Laura Stokes
Baltimore ,Maryland
Summary
Creative events strategist with over a decade of experience in leading impactful B2b, corporate, non-profit, and cultural events. Expertise in global event management, ensuring alignment with strategic business goals through effective collaboration and execution. Proven track record in vendor negotiations, budget management, and developing best practices that enhance quality and ROI. Passionate about fostering connections and delivering exceptional experiences that drive engagement and business results.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Global Engagement & Event Manager
Rekor
Columbia , Maryland
11.2024 - Current
- Manage and support high-profile events at Rekor, driving revenue growth and positioning the company as an industry thought leader. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define event strategies, oversee logistics, and ensure seamless execution. Lead the development of tradeshow and branded materials, and implement best practices to track performance and ROI. Negotiate vendor contracts, manage budgets, and provide onsite leadership. Conduct post-event evaluations, gather insights, and stay current on industry trends to foster innovation and knowledge sharing.
EmpWR: Women of Rekor Communications Lead
Rekor Recognition Systems
Columbia , Maryland
07.2023 - Current
- Led initiatives promoting gender equity and professional development. Managed D&I communications, including newsletters and surveys. Supported event planning and collaborated with leadership to boost engagement and awareness of workplace equity.
Marketing Events Manager
Rekor Recognition Systems
Columbia , Maryland
06.2022 - 11.2024
- Manage and support events that drive revenue and position Rekor as a thought leader. Oversee all logistical aspects, including contracting, vendor negotiations, and event execution. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop event strategies, set goals, and implement best practices, including ROI models. Lead pre- and post-event evaluations to ensure continuous improvement. Provide onsite leadership, managing budgets, calendars, and project plans while ensuring seamless event delivery.
Director of Private Events
Johns Hopkins University Sheridan Libraries
Baltimore, Maryland
02.2019 - 06.2022
- Directed the JHU Libraries & Museums’ Private Events Program, overseeing 150+ events annually and exceeding revenue targets. Led budgeting, vendor negotiations, and stakeholder relations to drive growth. Built strategic partnerships and advised on space utilization to expand impact.
Operations and Rentals Manager
Creative Alliance
Baltimore , Maryland
03.2016 - 02.2019
- Managed operations and logistics for Patterson Theater, ensuring safety, security, and compliance for daily functions and events. Led hiring and training of security staff, collaborated on building improvements, and directed a self-sustaining rental program. Mentored a team of 16, driving revenue growth through expanded concession and bar programs.
Private Events Assistant
Johns Hopkins University Sheridan Libraries
Balitmore, Maryland
08.2013 - 03.2016
- Coordinated 100+ annual rentals, optimizing scheduling, invoicing, and vendor relationships. Managed contracts, enhanced social media presence, and recruited event staff. Maintained venue readiness, tracked supplies, and gathered post-event feedback for continuous improvement.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Harp Performance
Johns Hopkins University Peabody Institute
Baltimore, MD05-2013
Certificate - Management Development
Johns Hopkins Carey Business
Baltimore, MD10-2022
Skills
- Event planning
- Budget management
- Vendor negotiation
- Project management
- Logistics coordination
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Problem solving
- ROI strategies
- Lead generation
- Diversity initiatives
Accomplishments
Rekor’s Excellence Everyday Award Recipient
Timeline
Global Engagement & Event Manager
Rekor
11.2024 - Current
EmpWR: Women of Rekor Communications Lead
Rekor Recognition Systems
07.2023 - Current
Marketing Events Manager
Rekor Recognition Systems
06.2022 - 11.2024
Director of Private Events
Johns Hopkins University Sheridan Libraries
02.2019 - 06.2022
Operations and Rentals Manager
Creative Alliance
03.2016 - 02.2019
Private Events Assistant
Johns Hopkins University Sheridan Libraries
08.2013 - 03.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Harp Performance
Johns Hopkins University Peabody Institute
Certificate - Management Development
Johns Hopkins Carey Business
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