Cindy Sheridan, Vice President, joined Speakers’ Spotlight after earning her BComm in Hospitality and Tourism Management at Ryerson University.  She began her career with the company in 1998, and has steadily risen through the organization.  She has held various positions including Account Coordinator, Event Coordinator and Director of Operations and Event Management.  Now, as the Vice President, she handles Operations and Human Resources, and manages the departments of Logistics, Marketing, Accounting, and Administration. As one of the first employees of the agency, Cindy has had the opportunity to learn every aspect of the company. Her extensive knowledge in the industry has made her one of the backbones of Speakers’ Spotlight:

Did you always want to work in the speaking industry? If not, what other careers did you consider?

My first real dream job was to be a child psychologist. I love helping people, especially children. Once I realized that I wouldn’t be able to “leave my work at work,” I decided I needed to make a change. In my current position, one of my roles is to handle our human resources department, where I’m able to enjoy helping others.

Any advice for people getting started in the industry?

A major part of my role at Speakers’ Spotlight is planning our events. If you think you want to be a part of the events industry, be sure to do your research as there are so many roles and different components, and each plays such a vital part in the makings of a successful event. Try out different areas of the industry to see what your true calling is.

Do you have any great stories from events you’ve attended featuring Speakers’ Spotlight speakers?      

I plan our Annual Showcase and it’s always a reality check to see the impact that our speakers have on our audience. There’s laughter, tears, and a morning filled with education. It’s so great to see and feel the impact that our company has on people–it truly brings our job to life.

What’s your favourite thing about working at Speakers’ Spotlight?

Our team!  I’m sure I’m a little biased, but I think we have the best team out there.  Speakers’ Spotlight is a great place to work, and the team makes the phenomenal environment we work in.

What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?

Ironically, the most challenging aspect of my job is also one of the things I really like about it. I started at Speakers’ Spotlight in its very early days, and since then, I have learned about and done almost all of the roles at the company. As such, I wear many hats here, which can be very challenging at times.  I appreciate all divisions of the company and value the importance of each of them.  It’s difficult to juggle the varying tasks at times, but I love the variety in my position.

Desert island album?

I don’t have one…I love a lot of different music. If I had to narrow it down, I would want something with a strong beat so I could work-out to it!

Last book you read?

I’m sure this isn’t what you’re looking for but I have a five year old…I can pretty much recite Disney’s Frozen book in my sleep!

Last film you saw?

Dare I say Frozen again?

Celebrity Crush?

Matthew McConaughey!  Need I say more?