Melissa O'Connor
Brookline,NH
Summary
Accomplished Event Director with over 14+ years of experience delivering high-impact, executive-level events—both in-person and virtual. Adept at designing strategic event experiences that enhance attendee engagement, strengthen client relationships, and position companies for growth. Expertise in project management, budgeting, logistics, and vendor negotiations to ensure seamless execution. Proven ability to lead teams, optimize event processes, and introduce innovative strategies that drive success. Passionate about crafting immersive, memorable experiences that align with corporate goals and leave a lasting impression.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Events
Connection, Inc.
, NH
07.2024 - Current
- Lead the end-to-end planning and execution of high-profile executive-level events, ensuring alignment with business objectives and corporate messaging.
- Develop strategic event roadmaps that optimize engagement, foster client relationships, and drive business opportunities.
- Oversee multi-functional teams, ensuring seamless coordination between logistics, marketing, and stakeholder management.
- Introduce cutting-edge technologies to enhance event execution and attendee experience.
- Manage vendor relationships, negotiate contracts, and maintain budget adherence while maximizing ROI.
- Analyze key event performance metrics, implementing improvements based on post-event evaluations.
Event Manager
Connection, Inc.
, NH
04.2014 - 07.2024
- Spearheaded the execution of executive-facing events, including National Sales Meetings, Advisory Boards, and International Incentive Programs.
- Developed creative event strategies to ensure engaging and impactful attendee experiences.
- Managed budgets, resource allocation, and logistics to execute high-caliber events efficiently.
- Led and mentored a team of six event professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
- Conducted thorough venue research and vendor negotiations to secure optimal event locations and services.
- Created detailed event proposals and presented them to executive stakeholders for approval.
- Implemented a virtual event platform at the onset of COVID-19, ensuring a seamless transition for corporate events.
Event Planner
PC Connection, Inc.
, NH
01.2011 - 04.2014
- Designed and executed partner-sponsored events to enhance sales and customer engagement.
- Collaborated with internal teams to develop strategic themes for incentive programs and sales events.
- Coordinated travel logistics, vendor partnerships, and event-related materials to optimize attendee experience.
- Utilized event software to create landing pages, manage invitations, and track registrations.
- Conducted post-event debriefings, analyzing outcomes and proposing enhancements for future events.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Recreation Management and Policy: Program Administration
University of New Hampshire
Master of Business Administration - Marketing
Southern New Hampshire University
Skills
- Executive & Corporate Event Strategy
- Team Leadership & Development
- Budget & Resource Management
- Process Improvement & Technology Integration
- Attendee Engagement & Satisfaction
- Risk Mitigation & Compliance
- Vendor & Contract Negotiation
- Post-Event Analytics & Optimization
Productivity Platforms
- Event Registration Tools: Stova (formerly Aventri)
- Task Management & Proofing Tools: Workfront
- Webinar & Virtual Event Platforms: ON24, Teams, WebEx, Zoom
Timeline
Director of Events
Connection, Inc.
07.2024 - Current
Event Manager
Connection, Inc.
04.2014 - 07.2024
Event Planner
PC Connection, Inc.
01.2011 - 04.2014
Bachelor of Science - Recreation Management and Policy: Program Administration
University of New Hampshire
Master of Business Administration - Marketing
Southern New Hampshire University