Christine Grant, 35, works in Chicago as director of operations for On The Scene—The Event Company—. As a 2019 40 Under 40 honoree, Grant discusses her passion for the events industry.
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What I do: From research and development, proposal creation and budgeting, to on-site execution and post-event reconciliation, I oversee each program that is planned within my organization. I am a part of a small yet fierce team and I wear several hats throughout the planning process. I gravitate toward the details and tend to spend most of my time on budgeting and event logistics.
How I got here: My passion for events began at the university level planning speaker’s series, concerts and student events. This experience led me to a top Chicago catering company, where I quickly developed a reputation for flawless execution of large and logistically challenging events. Interested in big-picture planning, I moved to my current organization that has provided me with opportunities to plan and execute events around the country and world.
Greatest career accomplishment: My greatest achievement was producing four events back to back in Copenhagen, Denmark. With expectations high, including a premiere black-tie gala for 600 guests, resources including tables, chairs, linens, décor, entertainment and AV were brought in from neighboring countries. Multiple language and cultural barriers occurred throughout the planning but, in the end, it was the most magical and fulfilling experience of my career.
Specific improvement I’ve made: I have developed and implemented a contracting, billing and financial-tracking system that provides checks and balances and has increased both productivity and company profitability.
What I am working on now: I am in the early planning stages of a national sales meeting for 1,100 guests. I am excited about the location and have just started the creative process of developing multiple event themes.
What I do outside of work: Cooking and traveling are my passions. I shoot for two large international trips a year, in addition to multiple visits with family and friends throughout the country. Travel inspires me to try new recipes when I return home.
