Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Community Service
Timeline
Generic
Megan M. Cornett

Megan M. Cornett

Atlanta,GA

Summary

Focused and driven event management professional offering over 10 years of experience in event services, trade show/conference operations and the hospitality industry. During my tenure, I have taken on the responsibility of all aspects of event logistics for assigned productions. Encompassing on-site staff supervision, venue liaison, upholding company standards and keeping the production on schedule while providing efficient execution of events with control on cost and respect of established budgets.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience

Work History

Events Director, Logistics and Operations

Fintech Nexus
Atlanta, GA
11.2021 - 06.2023
  • Collaborated across functional teams to meticulously plan, organize, and orchestrate highly successful events, encompassing trade shows, conferences, and special events.
  • Managed end-to-end event operations, encompassing registration platform set up, meticulous venue selection, audiovisual setup, catering arrangements, transportation logistics, accommodations and any special event needs.
  • Cultivated and nurtured robust relationships with clients, vendors, and stakeholders, ensuring seamless event delivery and customer satisfaction.
  • Negotiated contracts with venues, suppliers, and service providers, effectively securing cost-effective solutions while optimizing event return on investment (ROI).
  • Conducted comprehensive event needs assessments, involving internal teams and external partners, to discern requirements, establish objectives, and craft tailored event strategies aligned with broader organizational goals.
  • Exhibited meticulous financial acumen by overseeing event budgets, diligently tracking expenses, forecasting costs, and identifying opportunities for cost optimization.

Special Events Manager

Southbound
Atlanta, GA
05.2021 - 05.2022
  • Managed and orchestrated all facets of private events, such as weddings, corporate functions, and social gatherings, within a bustling restaurant environment.
  • Collaborated closely with clients to curate personalized event packages, showcasing meticulous attention to detail in menu selection, beverage options, decor, and entertainment choices.
  • Conducted informative site visits, affording clients the opportunity to experience event spaces firsthand, discuss layouts, and address specific requests or concerns.
  • Synchronized efforts with culinary and service teams to ensure flawless event execution, upholding a consistent standard of service excellence and unwavering commitment to quality.
  • Demonstrated astute financial stewardship by managing event budgets, diligently tracking expenses, and recommending cost-effective solutions without compromising the overall guest experience.
  • Efficiently oversaw event setup and breakdown, meticulously coordinating all elements such as table arrangements, audiovisual equipment, and decorations to ensure prompt and seamless execution.

Customer Service Manager

REIT Funding
Atlanta, GA
08.2020 - 08.2021

This position was during Covid and event related positions were not accessible.

  • Maintained a detailed understanding of products and services and assisted customers with questions.
  • Assisted customers as needed with setting up and navigating programs associated with their accounts.
  • Responded and resolved customer queries and complaints in a timely and accurate way, via phone, email, online meetings, or chat and kept detailed records.
  • Followed up with customers to ensure issues were resolved
  • Continually identified work-process improvement.
  • Supported the sales effort, particularly for large deals or partnerships.

Client Solutions Manager

Freeman Event Technology
Austin, TX
09.2018 - 07.2020
  • Delivered a diverse range of trade shows and conferences, leveraging expertise in project management and operational proficiency from the initial sales process through to seamless event execution.
  • Responsible for event technology and audiovisual logistics, ensuring flawless integration and optimal utilization throughout all events.
  • Oversaw on-site staff supervision, served as the primary point of contact for clients, and fostered collaborative partnerships with diverse vendors to guarantee the success of each production.
  • Engaged clients in insightful discussions to identify challenges and strategize effective technology and digital solutions tailored to their specific event objectives.
  • Proactively generated leads for event technology and audiovisual services, conducting meetings with prospective customers and delivering compelling sales presentations that consistently surpass expectations.
  • Exhibited efficient event execution, meticulously controlling costs and adhering to established budgets without compromising on the quality or impact of the event experience.

Event Operations Manager

Emerald Expositions
Alpharetta, GA
06.2014 - 08.2018
  • Organized and executed pre-show planning, on-site logistics for meetings, seminar programs, and trade shows, ensuring seamless operations and exceptional exhibitor/attendee experiences.
  • Effectively managed all show requirements with vendors, encompassing catering, audiovisual services, transportation, staffing agencies, general service contractors, and various other vendors as needed, while maintaining cost-effectiveness within budget guidelines and ROI goals.
  • Managed sponsorship fulfillment. Providing pricing details for new sponsorship concepts, fostering strong relationships with sponsors and maximizing revenue opportunities.
  • Skillfully negotiated contracts with facilities, hotels and other associated vendors to secure favorable terms and meet show requirements.
  • Implemented the production of exhibitor service manuals and all event-related forms, providing comprehensive resources to participants. Including floor plan configuration and finalized event layout for optimal flow and attendee engagement.
  • Developed, managed, and improved operational budget requirements for multiple trade shows annually, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and adherence to financial constraints.

Meetings Coordinator

MedAssets
Alpharetta, GA
11.2013 - 05.2014
  • Streamlined and expertly managed the registration process for conference attendees, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience.
  • Maintained accurate attendee accounting records, diligently processing payments and refunds associated with annual conferences.
  • Delivered exceptional onsite meeting support for attendees and exhibitors, resolving any registration-related issues promptly and effectively.
  • Managed pre-event customer service inquiries for all conference attendees and exhibitors. Including resource materials and vendor information for onsite event needs.
  • Organized attendee accommodations, as well as ground and air transportation, meticulously coordinating logistics to ensure smooth and hassle-free travel experiences.
  • Actively participated in industry events, fostering professional growth and staying abreast of industry trends and best practices.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - International Affairs

Georgia State University
2012

Skills

  • Microsoft Office Suite
  • Adobe
  • Salesforce
  • Floor Plan Management Software
  • Event Planning and Production
  • Contract Negotiation
  • Budget Management and Reconciliation

Affiliations

IAEE

PCMA

Community Service

March of Dimes, March for Babies 

Cupids Charity

Children's Tumor Foundation

Timeline

Events Director, Logistics and Operations

Fintech Nexus
11.2021 - 06.2023

Special Events Manager

Southbound
05.2021 - 05.2022

Customer Service Manager

REIT Funding
08.2020 - 08.2021

Client Solutions Manager

Freeman Event Technology
09.2018 - 07.2020

Event Operations Manager

Emerald Expositions
06.2014 - 08.2018

Meetings Coordinator

MedAssets
11.2013 - 05.2014

Bachelor of Arts - International Affairs

Georgia State University
Megan M. Cornett