Melissa Edwards, Cmp, Des Email & Phone Number

As a detail-focused and highly organized professional with experience leading and supporting event planners and managers in driving event coordination and execution, I possess a wide range of knowledge and experience planning, managing, and implementing events according to all logistic and business needs of an organization.I am an innovative global event strategist with over 18 years of extensive involvement and proven success creating signature events that drive leads, enhance pipelines, and deliver brand favorability. As a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Digital Event Strategist (DES), I have a solid career history driving global event strategies, plans, and budgets both virtually and in-person. My background spans excellent experience providing strategic development, management, positioning, implementation, and overall results of the society’s meetings and associated educational programs. I also have a proven dedication to propelling successful events and a keen ability to establish lasting and profitable vendor relationships. My qualifications and recent career highlights include:✓ An impressive portfolio of previously managed global events (meetings, parties, brand launches, corporate events).✓ Track record executing unique, creative, and strategic events globally in the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.✓ Selected as an events team volunteer for the 2021 Meeting Professionals International World Education Congress.✓ Managed and led the successful initiative to secure a cancellation insurance refund in response to Hurricane Ian.✓ Exceeded stakeholder expectations on revenue and attendance with the first Virtual Innovation Program.✓ Reduced over $700,000 in COVID-19 cancellation penalties through contract renegotiations.✓ Experience overseeing all aspects of meetings including site selection, budget administration, vendor/contract negotiation, catering, marketing materials, participant registration, audio/visual equipment, travel itineraries, and on-site transportation.✓ Background building solid relationships with vendors, managers, caterers, and hotel and convention personnel through effective interpersonal, communication, and leadership abilities.I have an extensive background working with globally diverse volunteers, partner organizations, satellite offices, and staff. I look forward to expanding my LinkedIn network and connecting with more industry professionals.

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  Virginia Tech

  Communications: Major - Public Relations/Minor - Marketing