Praise Mazhandu

PRAISE MAZHANDU - linkedin.com/profile MARKETING & EVENTS MANAGER A well-presented professional who is highly organized and results driven. More than 10 years of marketing and events experience in a dynamic marketing organisation. Proven track record of successful planning and execution of market campaigns, trade shows, conferences, exhibitions and events. The passion for marketing and events has led to superb excellent relationships with clients, peers and superiors. Exceptional leadership, planning and organisation skills are demonstrated by the successful execution of marketing and events projects. Currently looking for a managerial position that offers a variety and the opportunity to develop both personally and professionally. EDUCATION Bachelor of Technology Honours in Hospitality and Tourism -) Chinhoyi University of Technology IATA foundation Diploma – 2005 World Geography Airfares and Ticketing (paper2) GDS Training (Galileo Chartered Institute of Secretaries (Part A) CORE COMPETENCIES Strategic Marketing - Brand Development and Management - Public & Media Relations – Communication - Customer Relationship - Team Building & Leadership - Planning & Conceptulization - Project Management - Budget Management - Planning and Conceptualization - Event Logisitics - Event Reporting – Financial Management – Presentation Preparation EXPERIENCES AND ACHIEVEMENTS ZIMBABWE TOURISM AUTHORITY Head Destination Marketing and Events – Africa and Middle East2014 - present Successfully implemented the Africa and Middle East annual marketing and events strategy. Exhibited at Indaba South Africa 2018 with the main objective of brand awareness and organized a magnificent side event which was oversubscribed and successful. Successfully organized a networking brand awareness event for Zimbabwe A World of Wonders at the Arabian Travel Market 2018 which was also oversubscribed. Selected to be the Tours Coordinator for the Buyers and Media Programme for Sanganai/Hlanganani World Travel Expo held in Zimbabwe. Successfully Coordinated Hosted Buyers and Media Programme for Africa and 120 buyers for 5 consecutive years leading to increase in arrivals from new markets from East Africa with an average of 25% increase. Developed and implemented key marketing campaign initiatives- ‘Visit Zimbabwe Campaign’ targeted at the South Africa Market. Recruited 8 new regional exhibitors at the company’s 2018 Sanganai/Hlanganani exhibition. Developed press releases and editorials for the Destination and all Events that I was in charge of which were published in publications in Middle East and Africa – TTG Mena, Afro Tourism, ATQ News, ATC News, Tourism Update and More Cream than coffee. Maintained good relations with media and other stakeholders Successfully coordinated ZTA annual events which were all at a National level – Joe Thomas Concert, Harare International Carnival, Sanganai/Hlanganani and Miss Tourism Zimbabwe Managed the Marketing Team to ensure high quality controls and delivery of objectives of the Marketing Strategy. Developed and Implemented Digital marketing campaigns for events and destination marketing. Meticulously managed budgets for specific events/projects as well as for the Africa and Middle East department. Keep up to date with Marketing trends and tools to enhance the continual learning process and make recommendations to the Executive Director. Continuous identification of new opportunities to deliver innovative event management services. ZIMBABWE TOURISM AUTHORITY2007 - 2014 Administrative Manager in the Chief Executive’s Office and Board Of Directors The position was a management position. It was aimed to make sure that the Chief Executive leads the organization efficiently. The position entailed CE Communication, Board Support, Event Coordination and CE Administrative Support. I successfully changed the systems in the CE Office to be digital and provided Strategic Leadership to all Executive Directors in line with the CE’s vision. Major achievements include : Completed important projects on time and within budget Improved operating procedures which saved on time for the Executive Promoted twice to a higher grade as my contribution to the CE and Board was immense ZIMBABWE TOURISM AUTHORITY2004 - 2006 Assistant Accountant This position included Computerised Cashbook maintenance, Bank Reconciliations, Creditors payments & reconciliations, General filing systems, Debtors Invoicing and Calculating funds for travelling members of staff.