#MeetMTA: Susan Caven, Global Event Director

The Miller Tanner difference is our people. That’s why we want to introduce you to our team of superstars that brings our corporate meetings and events to life for our clients. Today, we introduce you to MTA Susan Caven, Global Event Director. Susan brings a unique perspective to the Global Events Team by combining her comprehensive knowledge of the financial side of event planning with her on-site event management expertise.

#MeetMTA Susan Caven

Tell us about your current role with MTA – what do you do as Global Event Director? 

As Global Event Director, I am considered the face for our clients. I work very closely with clients to learn their expectations of a meeting and team with them to make it happen!  Listening is the most important to understand their end goal in order to facilitate not only the on-site meeting but also to team up with our internal MTA team and vendors to execute a flawless meeting!

How long have you been with MTA?

September 2017 marked my fifth year with MTA. I spent the first couple of years on our Finance Team gathering all of the documents and expenditures needed to create our post-meeting billing portfolio. I then transitioned over to the Global Events Team as a Global Event Director.

What did you do before joining MTA?

Before joining MTA, I worked as a Service Manager at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel in Nashville. I specifically worked in the Tour & Travel Department overseeing tour groups that visited the hotel.

What’s the best part of your job?

That’s easy! The people I work with! My colleagues are some of the most diverse, knowledgeable and impactful people I know. Everyone has a story and sincerely wants to know my story as well. It is truly like a family here at MTA – not something you find everywhere.

What’s been your favorite event destination as an event planning professional?

Sydney, Australia! I never dreamed I would have the opportunity to travel so far! What an amazing city! Take a ferry to see incredible views of Sydney from the water. Visiting Watson’s Bay and Manly Beach are must-dos and hold my most memorable stops!

What’s been your most memorable event to date and why?

Our yearly internal workshops are my most favorite events to attend. While the week is spent learning more about our craft, the time spent with those that I work with on a daily basis is always an incredible experience!

Do you have a few great travel tips that you could share?

YES – pack your bag then take half of it out!

What do you do for fun?

I am a mother of two amazing young children. My days are filled with balancing all the balls and being intentional in making memories and cherishing every moment! We are busy! We are huge sports fans – we love a good sporting event of any kind or just playing some baseball in the backyard.

Do you currently reside in Tennessee?

Yes, in Lebanon, Tennessee and the home of Miller Tanner Associates AND Cracker Barrel! Lebanon is a small town with lots of charm! It’s slow-paced – that is why I like it! Lebanon is located only about 25 miles east of another small (BOOMING) town called Nashville. Nashville is a must-see for everyone at any age. There is so much to see, do AND eat! I am so fortunate to have such a city in my backyard!

What makes Miller Tanner stand out as a meeting planning company? What’s your favorite aspect about MTA?

The attention to detail from every aspect of this company speaks for itself. The service-driven, warm-natured, truly sincere heart of this company starts at the top and is so intertwined with this company – at times it feels too good to be true! To have the opportunity to work for such an impactful organization is something I do not take for granted – this doesn’t come along often!