
Chris Elkins

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About me
Associate Director of Events and Experiences at UCF | M.S. Hospitality and Tourism Management | B.S. Entertainment Management
Education

Florida Atlantic University
-Certificate Hospitality and Tourism
University of Central Florida – Rosen College of Hospitality Management
2020 - 2021Hospitality and Tourism Management MS Hospitality Administration/Management 3.92The Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management enables students to build on their strengths and interests, broadens their knowledge of the industry; sharpens their management skills; and incorporates their professional and extracurricular experiences. The Rosen College of Hospitality Management candidates are especially attractive hires for hospitality and tourism organizations around the globe.The Hospitality and Tourism Management MS candidate:Is a professional… Show more The Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management enables students to build on their strengths and interests, broadens their knowledge of the industry; sharpens their management skills; and incorporates their professional and extracurricular experiences. The Rosen College of Hospitality Management candidates are especially attractive hires for hospitality and tourism organizations around the globe.The Hospitality and Tourism Management MS candidate:Is a professional working in a position related to hospitality, tourism or events.Holds an undergraduate degree in hospitality, business management, or a related discipline.Understands that advanced educational training is required to be competitive in thriving hospitality, tourism and event industry. Show less

New River Community College
2006 - 2011Associate's Degree General StudiesActivities and Societies: Phi Theta Kappa

University of Central Florida – Rosen College of Hospitality Management
2017 - 2018Bachelor’s Degree Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management 3.88Activities and Societies: Rosen College Leadership Council The Gregory Elias Entertainment Management Program will immerse students in the business side of entertainment in the key areas of design, engineering, operations, finance and marketing to equip them to identify, create and manage successful entertainment products. The program will also develop important management skills, including leadership, communication, critical thinking, problem solving and teamwork, to prepare graduates for management roles in private and non-profit organizations. Rosen… Show more The Gregory Elias Entertainment Management Program will immerse students in the business side of entertainment in the key areas of design, engineering, operations, finance and marketing to equip them to identify, create and manage successful entertainment products. The program will also develop important management skills, including leadership, communication, critical thinking, problem solving and teamwork, to prepare graduates for management roles in private and non-profit organizations. Rosen College’s location and industry relationships will ensure students benefit from exposure to national and global entertainment leaders in the classroom and superior internship and job placement opportunities.Graduates pursue careers in a variety of areas related to the entertainment industry, including live performances and events, digital media, film enterprises, tourism attractions, hospitality-related products, special events, sporting events and recreational or leisure activities. Show less

New River Community College
2013 - 2015Associate's Degree Business Administration and Management, General 3.65Activities and Societies: Phi Theta Kappa

University of Central Florida – Rosen College of Hospitality Management
-Certificate Event Management
Experience

Walt Disney World
Feb 2009 - Sept 2020• Demonstrated a passion for guest service by showcasing conflict resolution, problem solving, and decision-making skills• Represented the Walt Disney brand calmly and professionally, even during high stress situations • Efficiently performed duties on varying technology to assist with selling tickets, preparing payment plan contracts, making dining reservations, creating Fastpass itineraries, issuing refunds, and providing park and resort information for our Guests• Partnered with respective departments to effectively resolve issues, share ideas, and gain information regarding the operation• Proficient in systems including: ATS, Hera, MDX, Cast App, Lilo, MLE, Magic, A la Carte, Chargerback, and Hercules Show less • Builds relationships with ultra-high net worth clientele and ensures a extraordinary Disney experience as their personal guide• Coordinates and manages travel for high profile talent to ensure smooth special events and filmings at Walt Disney World• Solves problems under pressure by analyzing the situation, thinking strategically, and turning losses into wins • DOT certified driver with a valid Florida driver’s license responsible for transporting guests in company vehicles• Proficient in communication through phone calls, text messages, and email on both an Android and iPhone platforms• Organizes and coordinates daily itineraries lasting up to 14 hours for private groups of adults and children Show less • Created incredible guest memories while performing in many different shows and parades across Walt Disney World• Member of the Magic Kingdom Achieving Cast Excellence Committee and CARE Team which focuses on cast recognition and teambuilding as well as the Costuming/Cosmetology Committee which focuses on maintaining show quality elements• Actively displayed Four Keys Basics: Safety, Courtesy, Show and Efficiency, while performing in iconic Shows and Parades• Interpreted the different Collective Bargaining Agreements including Service Trades Council Union, and Actors-Equity Show less
Guest Relations Host
Aug 2018 - Sept 2020VIP Tour Guide
Mar 2018 - Sept 2020Performer
Feb 2009 - Mar 2018

Starbucks
Feb 2010 - Aug 2018Barista• Engaged in conflict resolution to ensure the Guests have a positive experience with each and every interaction• Manages several jobs at once, such as taking orders and cash handling in a fast-paced work environment• Initiates in relationship marketing by utilizing exceptional communication skills in person and on the telephone • Proficient in Starbucks POS software, headset equipment, and the constantly updating Starbucks mobile application

