Brent Dornbos

Senior Director of Events and Sponsorship @Chicago Association Of Realtors

Chicago, IL, US

Lead the strategic vision and execution of 80+ high-impact events across all departments annually for a member association.• Oversee budget management exceeding $750K, ensuring cost efficiency and financial performance while delivering premier event experiences.• Direct all vendor negotiations, securing favorable pricing for venues, audio visual, catering, and entertainment vendors.• Spearhead sponsorship strategy and execution, overseeing a team that secures and manages $500K+ in high value sponsorships across Chicago Association of REALTORS® programs, events, and classes.• Introduced data-driven performance tracking for sponsorship success, ensuring ROI and accountability in revenue generation.• Develop and implement marketing strategies that enhance sponsorship sales and attendee engagement.• Supervise a high-performing events and sponsorships team with three direct reports, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.• Orchestrated seamless transitions to virtual and hybrid event formats during COVID-19, expanding audience reach and engagement.• Recognized for doubling event volume from 40 to 80 events annually through improved operational processes and SOPs.• Recipient of Gold Standard Excellence Award in 2025, voted by peers, for exemplifying professionalism, productivity, and ethical excellence as a role model within the organization.

Grand Valley State University

Bachelor of Business Administration - BBA, Marketing and Management; Human Resources