KARAJ PETTIS

New York,NY

Summary

Project & Brand Operations Professional with 7+ years of experience managing high-visibility events, cross-functional teams, vendor partnerships, and client communications across New York City. Background in Mass Communications and Communication Design with proven success executing complex projects from concept through delivery. Skilled in stakeholder management, budget coordination, process optimization, and client-facing communication in fast-paced environments.

Overview

years of professional experience

Certification

Work History

Event Producer /Senior Project Manager

Shells Loft

01.2024 - Current

Manage full lifecycle execution of branded events, corporate off-sites, and experiential activations from initial concept through post-event analysis.
Coordinate cross-functional stakeholders including marketing teams, vendors, venue partners, and internal staff to ensure alignment on deliverables and timelines.
Develop and manage event budgets, contracts, and vendor negotiations to maintain financial efficiency.
Design production schedules, floor plans, and operational workflows to ensure smooth implementation.
Contribute to promotional campaigns and social media marketing initiatives to drive attendance and engagement.
Lead post-project evaluations, identifying operational improvements and retention strategies.

Event Operations Supervisor

Worthwhile Event Services

03.2021 - Current

Support large-scale corporate and private events by coordinating staffing, logistics, and execution plans.
Assist in recruiting, onboarding, and training team members to align with service standards and brand expectations.
Develop detailed run-of-show timelines and staffing plans to ensure project milestones are met.
Serve as on-site operational lead, resolving real-time challenges and maintaining quality control.
Collaborate with creative and culinary teams to ensure cohesive brand presentation.

Operations Lead / Event Captain

Riviera Catering & Events

03.2018 - 02.2021

Oversaw execution logistics for multiple concurrent events, ensuring adherence to timelines and client deliverables.
Acted as liaison between clients, creative planners, and operational teams to maintain communication clarity.
Trained staff in customer engagement, upselling, and brand representation.
Contributed to process improvements that streamlined service execution and team coordination.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Mass Communications

TCNJ

Ewing Township, New Jersey

05.2017

Bachelor of Arts - Communication Design

The College of New Jersey

Trenton, NJ