Laura Hernando

Laura Hernando Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) Advocate Dubai, UAE | - |-ABOUT ME SKILLS ○ Adaptable and thrives in dynamic environments ○ Strong interpersonal skills with a collaborative mindset ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ Stakeholder & Partnership Management Event Planning & Operations Logistics & On-Site Execution Versatile and dedicated professional with a strong background in events and project management, stakeholder engagement, and program leadership. Proven success in delivering large-scale initiatives, team-building programs, and inclusive guest experiences. Skilled in resource optimization, workforce development, and nationalization. Recognized for driving innovative solutions in fast-paced, multicultural environments. Passionate about championing diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion to empower vulnerable communities, including People of Determination. Committed to delivering transformative, purpose-driven impact for forward-thinking organizations. Guest Experience & Accessibility Strategy Accessibility Leadership & Inclusive Event Design ○ Diversity, Equity, Accessibility & Inclusion (DEAI) Advocacy ○ Leadership Development & Experiential Training ○ Change Management & Digital Transformation ○ Crisis Management & Problem Solving EDUCATION & CERTIFICATES Diploma in Business Administration & Transport Management Zabalburu College - Bilbao - Spain, Sep 2000 - Jun 2003 Autism Certificate IBCCES - USA, 2024 Autism & Sensory Awareness Training IBCCES - USA, 2024 Cognitive Disabilities Training IBCCES - USA, 2024 Mission Leader Program Expo 2020 Dubai, 2019 Dealing with People of Determination Dubai Police Academy, 2019 WORK EXPERIENCE ON-SITE AUDITOR (PROJECT-BASIS) | Aug 2024 - Dec 2024 International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards www.ibcces.org - UAE & KSA • Conducted in-depth accessibility and inclusion audits across sectors, ensuring compliance with IBCCES certification standards, with a focus on Autism, cognitive disorders, and sensory sensitivities. • Developed comprehensive audit reports with actionable recommendations, driving tangible improvements in facility operations and accessibility. • Collaborated with public and private sector stakeholders to advance the UAE’s global inclusivity vision, enhancing facilities' readiness to accommodate diverse travelers. • Played a key role in the Holy City of Al Madinah (KSA) project, contributing to its recognition as the first Autism Certified City™ (ACC) in the region and supporting the regional expansion of accessibility and inclusion initiatives. SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER (PROJECT-BASIS) | Sep 2022 - Jun 2024 Corporate Team Building Events & Coaching Activities - UAE & KSA • Planned and delivered high-impact corporate events, team-building activities, and experiential leadership programs across the UAE and KSA, ensuring engagement and alignment with organizational goals. • Optimized resource allocation and event logistics to ensure seamless execution across all initiatives. • Conducted training needs assessments and developed customized programs to enhance workforce skills through diverse learning methodologies. • Led nationalization initiatives, including Emiratization and Saudization, while championing gender equality through women empowerment strategies. L.H. 1|2 VOLUNTEERING Expo 2020 Dubai: ○ Opening Ceremony Cast Member ○ Pavilions Premiere Zone Supervisor/Host ○ COVID-19 Workforce Volunteer ○ Volunteers Recruiter COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT St Mary’s Mission, Ethiopia: Led by www.angelolaran.com Providing critical support to vulnerable groups, including orphans, the disabled, the elderly, and impoverished households, ensuring access to essential aid for basic needs. PERSONAL INTERESTS ○ Global Culinary Traditions ○ Cultural Studies & History ○ Documentary Viewing ○ Traveling ○ Volunteerism LANGUAGES MANAGER PMO & GOVERNANCE | Jan 2019 - Mar 2022 Expo 2020 Dubai (UAE Government) • Coordinated creation and maintenance of program documentation, ensuring accessibility and version control throughout the lifecycle. • Oversaw executive reporting ensuring teams remained aligned with plans and timelines through close collaboration with project managers. • Acted as the primary liaison between the Technology function, organizational leadership, and delivery offices. • Coordinated calendars, meeting schedules, and internal communications across teams and stakeholders. • Oversaw budgeting, purchase orders, and invoice workflows in collaboration with procurement and finance teams. • Managed change control processes, assessing impacts on scope, timelines, and budgets. • Led event-time mobilization team, including planning, training, accreditation, and stakeholder coordination for seamless execution. Key Achievements: • Oversaw a program portfolio of 120+ projects, including the Technology Masterplan and Critical Milestones, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with the organization’s strategic goals. • Realigned the Technology program and budget following COVID-19 oneyear postponement, optimizing resources and realigning timelines to maintain project efficiency and execution under new constraints. • Developed and implemented a workforce plan for 800+ staff optimizing shifts and operational support during event-time delivery. PROJECT MANAGER | Mar 2018 - Nov 2018 Corporate Team Building Activities - Team Building Incentive UAE • Managed event logistics and on-site coordination for corporate teambuilding and incentive programs, enhancing team engagement and ensuring seamless execution. Spanish - Native English - Fluent SERVICE MANAGER | Jun 2017 - Feb 2018 First Abu Dhabi Bank, UAE | Jun 2014 - Feb 2018 RELATIONSHIP MANAGER (B2B / B2C) | Jun 2016 - Jun 2017 • Led the Dubai Parks and Resorts Opening Project Awards: • “Annual Gold Award 2016 - CEO’s Team of the Year” • “Shining Star Award Q4 2016 - Team of the Quarter” • “Certificate of Achievement for Distinguished Project Launch Q4 2016” CREDIT SUPERVISOR / CREDIT ANALYST | Jun 2014 - May 2016 • “Certificate of Achievement for Excellent Work on “Teamwork and Learning” SECTION IN-CHARGE | Aug 2011 - Sep 2013 Massimo Dutti - Dubai Mall, Azadea Group CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP/EXPERIENCE SPECIALIST | Jun 2009 - Jun 2010 El Corte Ingles Group - Madrid, Spain L.H. 2|2