Leah Linke
Chapel Hill
Summary
Born in Madrid, raised in Brazil and Peru, I am a dynamic American operations executive with extensive experience within the large-scale event space. Adept at managing budgets exceeding $50M and fostering strong vendor relationships. Proven problem-solver and communicator, driving efficiency and innovation across teams. Successfully built a production department and mentored staff, enhancing productivity and engagement in fast-paced environments. Extremely adept the the landscape of large-scale events at Level 1 sporting events (NFL Super Bowl, FIFA World Cup, MLB/NHL All-Star Games, Summer Olympics)
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Head of Delivery - FIFA World Cup 2026
On Location
10.2016 - Current
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Built successful production department within On Location, with 50+ full time employees and 1,500+ 1099 and FTC workers.
- Extensive knowledge and relationships within most leagues and sports organizations (NHL, MLB, IOC, FIFA, NCAA)
- Developed strong vendor relationships to negotiate contracts and secure optimal pricing for event services.
- Successfully manage budgets in excess of $50M
VP of Operations
Kreate, Inc.
02.2012 - 10.2016
- Managed large-scale projects with premier sports leagues (NFL, NHL, USTA), ensuring timely completion within budget constraints.
- Evaluated existing workflows to identify inefficiencies and propose innovative solutions that enhance productivity across the organization.
- Fostered a culture of continuous improvement within the organization by implementing best practices in operations management and providing ongoing training for staff members.
- Cultivated strong vendor relationships, enabling effective negotiation on pricing and terms for better cost control.
- Mentored team members on best practices in operations management, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth within the organization.
Director of Event Management
Party Planners West
07.1995 - 11.2009
- Streamlined event planning processes for increased efficiency and reduced operational costs.
- Led cross-functional teams to execute large-scale hospitality events at Level 1 sporting events, fostering collaboration among departments for cohesive outcomes.
- Strengthened internal team dynamics through regular training sessions on best practices in event management methodologies.
- Monitored budgets closely to maximize resources and minimize expenses, delivering high-quality events within financial constraints.
Protocol Manager
World Cup USA 1994
06.1992 - 12.1994
- Instrumental in development of National Protocol Ambassador Program for World Cup USA 1994.
- Developed and managed process for VIP and Head of State visits to World Cup USA 1994 including interacting with Secret Services and multiple international security agencies.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - French And Spanish Literature
Franklin And Marshall College
LancasterSkills
- Problem-solving
- Excellent communication
- Critical thinking
- Calm under pressure
- Decision-making
- Budget Management
- Flexible and adaptable
Languages
Spanish
Professional Working
Portuguese
Limited Working
French
Limited Working
Timeline
Head of Delivery - FIFA World Cup 2026
On Location
10.2016 - Current
VP of Operations
Kreate, Inc.
02.2012 - 10.2016
Director of Event Management
Party Planners West
07.1995 - 11.2009
Protocol Manager
World Cup USA 1994
06.1992 - 12.1994
Bachelor of Arts - French And Spanish Literature
Franklin And Marshall College
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