Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Lisa Higdon

Summary

Qualified Event Manager with a strong background in event management. Successfully coordinated numerous high-profile events, ensuring seamless execution and client satisfaction. Demonstrated expertise in vendor negotiations and budget management, working collaboratively to deliver outstanding results.

Overview

28
28
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Event Manager

Stanford University
10.2022 - Current
  • Planned and executed 30+ events, such as seminars, workshops, conferences, and celebrations. and conferences.
  • Led and managed the event team charged with producing high-quality events.
  • Project leader on complex, large-scale, multi-day events
  • Managed budgets and negotiated contracts with vendors, ensuring cost-effective event execution.
  • Streamlined event planning processes by implementing efficient project management strategies.
  • Implemented innovative event themes and designs to create memorable experiences for attendees.
  • Established relationships with key stakeholders, fostering long-term partnerships for future collaborations.
  • Increased client satisfaction by consistently delivering well-executed events within budget constraints.
  • Collaborated closely with clients throughout the planning process to ensure their vision was accurately reflected in the final event layout.
  • Utilized social media platforms to engage potential attendees and promote upcoming events effectively.
  • Developed marketing materials and promotional campaigns to maximize event attendance and visibility.
  • Utilized CVENT to create event website, event registration, and budget tracking for each event.
  • Conducted post-event evaluations to gather insights, driving continuous improvement in event execution.
  • Enhanced team collaboration by developing comprehensive communication plans that kept all stakeholders informed and engaged.
  • Implemented sustainable practices in event planning and execution, reducing environmental impact and promoting social responsibility.
  • Leveraged technology to automate registration and attendee management, improving operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.
  • Negotiated contracts with venues to secure favorable terms, optimizing event profitability and attendee experience.
  • Coordinated with vendors to secure high-quality services, ensuring memorable event experiences.
  • Trained and supervised event staff to complete tasks on time.
  • Created detailed timelines and budgets for events to meet all deadlines.
  • Implemented contingency plans to address last-minute changes or unforeseen events.
  • Coordinated transportation and parking arrangements for guests and vendors.
  • Researched and identified new vendors and suppliers to obtain competitive pricing.
  • Negotiated contracts with venues, vendors, and suppliers to obtain best rates and services.

Administrative Associate 3

Stanford University
06.2018 - 10.2022
  • Managed confidential documents, safeguarding confidential information while maintaining strict adherence to privacy protocols.
  • Created and updated spreadsheets and reports to track, analyze, and report on key performance indicators..
  • Coordinated scheduling for meetings and appointments, ensuring optimal use of time and resources.
  • Plan Division events, including workshops and celebrations.
  • Enhanced team productivity with effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
  • Provided exceptional customer service to both internal and external clients, fostering strong professional relationships.
  • Streamlined office processes by implementing efficient organizational strategies and time-saving tools.
  • Collaborated with various departments to complete projects efficiently and effectively.
  • Monitored office inventory levels diligently to ensure supplies were consistently replenished before depletion occurred.
  • Contributed to budget management efforts by tracking expenditures and submitting timely expense reports.
  • Exceeded performance metrics consistently through dedication towards continuous improvement in all aspects related to the role.
  • Maintained up-to-date contact lists facilitating swift communications between relevant personnel when necessary.
  • Served as a liaison between employees and management to address concerns or issues promptly.
  • Maintained confidentiality of sensitive information, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations.
  • Coordinated travel arrangements for faculty, optimizing travel schedules and reducing costs.

Youth Soccer Coach

Barcelona Bay Area
01.2010 - 01.2020
  • Promoted good sportsmanship and fostered a positive team environment by modeling respectful behavior both on and off the field.
  • Promoted love of game by assisting players with understanding positioning, play techniques, and teamwork strategies.
  • Developed strong communication channels with parents, providing regular updates on player progress and addressing concerns promptly.
  • Provided mentorship to players, fostering personal growth alongside athletic development through guidance on topics such as leadership, teamwork, and discipline.
  • Negotiated field space from the City, Schools, and private sources for all games and practices for the league.
  • Managed league game schedule and referee scheduling

Document Control/Administrative Manager

Sgarlato Med, LLC
04.2015 - 06.2018

Ensured smooth daily operations with the timely completion of all essential administrative tasks and responsibilities.

  • Provided exceptional administrative support for executive-level staff, ensuring their needs were met promptly and accurately to facilitate smooth daily operations.
  • Supervised staff and delegated tasks to maintain positive, productive administrative operations.
  • Maintained accurate record-keeping systems to ensure easy access to critical information for decision-making purposes.
  • Updated reports, managed accounts, and generated reports.
  • Oversaw office inventory activities by ordering and receiving product shipments.
  • Fostered strong relationships with external vendors/partners to negotiate favorable contract terms that benefited both parties.

Marketing Communications Specialist

Shoretel Communications
09.1997 - 12.2002
  • Increased brand awareness by developing and implementing strategic marketing campaigns.
  • Managed successful trade show participation, resulting in increased leads and valuable industry connections, and coordinated with vendors, sales teams, and event staff.
  • Optimized booth layout for efficient space utilization and visitor flow management.
  • Enhanced brand visibility by collaborating with marketing teams to create engaging promotional materials.
  • Developed lasting business relationships through effective networking at industry events.
  • Established a standardized pre-show checklist process that streamlined preparation for every subsequent exhibition.
  • Streamlined event logistics by overseeing exhibit setup, teardown, and transportation.
  • Monitored and controlled event expenditures to meet budgets.
  • Coordinated travel and accommodations for event attendees.
  • Managed vendor relationships for outsourced creative services, ensuring timely delivery within budget constraints.
  • Implemented consistent branding across all channels, ensuring a cohesive message and professional image.
  • Interfaced with outside marketing vendors to promote projects, gather cost estimates, and deliver marketing materials for production.
  • Planned and executed promotional materials to drive brand consistency.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Business Administration, Marketing

San Jose State University
San Jose, CA

Skills

  • Team leadership & Event Staff Management
  • Schedule Management
  • Event Marketing and Planning
  • Corporate Branding
  • Vendor & Project Management
  • Budgeting and Finance
  • Vendor and Contract Negotiations
  • Travel Coordination

Certification

  • CVENT Certified
  • Manager's Academy, Stanford University, 2024

Timeline

Event Manager

Stanford University
10.2022 - Current

Administrative Associate 3

Stanford University
06.2018 - 10.2022

Document Control/Administrative Manager

Sgarlato Med, LLC
04.2015 - 06.2018

Youth Soccer Coach

Barcelona Bay Area
01.2010 - 01.2020

Marketing Communications Specialist

Shoretel Communications
09.1997 - 12.2002

Bachelor of Science - Business Administration, Marketing

San Jose State University