Torrye J. Metoyer, CMM, 34, works in Houston as senior marketing strategist of events at P2 Energy Solutions. As a 2017 40 Under 40 honoree, Metoyer discusses her passion for the events industry.
*Connect with Metoyer on Instagram.
What I do: I manage all customer-facing events, including but not limited to conferences, trade shows and regional meetings, as well as the annual sales kickoff meeting and incentive trip. I am responsible for site selection, contract negotiation, creating strategic event plans and managing the production of the event as well as the staff, promotion, budget, sponsors, speakers, hotel relations, registration website, social activities and post-event reporting.
How I got here: I began my career in the events industry as a marketing coordinator. In that role I assisted the director of marketing with speaker management, website design, promotions and hotel relations. Each event we planned was a learning opportunity for me, and I requested to take on additional responsibilities as I learned more about event planning.
My greatest career accomplishment: For a working parent, deciding to go back to school or receive a certification in your field of expertise can be intimidating. In November 2015 I decided to enter the CMM program. Splitting my time between a 50-hour workweek and studying for the CMM proved to be quite the challenge. I received the prework in October, took the class in early November and spent the rest of November through February 2016 solving a business case (the final project for the class) that could be used in the real world. The announcement that I passed the course came in March 2016. I was ecstatic. I challenged myself, put in the time and effort, and achieved my goal of obtaining the CMM designation.
Impressive stats: Since our annual user conference began, the attendee count has increased by 280 percent, with the lowest count being 200 and the highest being 766. Because of cost-cutting measures that did not impact the attendee experience, I was able to save $50,000 on my last user conference.
What I’m working on: I’m already working on my next annual user conference. It’s a 12-month planning process. This year I am excited about growing the attendee count, increasing the sponsors and introducing new technology such as a more user-friendly and intuitive mobile app for the attendees.
What I do outside of work: I love to cook Cajun and soul food and read suspense novels. My favorite author is Michael Connelly.
Phrases that identify me: Mom; planner; giver; independent; traveler
*Read Metoyer's perspective on the power of event marketing here. 
