Michelle Gallagher
Toronto,ON
Summary
Results-driven Event Production Leader with extensive experience managing budgets and leading teams. Delivered over 100 international events that enhanced brand visibility and operational efficiency. Skilled in strategic planning, performance optimization, and leveraging technology to streamline processes. Expertise in developing operational strategies and fostering relationships to drive growth and achieve organizational objectives.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Director, Event Production
Mosaic Sales Solutions
Toronto
11.2021 - Current
- Developed and coordinated detailed event plans including scope development, budget planning, and risk management.
- Oversaw professional services contracts and managed event logistics documentation to ensure seamless execution.
- Provided project management tracking, research, meeting management, and technical support.
- Monitored event expenditures to maintain compliance with budget limitations and optimize financial resources.
- Ensured teamwork, communication, and organizational performance.
- Coordinated training programs to enhance team members' brand representation skills, fostering a cohesive brand image.
- Analyzed market trends to inform product positioning and promotional strategies.
Venue Manager
Elevate Tech Festival
Toronto
05.2019 - 10.2020
- Led planning and operations of the main stage.
- Managed menu development, floor plans, and event rundowns to enhance guest experience.
- Developed load-in and load-out schedules for multiple activations to streamline logistics.
- Created security plans for several VIP events including Michelle Obama.
- Coordinated programming, partner relations, and event teams to ensure seamless event execution.
Sr. Event Manager
Elevate and Design Exchange
Toronto
10.2019 - 08.2020
- Led the merger of Design Exchange and Elevate and pivoted to digital events.
- Built remote‑work systems and event management databases, supporting seamless transitions to virtual events.
- Developed comprehensive COVID‑19 safety protocol for staff and visitors, enhancing safety measures during events.
- Led RFP processes for building operations, catering, event management, and AV, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.
Director of Special Events
SheEO
Toronto
01.2018 - 08.2019
- Executed 100+ events across 5 countries, enhancing brand visibility and engagement.
- Coordinated SheEO Summits across multiple countries, fostering collaboration and networking among leaders.
- Built and maintained budgets for 70+ events.
- Created policies, rundown templates, and budget templates.
Associate Director of Special Events
WE Day
Toronto
09.2016 - 03.2018
- Led planning and execution of WE Day special events, enhancing participant engagement and overall event success.
- Developed VIP, sponsor, and honoured guest experiences to ensure memorable interactions and strengthen partnerships.
- Built budgets, contracts, and yearly strategy documents.
- Conducted staff evaluations to identify performance strengths and development needs, fostering professional growth and team effectiveness. and skills development.
Events Operations Manager
The Distillery District
Toronto
06.2012 - 09.2016
- Liaised with clients and coordinated operations for up to 50 staff to ensure seamless event execution.
- Created schedules for weddings, fundraisers, and galas.
- Streamlined staff schedules to enhance service quality during events.
- Monitored inventory levels and placed orders to ensure adequate stock for events.
Manager, Operations & Logistics
Invictus Games Orlando 2016
01.2016
- Delivered 2,500 uniforms and supported distribution of 10,000 accreditation cards to ensure smooth event operations.
- Coordinated delivery of uniforms and accreditation, managed food and beverage services at events, and oversaw volunteer program.
- Developed volunteer program engaging 1,500 Disney volunteers to enhance event support.
- Liaised between Disney & Invictus for all F&B.
Deputy Venue Manager
Toronto 2015 Pan Am / Parapan Am Games
01.2015
- Coordinated 500+ volunteers for ceremonies, ensuring efficient operations.
- Organized deployment into 12 teams, addressing coverage gaps to maintain event flow.
- Delivered daily briefings incl. VIP activity & weather.
- Supported venue operations by managing ingress and egress processes for events.
Coordinator, Staffing & Scheduling
Toronto 2015 Pan Am / Parapan Am Games
01.2015
- Developed volunteer schedules for 7,000 participants, ensuring optimal coverage for events.
- Monitored volunteer attrition rates, informing staffing adjustments to meet operational demands.
- Coordinated East Roc roaming operations crew, enhancing logistical efficiency during events.
- Delivered role‑specific training including leadership trainers.
Education
Post Graduate Diploma - Media for Development
University of Winchester
Winchester England01.2009
Bachelor of Honours - International Development & Global Studies
Trent University
Peterborough On01.2006
Skills
- Problem Solver
- Flexible
- Budget management
- Cloud-tech
- Detail-oriented
- Time management
- Communication
- Organized
- Leadership
- Conflict Mgmt
- Change Mgmt
- Database Systems
Freelance Experience
I have supporting the following organizations in multiple planning and on site roles. Sundance, TIFF, Hot Docs, Toronto After Dark, CMT Music Festival, Luminato, Canadian Screen Awards and The Junos
Volunteer Experience
- International Red Cross
- Blood Services Canada
- Boys and Girls Club
- Action on Disability & Development
Timeline
Director, Event Production
Mosaic Sales Solutions
11.2021 - Current
Sr. Event Manager
Elevate and Design Exchange
10.2019 - 08.2020
Venue Manager
Elevate Tech Festival
05.2019 - 10.2020
Director of Special Events
SheEO
01.2018 - 08.2019
Associate Director of Special Events
WE Day
09.2016 - 03.2018
Manager, Operations & Logistics
Invictus Games Orlando 2016
01.2016
Deputy Venue Manager
Toronto 2015 Pan Am / Parapan Am Games
01.2015
Coordinator, Staffing & Scheduling
Toronto 2015 Pan Am / Parapan Am Games
01.2015
Events Operations Manager
The Distillery District
06.2012 - 09.2016
Post Graduate Diploma - Media for Development
University of Winchester
Bachelor of Honours - International Development & Global Studies
Trent University