Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Accomplishments
Timeline
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Kurt Gillins

Valparaiso,IN

Summary

Dynamic and results-driven leader with a proven track record in advocating for business interests and building strategic partnerships. Seeking to leverage extensive experience in community engagement, and organizational leadership. Committed to driving innovation, promoting entrepreneurship, and enhancing the prosperity of local business community through collaboration, advocacy, and impactful initiatives.

Overview

26
26
years of professional experience

Work History

Director of Corporate and Employer Relations

Valparaiso University
07.2023 - Current
  • Created campus wide sponsorship program to present to area businesses as revenue generator. These sponsorships range from community/campus events to student organization sponsorships for competitions and travel.
  • Work closely with Valparaiso University Provost to identify graduate programs and certificates to promote to business owners and corporations.
  • Recruit businesses and employers who would benefit from internships from Valparaiso University and become pipeline for students to be hired.
  • Work closely with Alumni Association to help plan events for Homecoming.
  • Work closely with Valparaiso University Career Center to create events to integrate students with area business professionals.

Vice-President, Programs and Communciations

Valpo Chamber
10.2006 - 06.2023
  • Successfully organized and executed high-profile events, such as annual galas, business expos, and networking mixers, to showcase local businesses and facilitate connections.
  • Oversaw Chamber's budget and financial operations for all non-dues revenue streams, ensuring prudent fiscal management and accountability.
  • Developed and implemented programs to support small businesses, including workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities, constantly analyzing all events and programs to maximize their effectiveness and profitability to members and Chamber.
  • Collaborated with other chambers of commerce and business organizations regionally, statewide, and nationally to exchange best practices and leverage resources.
  • Increased membership and engagement levels through targeted outreach and membership benefits initiatives.
  • Created all marketing and communications for chamber including social media, print, and digital. This included monthly video, quarterly magazines, e-blasts, and advertising.
  • Recognized for leadership by receiving awards and accolades from industry peers at state and national levels.
  • Worked with economic development branch of chamber and city to assist with efforts to bring new businesses to city.

Cultural Projects Coordinator

Memorial Opera House/County Of Porter
06.1998 - 10.2006
  • Oversaw staff of five and volunteer base of over 100 annually.
  • Created theatre program from ground up for this government owned theatre which began with annual budget of over $100,000.
  • Produced and directed up to ten main stage shows each year.
  • Chief creative director for all productions including set design and construction, costume procurement, music direction, lighting design, and props.
  • Created marketing campaigns for theatre productions, including audition notices and ticket sales.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Theatre & Communication

Valparaiso University
Valparaiso, IN
05.2002

Accomplishments

-2012 Graduate of US Chamber Institute for Organizational Management.

-2013 Certified Executive from Indiana Chamber Executives Association (ICEA).

-2018 Grand Award Recipient from Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) for video communication strategy.

-Past board member for ICEA.

-Past board member of Porter County Tourism board.

Timeline

Director of Corporate and Employer Relations

Valparaiso University
07.2023 - Current

Vice-President, Programs and Communciations

Valpo Chamber
10.2006 - 06.2023

Cultural Projects Coordinator

Memorial Opera House/County Of Porter
06.1998 - 10.2006

Bachelor of Arts - Theatre & Communication

Valparaiso University

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Kurt Gillins