Shade A. Lawson
Atlanta
Summary
Events Manager with over 10 years of experience in orchestrating high-quality group and conference events at a premier Hilton property. Demonstrated ability to manage upscale corporate and social gatherings while ensuring seamless coordination among hotel teams. Recognized for maintaining exceptional service standards and delivering personalized guest experiences in luxury settings.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Events Manager
Hilton Atlanta
Atlanta
04.2019 - Current
- Manage upscale group events of up to 1000 guest rooms, including corporate meetings, banquets, and multi-day conferences with meeting space, catering, and accommodations.
- Create, review, and execute detailed Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) to ensure flawless event delivery aligned with brand and luxury service standards.
- Serve as primary liaison between Senior Event Manager, Event Managers, and operational departments while groups are in-house.
- Plan and execute events spanning up to five days, ensuring seamless coordination of guest rooms, meals, amenities, and meeting logistics.
- Maintain strong client relationships through proactive communication, attention to detail, and personalized service.
- Assist with Hilton Honors points, amenities, commissions, and rebates to enhance guest loyalty and satisfaction.
- Train and onboard new Events Administrative staff and Events Managers, reinforcing service excellence and operational consistency.
Events Administrator
Hilton Atlanta
Atlanta
09.2013 - 04.2019
- Supported Event Managers in the planning and execution of group and conference business in a high-volume hotel environment.
- Coordinated with sales, catering, finance, and operations to resolve administrative and operational issues efficiently.
- Processed and managed client documentation including credit card authorizations, pickup history requests, and post-event reports.
- Prepared and distributed bi-weekly payroll, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company policies.
- Maintained meticulous records to support contracts, billing accuracy, and post-event evaluations.
Rooms Coordinator
Hilton Atlanta
Atlanta
12.2012 - 09.2013
- Coordinated daily airline and group room assignments to maximize room utilization and guest satisfaction.
- Managed logistics for contracted group rooms, ensuring close proximity and smooth arrivals for attendees.
- Prepared meeting spaces and guest rooms for site inspections and potential clients.
- Assisted guests with reservations, walk-ins, and late arrivals while maintaining a polished, service-focused demeanor.
Education
Master of Science - Justice Studies
Southern New Hampshire University
Hooksett, NH04-2020
Associate of Applied Science - Hospitality Administration
Southern New Hampshire University
Hooksett, NH08-2011
Skills
- Event Planning & Execution
- Group & Conference Management
- High-End Guest & Client Relations
- Banquet Event Orders (BEOs)
- Cross-Department Coordination
- Team Training & Supervision
- Vendor & Stakeholder Communication
- Payroll & Administrative Operations
- Hilton Systems & Hotel Operations
- Service Recovery & Problem Resolution
Volunteer Experience
Hilton Atlanta Blue Energy Community Outreach, 01/01/13, 12/31/20
Professional References
Available upon request
Timeline
Events Manager
Hilton Atlanta
04.2019 - Current
Events Administrator
Hilton Atlanta
09.2013 - 04.2019
Rooms Coordinator
Hilton Atlanta
12.2012 - 09.2013
Master of Science - Justice Studies
Southern New Hampshire University
Associate of Applied Science - Hospitality Administration
Southern New Hampshire University