Debbie Hennessey

Experience

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  Louisville Palace Theatre

  Jun 1998 - Aug 2000

  Director of Sales

  Responsible for implementing and managing the VIP Suite Program, managing the Box Office and staff as well as booking and managing private events within an historic 2900 seat multi-purpose venue.

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  Live Nation

  Aug 2000 - Jan 2013

  Director of Events

  Began working for this company in 1995, in Louisville, KY when it was PACE Theatrical. In 2000, when it became SFX and incorporated venues across the country was offered a position in Indianapolis at the Murat Centre (currently known as the Old National Center). SFX was bought by Clear Channel Radio, and then the company split into Clear Channel Entertainment which then became Live Nation World Wide, Inc. I maintained my position within the company through its various changes where I was responsible for the booking and management of over 200 annual events between the Murat Centre and White River State Park. Coordinated the schedule for over 22 separate rental spaces hosting groups of 20-400,000 people seasonally and yearly. Managed a full time event staff of 4 and part time event staff of up to 150 people depending on the event. Show less

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  Clear Channel Entertainment

  Jan 2001 - Jan 2005

  Director of Events
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  Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium

  Feb 2013 - Aug 2020

  Convention Center Director

  Executive leader in one of the nation's top convention centers. Managing a stellar team of sales managers and event coordinators along with dedicated union employees who represent Indiana to millions of guests annually. The Indiana Convention Center hosts 5 of the Gold 100 Conventions Across the Country and Indianapolis was named the #1 Convention City by USA Today in 2014.Manage budgets, client experience, employee relations and policies. Have developed new standards for customer service and have seen the results in gathering new and repeat business. Work closely with the CVB to establish relationships with new and returning customers and local hotels. Create partnerships with Union representatives to establish best practices to employees and clients. Show less

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  Freelance

  Sept 2020 - now

  Independent Consultant

  • Assist Fortune 500, NFP, and international investment companies in planning and executing large-scale events pre and post COVID-19.• Collaborate with event staffing agencies, stadiums, arenas, and convention centers to navigate the dynamics of the event world.• Develop strategic event plans, coordinate logistics, and ensure seamless execution for successful outcomes.

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  Solution Tree

  Sept 2021 - Oct 2022

  Vice President of Event Operations

  Leading a team of dedicated event managers to help drive the mission of Solution Tree: to advance the work of our authors through excellent customer service oriented events which will transform education worldwide to ensure learning for all. Focus on event management, leadership, decision-making, planning, execution and logistics.

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  Hendricks Live!, Inc.

  Feb 2023 - Feb 2025

  General Manager

  As the General Manager at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield, I led a dynamic team to ensure the smooth operation of our brand new facility. From managing bookings to enhancing the guest experience, my role was pivotal in creating a vibrant cultural hub on Main St.