Member Showcase - CMP Spotlight - March 2024

Amber Dillard, CMP Meeting and Events Manager Cox Enterprises

As a 10+ year member of the Certified Meeting Professional Study Group Committee for MPI Georgia Chapter, we are happy to introduce Amber Dillard, CMP, Meeting and Events Manager with Cox Enterprises as our CMP Spotlight for March 2024.

*What motivated you to pursue the CMP designation?

My motivation to pursue the CMP designation stemmed from a desire to grow, develop, and enhance my career opportunities in the hospitality industry. I wanted to demonstrate my commitment to the field, as well as gain recognition among my peers and potential employers for my skills and knowledge in meetings and event management.

* How did participation in the CMP Study Group support your studying to take the exam?

Being a part of the CMP Study Group was invaluable! As study partners, we were able to share study materials, notes, and resources that were very helpful as we studied for the exam. The Georgia Chapter of MPI structures the study group so well that it allows for open learning and discussions amongst our peers. Being a part of the CMP study group allowed me to stay accountable to my reading schedules and commitments as well as helped to reduce procrastination ( smile). We were able to quiz each other, and review practice questions, helping us all feel more confident and comfortable with the material. Most importantly, the encouragement and support from past study group members as well as the Chairs, and Co-Chairs of the study committee, boosted my motivation and confidence making me ready to conquer the exam.

* How did you feel when you saw the words "You Passed" ?

I was elated and relieved at the same time! All my hard work and dedication truly paid off. It was such an amazing feeling!

* As a meeting industry professional, what benefits have you experienced as a result of having your CMP?

1.   Career Advancement: Attaining the CMP Designation opened up new careers and opportunities for advancement. I was in a place where I was ready to make the move from hotel catering sales to an event planning role. The CMP designation gave me the confidence that I needed to transition to the next stage in my career as a Meeting and Event Manager for Cox Enterprises headquartered here In Atlanta, Ga.

2. Professional Recognition: The CMP designation is widely recognized in the meetings and events industry as a symbol of knowledge and expertise. It demonstrates commitment to professionalism and the industry as a whole.

* Does having your CMP designation enhance your position as a knowledgeable industry expert?

Yes. Having my CMP has definitely increased my credibility in the industry amongst employers and peers. Clients, Employers, and colleagues are more likely to trust my expertise and abilities knowing I have earned the CMP designation. It is a significant accomplishment and positively impacts careers.

* Do you find information you learned while studying to take the exam helpful in your positions since earning your CMP and are you able to use some of the formulas, etc., to help your and your company's meetings go well?

Yes! All the information that I learned in my study group combined with the textbooks I purchased have been super helpful as I navigate my career as a Meetings and Events Manager. Those that come to mind would be calculating labor, servers, and bartenders for events.  Ex.1 Bartender per every 75 to 100 guests, 1 Cocktail server for every 50 people, and 1 Wine Steward for every 5 tables. This truly comes in handy when trying to confirm that I have enough staff for my event. My favorite of all is calculating break and coffee quantities for events. Ex. Only 25% of attendees will drink soft drinks in the AM, and 70% will drink in the PM. For Coffee orders, I still use the formula that (20) 6 oz cups can be served per 1 Gallon of Coffee. This is such a cost saving especially when ordering a la carte. There are many others, but these are my “go-to” formulas and have proven to be a cost savings for all my catered events.

* Reflecting on the time since you achieved the CMP designation, was it a good use of your time and resources to take that step?
Absolutely! It was the best use of my time and resources. I would do it all over again.

* What words of encouragement would you have for future CMP candidates?
Remain diligent: Achieving the CMP designation requires time, dedication, and persistence. Keep working hard, no matter what negativity or challenges come your way.

Stay positive: Always maintain a positive attitude and mindset throughout the CMP journey. Always remember that challenges are opportunities for growth.

Earning the CMP designation is a significant accomplishment that will open doors to new opportunities in your career. Stay focused, and stay motivated, and you will achieve your goals.

Also remember that anything worth having doesn’t come easily.