Royal Caribbean International
Jan 2012 - Aug 2012Production Cast Member• Created incredible guest memories while performing throughout the world in many different shows and parades onboard

Universal Orlando Resort
Aug 2013 - Sept 2018Performer• Performed in Halloween Horror Nights, the highest rated Halloween Event in the world, for 5 consecutive years

Manikin Model and Talent Agency
Jan 2019 - Mar 2020Talent Director• Responsible for talent acquisition, virtual interviewing, and all onboarding procedures to recruit new talent for ManiKin• Manages and maintains the Acuity Scheduling calendar for recruiting new talent for the agency • Inputs data and maintains all contact information for casting prospects and clients in the company database • Proficient in privacy agreements, NDA, and agency contract requirements and upholds those industry standards

Tesla
Sept 2020 - Sept 2022Sales Advisor / Operations Advisor• Supported and collaborated with internal and external teams Financial Solutions, DMV, Acquisition, sales, logistics, lending institutions, and service to seamlessly coordinate 50+ daily vehicle deliveries• Executed all aspects of the final transaction; ensuring all purchase, financing, registration documents are thoroughly and accurately completed, tags assigned in the Dealer DMV system, appropriate taxes paid, and final payment collected• Exceeded sales goals by 20%, consistently ranking among the top 50 Tesla Advisors in North America.• Provided outstanding customer service throughout the sales and delivery cycle while proven in the 80% C-SAT score Show less

Holiday Inn Club Vacations
Sept 2022 - Mar 2024VIP Experiences Regional Event Manager• Orchestrates and manages a diverse portfolio of over 60 themed events in 2023, resulting in a remarkable annual sales impact of over $10 million dollars in our departments second year while currently on track to exceed $15 million dollars with 90 events in 2024 • Manages all aspects of event details, including timelines, contract negotiations, BEO, menus, transportation, and budgets to ensure guest safety and remain in budget in an ever-changing environment• Proactively collaborates with cross-functional teams, including, internal stakeholders, legal, and external vendors, to ensure the successful completion of all VIP Experiences events stay within budgetary guidelines• Works directly with the Marketing/Strategy team to build landing pages for all events, providing copy and photo direction to ensure effective member journey communication• Planed and coordinated group site visits for our team to visit multiple vendors and ensure continued program success Show less

University of Central Florida
Apr 2024 - nowAssociate Director of Events and Experiences - Advancement and Partnerships* Leads the logistical execution of high-impact university and functional unit/area events, including site selection, contract negotiations, event specifications, and vendor management.* Strategizes, coordinates, and executes one-of-a-kind experiences and special events designed to express gratitude, steward, and inspire philanthropy among current and prospective donors* Collaborates with development officers and advancement staff to establish event goals, objectives, operating procedures, and resource needs while managing timelines and task assignments.* Oversees attendee engagement, including registration, tracking, and overall guest experience.* Ensures compliance with university policies, administrative regulations, and state and federal tax mandates while maintaining fiscal controls and event records.* Manages marketing review and approvals for event-related promotions and materials.* Coordinates with campus partners to optimize event experiences and ensure seamless execution.* Conducts post-event analysis to identify opportunities for improvement and enhance future events. Show less
Licenses & Certifications
- View certificate

Excel: Productivity Tips
LinkedInApr 2024 - View certificate

Excel Essential Training (Microsoft 365)
LinkedInApr 2024 - View certificate

Excel Formulas and Functions Quick Tips
LinkedInApr 2024 - View certificate

Leading with Fearless Mindfulness
LinkedInApr 2024 - View certificate

Excel PivotTable Quick Tips
LinkedInApr 2024 - View certificate

Speaking Confidently and Effectively
LinkedInSept 2023 - View certificate

Improve Your Organizational Skills
LinkedInApr 2024 - View certificate

Articulating Your Value
LinkedInSept 2023 - View certificate

Excel: Introduction to Formatting
LinkedInApr 2024 - View certificate

Learning Personal Branding
LinkedInSept 2023
Volunteer Experience
VIP Guest Talent Liaison/Production Assistant
Issued by MegaCon on Nov 2015
Associated with Chris ElkinsProduction Assistant
Issued by Hope and Help Center of Central Florida, Inc. on Sept 2016
Associated with Chris ElkinsProduction Assistant
Issued by Edgewood Childrens Ranch on Oct 2016
Associated with Chris ElkinsProduction Assistant
Issued by Talent INC on Mar 2017
Associated with Chris ElkinsSinger
Issued by Encore Cast Performing Arts on Jun 2013
Associated with Chris ElkinsVolunteer Assistant
Issued by Give Kids The World Village on Jan 2016
Associated with Chris Elkins
Languages
- enEnglish
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