Natalie Nemec, CMP, CEM, 37, works in McKinney, Texas, as manager of meetings, events and trade shows at Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems (SAS). As a 2017 40 Under 40 honoree, Nemec discusses her passion for the events industry.
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What I do: I develop and implement strategic internal/external events and customer trade shows that align with Raytheon SAS business goals. Internal events include off-site customer events, quarterly strategic leadership reviews, corporate networking events, award ceremonies, executive retreats and press conferences. Additionally, in collaboration with the company’s business development teams, I annually produce 15 to 20 domestic and international trade shows. In conjunction with the METS senior manager, we designed, operationalized and oversee the strategic meetings management program (SMMP), which in 2016 processed more than 800 annual events and dozens of contracts, and delivered best practice guidelines to the company’s employee resource groups.
My greatest career accomplishment: Achieving my CMP and CEM designations, and receiving the highest Space and Airborne Systems employee award for a leadership campaign.
Impressive stats: I am credited with consistently exceeding expectations in budget management and contract negotiations. Additionally, I led an internal Six Sigma trade show alignment process with business development resulting in a more aligned and productive relationship with our key internal customer.
A specific improvement I’ve made: My METS colleagues are credited with running a well-oiled machine, but I am often told I brought a fresh pair of eyes and questioned the status quo. For example, when we were challenged to pursue thought leadership opportunities with defense associations, my background provided insight and counsel that delivered strategically aligned results.
What I’m working on: I’m excited to build the Raytheon brand at events through innovation that reflects the amazing products we build. We are working hard to implement new technologies, such as VR, interactives and immersive environments, for our internal partners and customers to experience our products.
What I do outside of work: Currently, most of my free time is preparing for my first baby and taking care of my two fur babies (Mini and Bella). I try to spend as much time as I can with family and friends, and I’m looking forward to enjoying sushi and bottles of wine in the near future.
Phrases that identify me: Wife; mom-to-be; events professional; Texan; realist
