Kristen Lowry
Richmond
Summary
Results-driven Operations Professional with extensive experience managing complex workflows and resolving urgent issues in fast-paced environments. Skilled in coordinating cross-functional teams, streamlining processes, and delivering projects efficiently. Expertise in vendor management and performance reporting, maintaining high service standards while optimizing operational efficiency.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Founder & CEO
YouPick
01.2026 - Current
- Scaled platform connecting users to curated real-world experiences, enhancing engagement through thoughtful design and user flow
- Developed operational systems and processes supporting scalable growth and seamless user experience
- Enforced experience standards across partners, ensuring consistency, quality, and brand alignment
Event Producer & Operations Manager
Virginia Manufacturers Association
Richmond
03.2025 - 03.2026
- Secured and managed sponsorships and partnerships, generating $120,000 in annual revenue (+$40K year-over-year growth)
- Led end-to-end production of events and programming, from vendor sourcing (catering, AV, entertainment) and floorplan design to on-site execution
- Increased attendance for key annual events by 30% year-over-year through enhanced programming and marketing collaboration
- Managed event staff and collaborated with marketing, vendors, and speakers to ensure seamless execution and cohesive brand experience
- Oversaw event center operations, including pricing, scheduling, logistics, and AV production, achieving an average 50% profit margin
- Developed and implemented business plan and marketing strategy for event center, resulting in increased bookings and visibility
- Negotiated vendor contracts and built strategic trade partnerships to reduce costs while maintaining high-quality event experiences
Event Producer & Client Partnerships
Mosaic Catering & Events
Richmond
01.2022 - 03.2025
- Produced high-end events, corporate galas, and live event experiences, designing layouts and spatial environments that elevated guest flow and overall presentation
- Managed client relationships and vendor partnerships, ensuring exceptional backstage hospitality for bands and high-profile events
- Led event-day execution, staffing teams and overseeing on-site operations to guarantee seamless delivery and uphold premium service standards
- Built pricing proposals for catering and production, driving $945,000 in annual sales - the highest in the company for 2024
- Developed and refined workflows, enhancing efficiency, scalability, and consistency across events
Event & Client Experience Manager (Contract)
Inspiria Global Events
09.2022 - 09.2023
- Managed client relationships and end-to-end event execution, aligning client vision with final delivery to enhance satisfaction
- Coordinated cross-functional teams, vendors, and stakeholders for seamless planning and execution of multiple events, ensuring cohesive collaboration
- Oversaw event logistics and timelines, maintaining high quality standards and optimizing client experience throughout all deliverables
- Supported on-site production, ensuring efficient operations and a polished, cohesive event environment
Licensed Real Estate Agent
Samson Properties
Chantilly
11.2021 - 04.2023
- Managed end-to-end client engagements from outreach through closing
- Advised on pricing strategy and market conditions
- Negotiated contracts and coordinated multi-party transactions
- Built and maintained a referral-driven client pipeline
Banquet Manager
The Westin
Richmond
12.2020 - 01.2022
- Oversaw high-volume banquet operations, ensuring efficient setup, service, breakdown to deliver exceptional guest experiences
- Managed on-site execution, resolving issues proactively to maintain seamless guest experience
- Led and developed event staff, assigning responsibilities to uphold service and presentation standards
- Collaborated cross-functionally with culinary, sales, and event teams to execute events aligned with client expectations
General Manager
Hopsfrog Grille
Burke
03.2018 - 12.2020
- Directed high-volume restaurant operations, ensuring exceptional service quality and team performance
- Led hiring, training, and scheduling efforts to uphold service standards and strengthen team capabilities
- Resolved issues in real time to maintain a high-quality guest experience
- Managed inventory and cost control measures to enhance profitability and minimize waste
Assistant General Manager
Fat Tuesday's Raw Bar
Fairfax
02.2016 - 03.2018
- Oversaw full-service restaurant operations in high-volume environment, ensuring smooth service flow and positive guest experience
- Trained and led team members, managing scheduling and performance to enhance shift operations
- Managed inventory, ordering, and cost control to sustain efficient and profitable operations
- Addressed customer needs and resolved issues in real time to maintain a high standard of service
Education
Associate of Arts -
Northern Virginia Community College
Annandale, VA01-2014
High School -
West Springfield High School
Springfield, VA01-2011
Skills
- Product Operations
- Business Development
- Financial Strategy
- Brand Strategy
- Data analytics
- Process Improvement
- Operational Troubleshooting
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partnership Development
- Resource Coordination
- Stakeholder Communication
- Team leadership
- Problem solving
- Attention to Detail
- Escalation Resolution
Real Estate License
Virginia Real Estate Salesperson, Inactive - Eligible for Reinstatement
Timeline
Founder & CEO
YouPick
01.2026 - Current
Event Producer & Operations Manager
Virginia Manufacturers Association
03.2025 - 03.2026
Event & Client Experience Manager (Contract)
Inspiria Global Events
09.2022 - 09.2023
Event Producer & Client Partnerships
Mosaic Catering & Events
01.2022 - 03.2025
Licensed Real Estate Agent
Samson Properties
11.2021 - 04.2023
Banquet Manager
The Westin
12.2020 - 01.2022
General Manager
Hopsfrog Grille
03.2018 - 12.2020
Assistant General Manager
Fat Tuesday's Raw Bar
02.2016 - 03.2018
Associate of Arts -
Northern Virginia Community College
High School -
West Springfield High School