DEBRA BYERLEY SIWISA
EXPERIENCED EVENT MANAGER| FACILITIES MANAGER| WAITRESS
Johannesburg
Summary
- Event Manager with over 10+ years of experience in planning and executing high-impact events in the hotel and corporate industry. Known for seamless event execution, effective management and ability to deliver exceptional results in lead generation. Excited to bring my strong organizational skills to a company committed to advancing in Hospitality Sector.
Offering exceptional organizational and multitasking abilities, coupled with genuine passion for event planning, ready to learn and grow in this field. Contributes strong planning and coordination skills, along with keen eye for detail and effective communication. Ready to use and develop project management and client relationship skills in [Desired Position] role.
Transitioning from fast-paced event planning environment, bringing strong project management and coordination skills. Developed expertise in vendor negotiations and budget management, ensuring successful and cost-effective events. Seeking to leverage these transferrable skills in new and dynamic field.
Results-driven event professional prepared for impactful roles in event planning and coordination. Managed complex event logistics, client relationships, and vendor partnerships to deliver high-quality experiences. Emphasizes team collaboration and adaptability, ensuring successful outcomes in ever-changing scenarios.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
3
3
Languages
Work History
Events Manager & Head Facilities Manager
Beryl Holdings / Crystal Partners
01.2018 - 12.2024
- Assisted in the planning and execution of events
- Booked all venues, hotels for events across South Africa
- Planned the event from concept to finish with a given budget
- Contributed to the planning and execution of companies all events - Conferences, birthdays, gala dinners, team buildings and launches
- Maintained the facilities leading a team of over 30 people
- Helped maintain all calendar events and building a relationships with suppliers all around South Africa
- Managed events budget which contributed to cost reduction
Event Manager
Beryl Group
04.2018 - 08.2024
- Coordinated florists, photographers, and musicians for events.
- Managed administrative logistics of events planning, event booking, and event promotions.
- Recruited trained, and managed teams of volunteers to assist with event operations and logistics.
- Developed marketing materials and promotional campaigns to maximize event attendance and visibility.
- Ensured smooth transitions between program elements at live events through effective stage management techniques.
- Implemented innovative event themes and designs to create memorable experiences for attendees.
- Established relationships with key stakeholders, fostering long-term partnerships for future collaborations.
- Coordinated large-scale conferences for industry professionals, resulting in increased networking opportunities.
- Streamlined event planning processes by implementing efficient project management strategies.
- Collaborated closely with clients throughout the planning process to ensure their vision was accurately reflected in the final event layout.
- Oversaw logistics for multi-day events, including accommodations, transportation, and scheduling.
- Delivered prompt payment for event vendors, venues, staff and transportation providers.
- Managed budgets and negotiated contracts with vendors, ensuring cost-effective event execution.
- Conducted post-event evaluations to gather insights, driving continuous improvement in event execution.
- Negotiated contracts with venues to secure favorable terms, optimizing event profitability and attendee experience.
- Managed event logistics from conception to completion, ensuring every detail contributed to event's success.
- Trained and supervised event staff to complete tasks on time.
- Analyzed event costs to identify areas of improvement and cost savings.
- Negotiated contracts with venues, vendors and suppliers to obtain best rates and services.
- Evaluated existing plans, processes and events planning services to identify opportunities for improvement.
- Developed and distributed event surveys to gather feedback and assess event success.
Duty Manager
Munro Boutique Hotel
01.2010 - 03.2018
- Responded to customer concerns by providing friendly, knowledgeable support, and maintaining composure and professionalism.
- Handled escalated customer issues with diplomacy, ensuring satisfactory resolution while preserving long-term client relationships.
- Trained employees in essential job functions.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with customers to increase loyalty, trust and satisfaction.
- Improved customer satisfaction by promptly addressing and resolving guest concerns and complaints.
- Supervised and coordinated team to provide guidance and support and maximize performance.
- Handled employee-related issues to improve performance, professional conduct, and attendance reliability.
- Initiated plans to improve customer relations, quality standards, and service efficiency.
- Served as the primary point of contact for VIP guests, ensuring personalized service and exceptional experiences throughout their stay.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations for team members, identifying areas of improvement and recommending appropriate action plans.
Senior Duty Manager /Event Manager
Munroe Boutique Hotel
01.2010 - 12.2017
- Managed the hotel's participation in booking in-house guests, securing events and coordinated internal events
- Managed the planning and execution of more than 100+ top events in Johannesburg resulting in 30% increase in brand visibility
- Generated 100+ leads by successfully coordinating internal events
- Achieved a 20% reduction in event costs by managing event budget and negotiating contracts
- Head of Cleaning and Waiters staff
Education
GED -
Montrose Girls High
Zimbabwe Bulawayo 04.2001 -
Skills
- Event Planning
- Project Management
- Contract Negotiation
- Event Styling
Menu planning
Guest management
Social media promotion
Event marketing
Passions
- Enjoy exploring new places and cultures enhancing my perspective in hospitality industry.
- Health & Wellness - passionate about keeping healthy lifestyle.
Reading, Travelling, Fitness
Time management
Problem solving
Creativity
Multitasking
Resilience when under pressure
The ability to reflect and consider ways to improve.
Timeline
Event Manager
Beryl Group
04.2018 - 08.2024
Events Manager & Head Facilities Manager
Beryl Holdings / Crystal Partners
01.2018 - 12.2024
Duty Manager
Munro Boutique Hotel
01.2010 - 03.2018
Senior Duty Manager /Event Manager
Munroe Boutique Hotel
01.2010 - 12.2017
GED -
Montrose Girls High
04.2001 -
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