For Krista Friedman, Events Division Director at The CE Group, execution is all in the details. A master of logistics and planning, Friedman is an expert at implementing strategy for events ranging from non-profit fundraisers to activations with over 80,000 people in attendance. A hands-on leader, she can often be found enjoying executing the smallest of details with her team members. Friedman shares on the impact her grandmother made in her life, how she ended up in the events industry, and the community impact she makes one event at a time.
On her career journey:
I graduated from Baylor University with a degree in Art, but as the recession had just hit, I was on the hunt for any opportunity that came my way. I was referred to The CE Group, where I interned in venue management and started what I would consider now to be my real-world education. I jumped right in and quickly learned the ins-and-outs of running a venue, including marketing and logistics, and then transitioned to the planning and execution of all types of events for clients. I have had great mentors, made invaluable relationships, and have had so many unique opportunities along the way that I know I would have never received anywhere else.
On what makes her unique in her industry:
I live for the logistics. While most people see the glitz and glamor of events, I love the nitty-gritty: from closing down streets to devising a perfect safety plan. Even if I am wearing my event-best black dress, you’ll still see me moving cones with a walkie-talkie in hand.
On her passions outside of work:
I believe the events I produce for our clients at The CE Group have an impact on the community. Whether that means getting 80,000 people outside together to play in the streets, or putting on a gala to raise important funds for a non-profit, every day I work my hardest to deliver the best I can so that at the end of the day, what I’ve done has had influence and made our city a better place. Now that I’m in my early 30’s, my passions have developed to be quite simple: to take time for myself, and to put as much effort into my personal relationships as I do into my work.
On her personal female hero:
My grandparents raised me the majority of my life, and continue to be the ever-driving force in who I am. My grandmother, Jo, is more than a hero to me. She has braved breast cancer, raised many generations of our large family, supported my every decision, and has a faith in God and family that is unrivaled. If at her age I can ever look back at my life with as much joy and fulfillment as she has, I will know I have succeeded.
Connect with Krista Friedman and The CE Group on Facebook, and on Instagram @thecegroup.
This profile was (Em)Powered by The CE Group.
Edited from an interview by Eleanora Morrison.