Dara A.

About Dara A.

Strategic and creative professional skilled in supporting the lifecycle of a diverse portfolio of production and event projects in fast-paced multi-line companies. In-depth knowledge of construction phase coordination and technical standards, strong communication and supervisory skills, deadline-driven and detail-obsessed. Excellent at planning and problem-solving, particularly under pressure. Proven track record of achieving and executing high-profile, multi-faceted projects while working with and managing several teams at once. Experienced in cost estimating, developing budgets, time management, and planning. Managed and produced numerous live events, documentaries, and news features. Experienced in all aspects of production, from pre-production through post-production, including creating concepts; managing and hiring crew and production staff; handling high-profile talent; managing postproduction process and staff, and executing the delivery. Exceptionally organized and detail-oriented. Detail-oriented multitasker and problem-solver who is accustomed to meeting deadlines. Effective managing who is able to motivate team members with strong staff training and client relationship skills. Outstanding ability to plan, organize, and coordinate media events.Successful in implementing strategic plans, managing multi-million dollar budgets, cost reporting, analyzing, negotiating, and creating methods to streamline operations. • A meticulous planner of logistics including scheduling, travel, guest handling, audience, catering, craft services, security, credentials, accounting, payroll, and general staff hiring and oversight.• Skilled in compliance with Union agreements (DGA, IATSE, SAG-AFTRA), OSHA standards, contractual obligations, permitting, labor laws, international visa requirements, and insurance needs. • A self-learner with an inquisitive mind who loves to learn new skills, as well as teach others.• Technical knowledge of camera, lighting, audio, graphics, and post-production equipment. Experience in converting productions from SD to HD, as well as studio builds and office set-ups.• Excellent as a team leader with experience in hiring, training, supervising, and delegating to subordinate staff and technical crews. Understands the importance of developing and nurturing relationships with co-workers, vendors, venues, and sub-contractors. • Forward-thinker who can materialize creative concepts through cost-effective planning, detailed management, and resourceful problem-solving. Capable of working on multiple projects simultaneously.

Experience

1. Stage Manager

   Major League Soccer

   Aug 2025 — Present · Stamford, CT, US

   Accountable for ensuring a professional atmosphere on the studio floor and communicate information regarding studio issues. · Cue talent and relay pertinent information to the studio staff.· Managing and cueing all anchors and guests on time for live shows and affiliate station hits. · Staying aware of constant changes within the show’s broadcast.· Lead the studio production crew at the same time, keeping the on-air talent at ease.· Collaborated with the lighting director, camera operators, and director to facilitate seamless transitions of props and studio monitors during the live broadcast.· Experience with green screen and chroma key production environments.· Demonstrated strong understanding of lighting practices specific to chroma key (green screen) setups.

Education

• Ramapo College of New Jersey

  96-hour Project Management Certificate, (PMP), with Agile (Scrum), Project Management Certificate (PMP), with Agile (Scrum)

• New York School of Interior Design

  Interior Design

• New York Institute of Technology

  Communication Arts, Broadcast Television, Journalism & Film Production