CONNECTING PEOPLE AND PLACES TO CREATE MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES As an accomplished hospitality professional, I offer management-level expertise and apply creative new strategies in destination management, tourism, special events production, marketing, retail promotions, association administration and “Main Street” business practices.I've successfully led several organizations to achieve their greatest visibility and profits. A lifelong Northern Illinois resident, I have deep local media, government and destination insights. I take great pride in maintaining a fun, positive, collaborative workplace environment, crafting innovative new solutions and memorable moments for guests. CAREER HIGHLIGHTS*Earned Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) credentials from Destinations International.* Earned the “Friend of Tourism Award” from “Visit Lake County”, Lake County Illinois’ Convention & Tourism Bureau, for community advocacy, partner recruiting and marketing committee work* Produced 50+ Themed Festivals & Fairs attended by up to 15,000 guests per day, all self-funded and profitable* Contracted and negotiated 40+ facility rentals per year, with revenues of 800K+ from operators of trade shows, conventions, concerts, sports, motorsports, corporate events, community groups and government organizations.* Raised business and property rental revenues 10-20% annually* Created profitable fundraising programs, including the Lake County Craft Beer Festival (25K+), Mundelein Guitar Festival(25K+), golf outings, auctions, dinners & entertainment, membership drives & sponsor platforms* Contracted a diversified mix of musical acts & family attractions to great reviews* Enhanced public perception using targeted PR, marketing, negotiated media and social media strategies* Designed and incorporated two new non-profit organizations and an SSA tax funding district, structured membership and education programs, recruited new businesses, retail promotions, steered award-winning public improvements for municipalities.