Sonya L. Makkanji-Myers
Director of Operations & Client Services @Seat Planners
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WORK HISTORY
Director of Operations & Client Services @Seat Planners
San Diego, US
Own end-to-end strategy and execution for $3M+ annual transportation and logistics programs, supporting 20+ large-scale events per year and audiences of up to attendees across multiple markets.Design and lead operating models integrating technology, risk management, and compliance to deliver high-stakes live experiences with precision, consistency, and margin control. Provide executive oversight of GPS systems, technology platforms, and operational infrastructure, enabling real-time decision-making during live delivery.Direct vendor and client contract strategy, negotiating favorable commercial terms while mitigating operational and legal risk. Partner with finance and executive stakeholders to standardize workflows, streamline approvals, and reduce exposure across programs.Build and lead multi-layered onsite teams of up to 85 staff, overseeing hiring, training, performance management, and leadership development. Design training programs focused on safety, equity, and performance under pressure in high-risk, high-visibility environments.Apply formal legal training to labor compliance, safety protocols, contract governance, and policy development. Serve as senior operational partner to sales and clients, shaping scopes of work and leading execution from pre-production through post-event closeout.
EDUCATION
Emily Carr University of Art and Design
First Year Foundation Studies
University of San Diego School of Law
Masters of Science, Legal Studies, Honors
College of the Desert
Associate of Arts - AA, Highest Honors in Communication and Media Studies , Deans List
California State University San Marcos
Bachelor of Arts - BA, Major in Communication & Media Studies, Minor in Anthropology Deans List
American Council on Exercise
ACE Personal Trainer Certification Program , Health and Physical Education/Fitness
ABOUT SONYA L. MAKKANJI-MYERS
I’m an event strategist and experience leader with a decade of expertise designing and delivering large‑scale, high‑impact events that bring brands, communities, and purpose to life. My background spans attendees, multimillion‑dollar budgets, and complex, cross‑functional programs where operational excellence, creativity, and measurable outcomes all matter.I specialize in turning event strategy into business impact — building experiences that deepen engagement, strengthen relationships, and drive pipeline. My approach blends data‑driven planning with a deep commitment to attendee experience, ensuring every touchpoint feels intentional, inclusive, and aligned with organizational goals.I’ve led end‑to‑end event portfolios across industries, partnering closely with marketing, sales, customer success, operations, and executive teams to deliver seamless execution. Whether managing vendors, leading onsite teams of 80+, optimizing processes, or crafting event narratives, I thrive in fast‑moving environments where collaboration and innovation are essential.At my core, I’m passionate about creating experiences that connect people to purpose — and doing it with precision, empathy, and a calm, solutions‑oriented mindset.
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