Experience

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  CIBPA - Canadian Italian Business Professionals Association

  • Toronto, Ontario, Canada

  • Executive Director

    • Sep 2023 - Present
    • Toronto, Ontario, Canada

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  SUZIE DG EVENTS+DESIGN

  • Vaughan, Ontario, Canada

  • Chief Creative Officer

    • Jan 2017 - Present
    • Vaughan, Ontario, Canada

    SUZIE DG EVENTS+DESIGN is a full service event production and design firm with a mission to imbue every project with unique vision and sophistication. Our clients are our passion and their experience is our main priority as we provide them with unparalleled service and professionalism. www.suziedg.com

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  Vaughan Chamber of Commerce

  • Events Officer

    • Jan 2015 - Jan 2017

    • Doubled attendance and revenue at monthly networking events by executing engaging programming and creating partnerships with popular venues who provided in kind sponsorship to supplement the operating budget • Provided deliverable deadline guidance for logistics/marketing/signage and ensured critical deadlines were communicated, tracked and met via a deliverables timeline• Clearly communicated objectives, project status and updates to board and committee members on a regular and consistent basis• Prepared and managed budgets for all signature and networking events, reconciled invoices/PO in a timely manner to ensure accuracy• Maintained and tracked attendee lists using membership management software and troubleshot any issues with database • Coordinated on-site exhibit setup for trade shows and managed booth sales -- identifying the best options for placement of vendors • Managed scheduling and production of all finalist video shoots for annual Business Awards• Talent liaison for Kevin O’Leary of ABC’s “Shark Tank,” and Stage Manager for Business Awards • Coordinated all logistics for speakers/talent such as, AV requirements, hotel accommodations, ground transportation, etc.• Ensured the development and implementation of technical production (e.g., audio, lighting, video, etc.)• Coordinated site décor including, linens, chairs, centerpieces, etc. • Arranged for sign production as well as hardware procurement options • Oversaw inventory, storage and safe operation of equipment and supplies owned by the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce

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  Newmarket Chamber of Commerce

  • Events and Marketing Coordinator

    • Jan 2013 - Jan 2015

    The York Region Business Innovation in Changing Times Conference Series is focused on providing the business community with the opportunity to learn, network and access ideas, insight and resources to help them succeed in a fast-changing marketplace. These events are driven by a focus on emerging strategic trends and issues for business and community leaders related to business growth, competitiveness, innovation and economic development. Since 2011, the successful conference series has held events with high profile presenters in a dynamic and interactive format, attracting more than 2,400 attendees.• Managed events calendar and scheduling of conference dates • Prepared necessary promotional, marketing copy & materials for events• Developed print & online promotional materials with Adobe Creative Suite• Oversaw social media and website content management• Developed grant proposals, persuasively communicating the organization’s mission and programs to potential funders• Cultivated and maintained successful relationships with all stakeholders • Sponsor relationship management• Event related invoicing and Account Receivables• Maintained/troubleshot attendee database using client relationship management (CRM) software• Responsible for the selection and booking of venues, catering, AV etc.• Sourced speakers and coordinated speakers’ logistics • Actively participated in committee meetings to shape conference programs

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  Fuda Fine Foods

  • Marketing and Communications Manager

    • Dec 2010 - Jan 2013

    • Produced in-store promotional events, including VIP appearance by The Food Network’s Massimo Capra • Arranged print, radio and television coverage for Grand Opening and other special events• In a high-level customer service role, addressed catering clients’ unique wishes and changing needs as planner for their events• Experience in brand activation, innovation and creative development, including creation of Fuda logo and slogan, “Love Food. Love Fuda.”• Led and developed strong Integrated Marketing Campaigns with external agency partners • Supervised the day-to-day operation of all assigned staff, including the scheduling, assigning and reviewing of work, authorizing and coordinating vacation and overtime requests, monitoring and evaluating staff performance, hearing grievances and recommending disciplinary action when necessary• Designed marketing materials using Adobe Creative Suite• Responsible for overall design of the high-end retail space including virtual renderings, sourcing lighting, custom millwork, flooring and other interior materials and finishes, project scheduling and administration, budgeting and coordination of trades

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  Toronto International Film Festival

  • Toronto, Canada Area

  • Volunteer Captain

    • 2010 - 2013
    • Toronto, Canada Area

    • Responsible for ensuring TIFF activity outside the Festival Venues was organized and orderly, including effective allocation of volunteer resources•Liaised with Ticketing Staff, Reps, Security, etc. while managing multiple lineups and crowds•Created multiple post event reports, submitted at the end of each shift

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  City of Toronto

  • Toronto, Canada Area

  • Production Assistant and Communications Lead - City of Toronto Special Events

    • Jan 2009 - Oct 2009
    • Toronto, Canada Area

    • Assisted in the planning and execution of Scotiabank Nuit Blanche• Managed team dedicated to facilitating the operation of the central headquarters and all communications for Scotiabank Nuit Blanche• Prepared Q’S and A’s for the Media Spokesperson• Liaised with vendors, venues, artists, etc. to coordinate logistical requirements• Drafted street closure maps and site plans using AutoCAD• Produced and maintained all production binders • Developed and maintained production database using Microsoft Access• Revised critical path and production schedules with Microsoft Excel