Red Rock Finance Conference
My Role
As an Event Planner for Brigham Young University’s Finance Department, I successfully organized and executed both small departmental gatherings and large-scale conferences. I coordinated a variety of event logistics, including venue reservations, catering services, and branded swag selection, ensuring a cohesive and engaging experience for attendees. I collaborated closely with vendors, musicians, and academic professionals, facilitating smooth communication and alignment with event goals. Additionally, I managed event agendas and schedules, overseeing every detail to ensure seamless execution. This role strengthened my organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to coordinate complex events with diverse stakeholders.
What did I do?
1
Event Logistics and Coordination
I organized the essential aspects of each event, handling everything from venue reservations to selecting and ordering branded swag. This involved managing all logistical details—catering, décor, supplies—to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for attendees. My focus on proactive planning and attention to detail allowed me to keep each event running smoothly.
2
Vendor and Stakeholder Communication
I worked closely with vendors, such as caterers, musicians, and venue representatives, to secure services that met our event standards and timelines. I also coordinated with professors and industry professionals, aligning on objectives and organizing their involvement. This role taught me how to build positive relationships and ensure clear, consistent communication among all parties.
3
Agenda and Schedule Management
For multi-day conferences, I developed and maintained detailed event agendas, coordinated meeting times, and ensured participants were informed of the program structure. This task highlighted my organizational and time-management skills, as I created a structured flow that kept the event on track and ensured a positive experience for everyone involved.
When did I do it?
January 2022-December 2024
What I've learned
During this role, I gained invaluable experience in designing impactful experiences and honing my problem-solving skills. I developed strong organizational and project management abilities, especially in planning and executing events under tight deadlines.
One of the highlights of this position was training two new event planners, which taught me the importance of clear communication, adaptability, and fostering confidence in new team members. This experience deepened my understanding of effective mentorship and team collaboration.
I also learned how to create an inclusive environment where team members felt heard and valued, ensuring our collective ideas translated into seamless and successful conferences. When challenges arose, I took charge, maintained resilience, and focused on solutions rather than setbacks.
Additionally, I continually sought ways to improve conference processes, identifying opportunities to simplify and streamline operations for greater efficiency. This proactive approach not only enhanced the events but also refined my ability to implement practical improvements.
Experience Design Principles Used
Design Thinking Method
I frequently applied the design thinking methodology to identify innovative ways to enhance the conference experience. This approach encouraged me to explore creative and unconventional ideas, remaining open to solutions that might initially seem ambitious or outside the box. By embracing this mindset, I was able to continually find opportunities for improvement and deliver meaningful, impactful results.
Journey Mapping
I utilized Journey Mapping to view the conference experience from the perspective of attendees. This approach allowed me to anticipate their needs, identify potential pain points, and proactively address challenges before the event began, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Agile Project Management
Serving as the lead event planner for two years provided me with extensive experience in Agile project management and team collaboration. I approached our event by breaking down large projects into manageable tasks and delegating them across the team. This method ensured that responsibilities were clearly defined and achievable, fostering productivity and preventing team overwhelm. By maintaining this structured yet flexible approach, we consistently delivered high-quality results on time.
Gallery
Red Rock Through the Years
