Susan Van Niekerk
Las Vegas,NV
Summary
Strategic, solutions-oriented executive support and operations leader with 5+ years of experience optimizing administrative systems, streamlining communication, and building high-performing remote teams. Adept in people management, recruiting, and project delivery in dynamic environments. Passionate about building cohesive cultures, managing complex logistics, and creating lasting stakeholder impact.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Executive Assistant | Head of People & Events
Gokhale Method
09.2019 - Current
- Manage calendars, meetings, travel, and project logistics with a focus on efficiency and detail.
- Coordinate and execute events, ensuring smooth operations and participant satisfaction.
- Established a remote Support team that align with company values, enhancing client engagement and operational efficiency.
- Oversee recruitment, HR reviews, and conflict resolution while enhancing productivity and fostering a collaborative and respectful team environment. Mentor and support franchise teachers as business partners, improving overall satisfaction, productivity, and alignment with organizational goals.
Events Coordinator | Admin
SMF Events
03.2015 - 07.2019
- Organized and executed seamless race events for 500+ participants, managing budgets, permits, and teams to ensure smooth operations and enjoyable experiences.
- Built strong relationships with sponsors, stakeholders, and participants,delivering excellent customer service and driving repeat participation.
- Led and motivated teams, adapting to new information to maintain focus and ensure event success
Education
B.A. - Psychology
San Francisco State University
San Francisco12.2002
B.A. - Special Major - Holistic Health
San Francisco State University
San Francisco, CA12.2002
Skills
- Executive & Team Support
- People Management & Recruitment
- Event Planning & Coordination
- Remote Team Development
- Cross-functional Collaboration
- Written & Verbal Communication
- Conflict Resolution & Mediation
- Strategic Problem Solving
Accomplishments
- Spearheaded full website overhaul including rewritten content, multimedia elements,
and improved UX design, resulting in a 20% increase in user engagement. - Built and led a remote support team aligned with company values, enhancing service
delivery and internal communication. - Oversaw recruitment and HR reviews for internal staff, achieving zero turnover
through strategic hiring and strong team alignment. - Supported 40+ franchise teachers as business partners; provided compliance
guidance, business coaching, and team-building support. - Transitioned company offerings from in-person to virtual platforms during the
pandemic, preserving revenue and expanding reach. - Produced high-quality public television show for APT, managing timelines,
coordination, and delivery logistics. - Directed successful online and in-person events including workshops and webinars,
improving conversion rates from 5% to 10%.
Certification
SHRM-CP, Certified Professional, Society for Human Resource Management
Personal Information
Hobbies: Reading dystopian and fantasy novels, kayaking and paddleboarding, animal rescue advocacy, human behavior studies
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Executive Assistant | Head of People & Events
Gokhale Method
09.2019 - Current
Events Coordinator | Admin
SMF Events
03.2015 - 07.2019
B.A. - Psychology
San Francisco State University
B.A. - Special Major - Holistic Health
San Francisco State University
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