Jillian Stevens
Fort Lauderdale,FL
Summary
Twenty years of experience in the events sector, dedicated to inspiring teams and creating impactful experiences. Strong ability to recruit and nurture leadership talent, consistently achieving and exceeding sales objectives. Experienced in budget management and innovative revenue-driving strategies. Frequently recognized for excellence in special events and service quality through national publications and social media.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Events
Pier Sixty-Six
04.2024 - 09.2025
- Recruited and supported an incredible team of event professionals at the re-imagined Pier Sixty-Six resort situated on 32 acres, 42,000 square feet of indoor event space and 50,000 square feet of outdoor venues, 164 slip Super Yacht marina, 12 restaurants and 325 guest rooms. Department comprised of (3) Event Managers, (2) Social Catering Managers, Private Dining Manager and (2) Coordinators.
- Led strategic planning and design for large-scale grand opening events, 1st program, 1st resort buyout, familiarity programs with ALHI, Coral Tree Advisory Board and the Beyond Collection, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
- Managed vendor relationships, negotiating contracts to optimize service delivery and budget adherence.
- Cultivated lasting relationships with key industry partners, expanding the company''s network of reliable service providers.
- Developed comprehensive event timelines and workflows, enhancing efficiency and coordination among teams.
- Spearheaded the development of new event concepts, banquet programming and service standards resulting in unique offerings that set the company apart from competitors.
- Boosted brand visibility through targeted marketing campaigns and strategic social media presence, driving increased inquiries for event services.
- Influenced transportation and parking arrangements for guests and vendors.
Director, Event Sales and Operations
Broken Sound Club
04.2023 - 04.2024
- Supported the successful reopening of Broken Sound clubhouse, post $62 million renovation.
- Innovated club activities and special events to enrich member engagement and experience.
- Contributed significantly to strategic efforts that elevated club status among Platinum Clubs of America.
- Assessed event sales strategies continuously for both members and non-members to ensure profitability.
Director, Meetings & Special Events
Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
03.2018 - 11.2022
- Directed a diverse team comprising three Senior Social Catering Managers, five Senior Convention Services Managers, four Administrative Assistants, and one Delphi Administrator.
- Participated in Executive Committee for successful November 2020 reopening efforts.
- Executed Hilton CleanStay and EventReady program with comprehensive service standards.
- Instilled a culture of adaptability and creativity during challenging pandemic times.
- Orchestrated strategic planning for GRAND transformation across 2022 and 2023.
- Streamlined C&E department SOPs to improve operational efficiency significantly.
- Nurtured a positive atmosphere emphasizing creativity, energy, and ongoing growth.
Director, Catering & Events
Waldorf Astoria Chicago
01.2017 - 03.2018
- Managed Catering & Events department at upscale property featuring 15,000 sq. ft. of indoor event space, Parisian Courtyard and 212 guest rooms.
- Team Ranked #1 in Overall Satisfaction by Meeting Planners across all Hilton Luxury Hotels in 2017.
- Oversaw all sales activities, monthly forecasting, and annual budgeting for Group and Local Catering.
- Updated departmental processes to meet Hilton compliance requirements within the first six months.
- Tracked team performance using an administered Sales Incentive tool for enhanced accountability.
- Designed creative banquet menus, sophisticated wedding brochures, and updated amenity guidebooks as marketing resources.
- Implemented various hospitality tech solutions to ensure operational efficiency among teams.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Hospitality Administration
Boston University
Boston, MASkills
- Certified Waldorf Astoria brand trainer, TIPS certification, food safety certification, first aid certification, workforce management platforms, Microsoft Office proficiency, Delphifdc expertise, various diagramming platforms, event management software, virtual tour technology
Accomplishments
- Waldorf Astoria's True Waldorf Service Award
- Hyatt Manager of the Quarter
PERSONAL INTERESTS
Theater, Philanthropy, Fitness, Family Time, Reading, Travel, BU Alumni Chapter, Tri Delta Alumnae Chapter
OTHER ROLES
- Catering Sales Manager, Hyatt Hotels Corporation & Westin Hotels & Resorts
- Banquet Manager, ARAMARK @ Boston University (Off Premise Catering)
- Assistant Front Office Manager, Marriott International
- MDP Graduate, Marriott International
- Guest Service Agent, Hilton Hotels & Resorts
- Concierge, Omni Hotels & Resorts
Timeline
Director of Events
Pier Sixty-Six
04.2024 - 09.2025
Director, Event Sales and Operations
Broken Sound Club
04.2023 - 04.2024
Director, Meetings & Special Events
Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
03.2018 - 11.2022
Director, Catering & Events
Waldorf Astoria Chicago
01.2017 - 03.2018
Bachelor of Science - Hospitality Administration
Boston University