retreats that blend yoga, meditation, and holistic therapies to foster comprehensive well-being
- Collaborate with a curated network of wellness professionals to design and execute immersive, high-caliber experiences that address the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of an exclusive clientele
- Spearhead brand strategy, creative direction, and market positioning, establishing The Guru Experience as a distinguished leader in the luxury wellness space
- Grew the customer base through targeted outreach and networking events.
- Streamlined operational processes for improved efficiency and cost reduction.
- Established foundational processes for business operations.
- Developed marketing materials and campaigns to boost brand awareness and customer engagement.
Senior Director of Global Events
Equinox
Los Angeles, California
04.2019 - 10.2024
- Directed the global strategy and execution of over 1,500 events annually across 105 locations in 3 countries, managing a $3M budget to reinforce Equinox’s positioning as a leader in premium fitness and wellness
- Partnered closely with senior leadership, including the President and SVP of Sales, to align event strategies with organizational objectives, resulting in significant increases in member engagement, event attendance, and brand reach
- Led the optimization of event processes, improving cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder communication, thereby ensuring seamless execution and impactful messaging across diverse markets
- Created an agile working environment, enabling rapid response to changing business needs without sacrificing quality or performance standards.
- Developed strong relationships with key industry partners, fostering collaboration and mutual growth opportunities.
- Directed design and execution of business transformation initiatives to drive performance, profit optimization and growth opportunities.
Director of Events
Equinox
San Francisco, California
08.2015 - 04.2019
- Founded and scaled the Global Events Department, generating annual cost savings of $1M through the internalization of event management functions, while maintaining world-class standards of service and execution
- Managed a team of 10 event professionals, providing strategic direction and mentorship to enhance team performance, service quality, and alignment with Equinox’s brand identity
- Developed and standardized global event strategies with clear KPIs, resulting in enhanced consistency, measurable impact, and stronger member engagement across multiple international markets
- Developed comprehensive event proposals tailored to specific client needs, demonstrating a deep understanding of their objectives and priorities.
- Spearheaded the development of new event concepts, resulting in unique offerings that set the company apart from competitors.
- Cultivated lasting relationships with key industry partners, expanding the company''s network of reliable service providers.
Membership Advisor
Equinox
San Francisco, California
06.2012 - 08.2015
- Exceeded membership growth targets by fostering deep, lasting relationships with members and driving participation in events, contributing to the overall success of the Toronto location
- Educated prospective members on the benefits of joining the organization, resulting in increased conversion rates.
- Assisted in organizing open house events that showcased the facility''s offerings leading to higher event-to-member conversions.
- Maintained accurate records of all membership transactions, ensuring proper billing and payment processes were followed.
Restaurant Manager
Sotto Sotto Trattoria
Toronto, Ontario
01.2005 - 09.2007
- Managed daily restaurant operations, including staff supervision, customer service, and inventory control, ensuring a consistently high standard of service and operational efficiency
- Met, greeted, and encouraged feedback from customers and used feedback to implement positive changes within restaurant.
Education
Master of Arts - Public Relations Management
McGill University
Montreal, QC 09.2025 - 01.2010
Bachelor of Arts - Art History
McGill University
Montreal, QCSkills
Global Event Strategy & Execution
Luxury Wellness Program Development
Brand Positioning & Creative Direction
Budget & Financial Oversight
Cross-Functional Leadership
Stakeholder Engagement & Relationship Management
Vendor & Partner Negotiations
Operational Excellence & Process Optimization
Client-Centric Solutions
Digital & In-Person Event Technologies
Strategic Marketing & PR
Team Leadership & Development
Influencer Engagement
Contract Negotiation & Risk Management
Member Engagement & Retention
Strategic Marketing & PR
Team Leadership & Development
Influencer Engagement
Contract Negotiation & Risk Management
Member Engagement & Retention
Timeline
Master of Arts - Public Relations Management
McGill University
09.2025 - 01.2010
Co-Founder
The Guru Experience
10.2024 - Current
Senior Director of Global Events
Equinox
04.2019 - 10.2024
Director of Events
Equinox
08.2015 - 04.2019
Membership Advisor
Equinox
06.2012 - 08.2015
Restaurant Manager
Sotto Sotto Trattoria
01.2005 - 09.2007
Bachelor of Arts - Art History
McGill University