Sonia Naeemi

Experience

• 

  Cerise Fine Catering at Beanfield Centre

  Jan 2013 - Jun 2018

  • Achieved record-breaking upsell of 48% by combining my ability to partner with the client to truly understand their needs, having an in-depth understanding of the goods and service options available, and pairing the 2 together with a genuine desire to help the client with the success of each and every event.• Orchestrated a full range of logistical components for complex, large-scale events, providing end-to-end project management of exhibit and creative design, vendor/venue selection, attendee marketing, lead management.• Consistently implemented creative ways to increase the sales of banquet and meeting facilities through added value client propositions.• Implemented system to manage, respond and distribute client feedback to various departments to improve services for future events.• Managed successful booking and execution of trade shows, conventions, galas, religious services, small meetings, sporting events, and banquets - an average of 10 events per month, ranging from 1,000 to 150,000 sq.ft. Of meeting/exhibit space, $2,000 to $500,000 in revenue, and 5 to 5,000 attendees.• Championed the planning and coordination of special events designed to enhance the Beanfield Centre’s public image and to further enhance awareness to planners and potential clients.• Led client meetings, tastings, and facility walk-through and production meetings for upcoming events.• Reviewed labor cost, food cost, beverage cost and margin items to ensure budget alignment.• Processed post-event summaries, invoices, and critiqued execution of events for general client service satisfaction. Show less

  • Senior Catering Sales Manager

    Mar 2017 - Jun 2018

  • Catering Sales Manager

    Jan 2013 - Mar 2017
• 

  Independent Event Consultant

  Jun 2018 - May 2021

  Event Project Manager

  • Oversaw all stages of the event life cycle, from strategic planning, vendor negotiations, staffing, and reconciliation.• Established and maintained client and suppliers relationship, managed operational and administrative functions to ensure events are delivered efficiently.• Addressed scope changes and minimized the impact of such changes as relates to schedules, budget and risk.• Ensure and maintain the integrity of client's brand and guarantee their project is delivered with the highest level of quality and customer service, while working within budget parameters and project deadlines.• Consulted with several clients to assist in both the planning and execution of a variety of events including weddings, festivals, fundraisers and galas.• Helped to secure appropriate venues suited to the specific needs of the event.• Assisted with negotiations and contracting various suppliers to ensure event success within budgetary constraints.• Implemented various processes to help organize and track all aspects of the event from the initial stages, through planning, execution, wrap up and follow up.• Directed onsite delegation to ensure flawless execution and rapid recovery for any challenges.• Provided onsite and virtual consulting to assist with team development to maximize efficiencies, client satisfaction and successful event execution. Show less

• 

  BMO Global Asset Management - Canada

  Jun 2021 - Feb 2023

  Strategic Communication Coordinator

  • 45% Continuing Education Management:o Obtain CE accreditation from various professional associations.o Manage CE content and an online portal.o Manage pre-recorded and live CE webcasts.o Manage CE fulfillment for in-person events (roadshows, regional events).o Respond to CE inquiries from sales and advisors.o Maintain CE content summaries and status reports.o Identify CE content and promotional opportunities.o Primary event manager for virtual events including managing the project team through the entire project lifecycle.o Work with Senior Associate to analyze CE user data and identify sales opportunities.• 45% Institutional Sales Support & Enablement:o Communications: Weekly team email, Annual KYC, annual client gift.o Event management: Virtual events, PM tours, client events, conferences.o Quarterly institutional product profile production.o Oversight of BMO GAM Canada institutional website to ensure up-to-date content.o End to End Project management of the live and pre-record production of each conference.• 10% Change & Project Management:o Establish contacts in distribution channels to partner effectively on initiatives requiring buy-in.o Ensure consistency in delivery, timing and presentation of deliverables.o Provide input on improving sales support and enablement.o Evolve Continuing Education portal (content and structure) and leverage data to recommend new communications programs for key target audiences.o Act as back-up for key initiatives for others on the team.o Align work to BMO Purpose and values with a focus on customer experienceo Ensure sales enablement solutions are aligned with BMO strategic priorities, project objectives and existing business processes. Show less

• 

  BMO

  Feb 2023 - now

  Workplace Experience Manager

  • Successfully created and managed BMO Place's wellness program, offering yoga, kickboxing, and meditation to enhance employee well-being• Served as the primary point of contact for all BMO Place employees, addressing their needs, questions, and concerns, and ensuring their experience was top-notc• Coordinated with various tenant businesses to optimize the building experience and prioritize usage of spaces based on needs and seniority, ensuring a pleasant and efficient workplace environment• Efficiently managed catering and hospitality needs for team events and meetings• Worked closely with Wellness Advisors in HR, Tenant LOB Wellness Ambassadors, and ERGs to optimize usage of the Wellness Centre by booking spaces and events• Developed effective communication channels to minimize the impact of events/meetings on employees' daily routines, making sure everyone was informed and prepared• Co-chaired the BUC (BMOP User Committee) and acted as the main conduit for all operating groups (BGIS, CF, Security), ensuring smooth collaboration and communication among all parties• Assisted in security badging/building access for non-BMO visitors, maintaining a safe and secure environment for all• Liaised with Security and BGIS teams for consistency, ensuring that the building was always secure and well-maintained, and any issues were addressed promptly• Prioritized usage of space, ensuring onsite tenants had first access before external tenants, and being flexible and smart about the choice of room selection, maximizing the efficiency and productivity of the building• Created and implemented an effective process for monthly events that were critical to the success of the space• Established a clean and efficient process to distribute information to all BMOP tenants, keeping everyone informed and engaged• Issued clear and concise communication to all tenants when advising of upcoming activities or events, ensuring everyone was informed and involved in the community Show less