Stephanie Swanson
Tampa,FL
Summary
Event and festival director with 20+ years of experience producing large-scale, high-impact events and leading cross-functional teams. Proven ability to grow attendance, increase revenue, and manage complex operations across multi-day, multi-location productions. Expertise in logistics, team leadership, and stakeholder coordination. Recently concluded a decade-long leadership role directing a nationally recognized festival and seeking to bring this experience into a dynamic, fast-paced organization.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Disc Jockey /Music Producer
GruvGrl Productions (Self-Employed)
International
2001 - Current
- Perform at festivals, venues, and private events, creating engaging, high-energy environments
- Operated advanced sound equipment ensuring optimal audio quality during performances.
- Developed strong relationships with clients to customize event experiences effectively.
- Curated extensive music playlists tailored to diverse audience preferences.
- Built multiple long-term residencies and brand presence through marketing and audience engagement.
- Manage personal brand, social media, and promotional strategy
- National reporter for Billboard Music Dance Chart
Festival Director
Miami Beach Pride
Miami Beach, FL
04.2014 - 06.2025
- Lead full-scale production of one of the nation’s premier Pride festivals, growing attendance to 175,000+ attendees
- Manage 100+ staff and volunteers across logistics, sponsorship, marketing, vendor relations, and operations
- Oversee event execution spanning 5+ city blocks, including a parade and multi-day programming
- Increased annual budget from $500K to $1.5M through strategic sponsorship growth and financial management
- Managed board-approved budgets and presented executive reports
- Direct permitting, city coordination, public safety planning, and compliance with local agencies
- Build and maintain high-value partnerships with sponsors, vendors, and community stakeholders
- Created detailed event schedules and timelines, ensuring a smooth flow of activities and performances throughout the festival duration.
- Evaluated post-festival feedback surveys for continuous improvement of future events based on attendee insights and preferences.
- Increased overall event efficiency by streamlining communication channels and improving coordination among team members.
- Evaluated existing plans, processes and events planning services to identify opportunities for improvement.
Festival Co-Chair
Indy Pride, Inc
Indianapolis, IN
06.2011 - 06.2013
- Led planning and execution of a week-long Pride festival and parade with 85,000+ attendees
- Managed 40+ committee leaders and coordinated 400+ volunteers across multiple departments
- Directed sponsorship development, vendor management, and event logistics
- Partnered with city and state agencies to secure permits and ensure compliance
- Served as public spokesperson and media liaison
- Developed and managed board-approved budgets and presented executive reports
Operations & Event Management
Talbott Street Nightclub
Indianapolis, IN
2003 - 2013
- Managed day-to-day operations, staffing, inventory, and financial reporting
- Planned and executed themed events and private functions
- Led hiring, training, and staff development programs
- Oversaw vendor relationships and procurement processes
- Maintained high standards of customer experience in fast-paced environments
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Kinesiology / Athletic Training
Indiana University
IN2002
Bachelor of Science - Financial Planning
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY1994
Skills
- Event & Festival Production
- Operations & Logistics Management
- Team Leadership & Staff Development
- Sponsorship & Partnership Development
- Budgeting & Financial Oversight
- Vendor & Stakeholder Management
- Marketing, PR & Brand Strategy
- Public Safety & Permitting Coordination
Certification
- ServSafe Certified
- Former Board Member, Indy Pride, Inc.
- Former Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC)
- Multiple academic scholarships and honors
Timeline
Festival Director
Miami Beach Pride
04.2014 - 06.2025
Festival Co-Chair
Indy Pride, Inc
06.2011 - 06.2013
Disc Jockey /Music Producer
GruvGrl Productions (Self-Employed)
2001 - Current
Operations & Event Management
Talbott Street Nightclub
2003 - 2013
Bachelor of Science - Kinesiology / Athletic Training
Indiana University
Bachelor of Science - Financial Planning
Western Kentucky University