Member Spotlight - Rose-Marie Guerra, CMP, DES

Rose-Marie Guerra, CMP, DES
Special Events Coordination Manager
Intergovernmental and External Relations Division
Department of Justice Canada

Rose-Marie Guerra studied hotel management «gestion alimentaire et hôtelière» at Algonquin College. She has worked at the Department of Justice Canada since 2000 and has been a member of MPI Ottawa for 19 years.

Benefits of MPI Ottawa

I joined the chapter in 2001 because I was new to organizing meetings and I knew it would be a good idea to belong to a professional association. My predecessor was a member of MPI and she told me about the many benefits such as industry networking (with planners and suppliers), and continuing education (workshops and webinars on various topics). Furthermore, those members with their Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) accreditation can earn credits (CEUs) for CMP re-certification.

In the past, I volunteered for the Outreach Committee (CSAE/MPI Auction Dinner). Over the years, the committee has evolved.

For three years, I was also a member of the organizing committee for the annual Prix Prestige Awards Gala that takes place in May.

Favorite MPI Ottawa Event

I would have to say that the CSAE/MPI Auction Dinner held in January or February is my favorite event. It is the largest gathering with up to 800 participants. It is a positive event for our community, since it raises funds for good local causes. I have participated as both a volunteer and as a guest, so I was able to observe all aspects of the event from planning to outcome.

What makes you good at what you do?

I am a perfectionist. In planning, there are thousands of small details to consider, so being a perfectionist allows me to address all the small details that lead to a successful meeting.

Current challenges

Let's just say, we are in a pandemic, so everything is virtual. My face-to-face meetings have either been cancelled or postponed. Virtual meetings are a good option, but they don't replace human contact. People miss face-to-face interaction. We look forward to the return of in-person meetings.

In 2019, I earned my Digital Event Strategist certification and that assists me greatly in setting up virtual meetings.

Career highlight

Four years ago I was recognized as the MPI Ottawa Planner of the Year. I was nominated by a colleague. I was very proud to receive the trophy at the May 2017 Gala.

Most memorable event

Each event is unique and brings something special. Most of my meetings are FPT (Federal, Provincial and  Territorial) and this has allowed me to organize events across Canada. It was extremely rewarding to be able to travel to every province and territory. I don't have a favorite place because each one has its own unique character.

Final word

Since I started working for the federal government at a young age, I could retire in two years with a full pension, but I love my job so much that I may continue working longer. I have exciting news to share: I got engaged on March 27 and I am looking forward to planning my wedding!

 Article written by Elodie (Morini) LORTAL, BHM | LinkedIn, National Arts Centre

Article edited by Melanie Hudson, retired MPI Ottawa member