What I do: “I plan, manage and execute the NAACP annual convention, board meetings, annual meeting, special events and the Image Awards.”
What I really do: “I’m the quarterback of the team. I turn great ideas into reality. I strategize the plays and then huddle with my team to create a memorable experience for all and win the game.”
How she got here: Sims studied hotel administration at Cornell University. Following graduation, she traveled the world as a travel director with Maritz Travel Company; worked for Hyatt Regency Atlanta; and took a national meeting planner position for 10 years with The Links, Incorporated and moved up to become its executive director.
Greatest career accomplishments: Creating a global meetings strategy for NAACP and leading events in France, Ghana, Liberia and South Africa.
Next-level numbers: “I was able to negotiate more than $500,000 in meetings and events concessions and savings annually, reduce operating expenses by 7 percent and increase meeting attendance by 10 percent annually through mobile apps, e-blast systems and social media marketing.”
