The Miller Tanner difference is our people. That’s why we want to introduce you to our team of superstars who brings our corporate meetings and events to life for you, our clients.
Today, we introduce you to Global Service Director Kate Sheelen, CMP. Kate is one of our European-based team members. She is a master at turning ideas into completed projects. By garnering a Certified Meeting Professional credential, recognized globally as a “badge of excellence” in the meeting, convention and event industry, Kate has dedicated herself to providing only the best for our clients and their event needs.
Meet Kate Sheelen, CMP
Tell us about your current role with Miller Tanner Associates (MTA) – what do you do as Global Service Director? What are your primary responsibilities?
As Global Service Director (GSD), I have the opportunity to work alongside an amazing group of talented Global Event Directors (GED) and Global Event Specialists (GES) who are the heart of executing MTA’s successful events. Daily duties include supporting and providing leadership to a team of four GEDs, for whom I have the pleasure of learning from just as much as I am there to support them, working directly with clients to plan events, and teaming with the other GSDs to develop and lead the events team.
How long have you been with Miller Tanner Associates?
October 2017 will mark 5 years with Miller Tanner. It has been a dream and an unbelievable opportunity to be part of Miller Tanner. I became the lucky one when joining the team.
You are a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP). When did you receive this certification? Why is it important to the work that you do with Miller Tanner?
Professional development, certification, and involvement in my profession are very important to me. I have been continuously supported throughout my career and want to pay it forward by supporting the industry and next generation of meeting professionals.
I received the CMP certification in August 2014. The CMP designation indicates an investment in the industry and level of achievement. It is a proud moment to share with our clients that Miller Tanner Associates has invested in the individuals leading and executing their events. The CMP process includes industry experience (at least 3 years), continuing education (at least 25 hours), and time invested in learning more about the global meeting profession industry (3 recommended books to study). An exam is required to receive the designation and is something not taken lightly. As most have noted, it’s very rewarding to pass the test but not an exam that anyone would like to take again.
What did you do before joining MTA?
I worked for two nonprofit associations in Florida and focused on membership relations for 12 years before joining MTA. It was very rewarding being part of industry organizations to support the dedication and passion of the volunteers.
What’s the best part of your job?
The people! MTA has a culture of finding talented, warm, endearing, successful people with the common goal of working together to create memorable events for our clients.
What’s been your favorite event destination as an event planning professional?
Traveling to Melbourne, Australia was a childhood dream, and I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to travel there for an MTA program. The people are so nice, the culture very laid back, and it has the most beautiful coastline! I would love to go back to Australia to explore more. I tend to joke with my family that my next ticket to Australia may be one-way only!
What’s been your most memorable event to date and why?
Each event seems to have its own special memory because of a unique situation that occurred on site, kind words received from a client or an unexpected achievement. A special program for me took place in Budapest and involved the on-site team. During dinner on the last night, we spent the time together sharing stories, laughing so much our faces hurt and connecting with people I may not have had the opportunity to meet without MTA. Our team that night was from Italy, Hungary, Ukraine, Denmark and the USA but each person shared experiences that were relatable no matter where we grew up. As noted earlier, the people are the best part of the MTA experience.
Do you have a few great travel tips that you could share?
One item I always pack when traveling (no matter the distance), is my little survival kit. It has all the essentials to quickly refresh and survive a long-haul flight, unexpected long layover or when luggage decides to stay in Florida while I have landed in Spain. Included is toothbrush/toothpaste, deodorant, make-up essentials (concealer, blush, mascara), safety pin, Starbucks Via, Kind Bar, Band-Aids, tissues, Advil, ear plugs, mini body splash/perfume, hand sanitizer and hair brush. Did I mention it’s small enough to fit inside a small purse too!
What do you do for fun?
While currently living in Europe, traveling and exploring keeps me busy. The fun part is looking on a map to discover which cities can be reached by train or on a day trip. Travel, along with exploring parks with my husband and little Jack Russel Terrier are at the top of the list. I also enjoy time with family & friends, cooking, baking cookies and taking pictures.
You are originally from Florida, but you are currently living in London? What are some of the best-kept secrets of London? What do you enjoy most about living there?
I am originally from Florida, born and raised, moved to central Europe in 2014 and to London in 2016. Life outside of Florida is quite different but very enjoyable. I do miss the ability to wear sandals in the Florida winters (sunny and 75!). London is amazing and the perfect place to live. It provides enough amenities of home (America) along with the connection to the European life (plus travel to almost anywhere). London is so huge, full of history and diversity. Each day you discover something new to explore. The ability to name your own adventure daily is the best-kept secret.
What makes Miller Tanner stand out as an event planning company? What’s your favorite aspect about MTA?
Leadership and teamwork are incorporated into each part of the meeting planning process at MTA. Clients will find a very well-supported, knowledgeable and seamless team working globally to create their memorable event.
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