Mary Bonafede

About Mary Bonafede

Accomplished industry leader with 20+ years of achievements leading and driving best-in-class global events ranging from virtual events, major studio film and television premieres, press junkets and strategic experiential events to international Olympic and World Cup Hospitality Programs. Concentrated focus on high-profile events evoking memorable experiences while underscoring each industry’s leading portfolio of brands. Proven ability to cultivate strong, invaluable, networked relationships; create indelible, authentic, immersive experiences; grow brand love; and drive business growth.Developed strategic branding opportunities, creating and reinforcing collaborative partnerships with a wide array of colleagues, taste-makers, franchise affiliates, consumers and executive leadership. Career history includes leadership roles with some of the world’s most respected brand mavens, including: The Walt Disney Company, NBC Universal, Warner Bros. Entertainment and The Coca-Cola Company.

Experience

1. Global Executive Event Producer

   Independent Event Producers

   May 2018 — Present

   Provided thought leadership and strategic direction for corporate and non-profit organizations, managing all disciplines related to storytelling through entertainment brand activations, consumer experiences, tech-sector user conferences, hospitality programs and high-profile tent-pole events.ACHIEVEMENT HIGHLIGHTS:• Produced HBOMAX\'s Somebody Somewhere Premiere at NeueHouse Hollywood. Hired by BLT Communications, the event location was selected then moved from the venue\'s Studio A to the Third Floor Terrace to lessen Covid-19 concerns. The show\'s mixed themes of LGBTQ+ life in the Midwest against a backdrop of musical performances provided an interesting array of eye and ear candy for guests to enjoy. Hay bales, sunflowers in many forms and quilts that functioned as wraps for guests on an unusually windy L.A. evening on the rooftop terrace. Karaoke performances included talent taking the stage and serenading the guests and paying tribute to their fellow cast and crew. • Partnered with accomplished Fundraising leads throughout West Territory on the Dinners, Galas & Golf business, stewarding high value guests and committee members for donor funds into to further the mission of St. Jude Children\'s Hospital to cure childhood cancer. Honored to have been a part of this worthwhile organization.• Cayton Children’s Museum Opening events team reached out based on a colleague recommendation, requesting executive leadership, planning and successful execution on multiple days of opening ceremonies supporting the Museum’s grand opening to the media and public. Event experiences included media days, donor galas, friends and family days and docents and volunteer celebrations.

Education

• California State University, Fullerton

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Communications