SEEN Saturday Series
Sports ETA is the essential resource for sports commissions, sports destinations, industry partners and more.
Since being established in 1992, our promise has been to deliver quality education, ample networking opportunities and exceptional event management and marketing know-how to our members - destinations, right holders, and industry partners - and to protect the integrity of the sports events and tourism industry.
As the non-profit 501(c)3 trade association for the sports events and tourism industry in the United States, Sports ETA is the most essential resource for sports commissions, sports destinations, sports event owners, and industry partners. We believe sports tourism and the events that our members own and host have the power to transform society for the better. Our passion is to help sports events and tourism professionals achieve previously unimaginable levels of performance. We do this by nurturing a diverse and inclusive community of smart, creative, and interesting people: our members.
SEEN Saturday Series
When the Clock Starts: A Masterclass in VIP Security & Transportation
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When a high-profile motorcade enters your city, the margin for error disappears. For event planners and local officials, hosting a VIP isn’t just a logistical task—it’s a high-stakes performance under a global microscope. Whether you are managing a major sporting event, a political summit, or a summer festival, the challenge remains the same: How do you keep the VIP moving when the rest of the city is at a standstill?
In this 10-minute masterclass, Kathrine Nero and Melissa Wideman, former VP at Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky International Airport, and VP at Castellini Co., will go beyond the basics to give you a tactical playbook for elite movement. We break down the delicate balance between fan accessibility and airtight security, the tech-driven routing saving teams hours of frustration, and the common gaps in communication that leave cities vulnerable.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- The First Three Moves: What every destination must do the moment they are notified of a VIP’s arrival.
- The Routing Contingency: How to build a transportation plan that survives traffic, protests, and last-minute schedule shifts.
- The Summer Surge: Managing the unique security risks of outdoor venues and overlapping urban events.
- The "Break-Fix" Detail: The one often-overlooked logistics element that can make or break a VIP’s experience.
If you’re responsible for the safety and movement of high-profile guests this season, this episode is your guide to staying ahead of the pressure.