Danny Akin

Event Production Professional

San Francisco Bay Area

About

Event Technology Sales, Design, and Operation ● Live Event Production and Management ● Creative and Artistic Consultation ● Operations and Logistics Management ● Improvisational Tap Dance Performance ...and just a real swell guy.

Experience

  • Freelance Video Engineer / LED Tech at Large Screen Video Imaging, LLC
    Aug 2017 - Present · 9 yrs

  • Video Engineer/ Production Manager at Self-Employed
    2017 - Present · 9 yrs 7 mos

    Event production professional trusted with mission critical roles in high profile events. Services provided: Graphics/Playback operation, LED video (NovaStar), Projection, Switching, Cameras, Rigging, Production Management, Stage Management, Heavy Equipment Operation Works regularly with Large Screen Video, Got Light, BD+20, FreshAV and many others. Notable events/ end clients include Outside Lands, Live Nation, Another Planet Entertainment, SF Sketchfest, Facebook, Google, Amazon, Mutek SF, Maker's Faire

  • Director, Sales and Events at Corporate AV, LLC
    Apr 2016 - Apr 2017 · 1 yr 1 mo

    Analyzed client needs, vision, and message to design thoughtfully-produced events that balance ROI and participant experience. Managed a variety of productions from first touch to post-event review, including galas, product launches, and week-long conferences. Hired and directed labor, and subcontractors when necessary. Production disciplines covered include pro-audio sound reinforcement, set/scenic design, large format projection/ video display, content management, digital signage, creative lighting design, video recording/production, and webcasting. Owned the company's production equipment subrental business. Performed hands-on, on-site management of event load-in, troubleshooting, rehearsal, operation and load-out. Sometimes they even let me drive the big truck.

  • PSAV (2 yrs 7 mos)
    • Sales Manager - Hyatt Regency Santa Clara
      Aug 2014 - Mar 2016 · 1 yr 8 mos

      Transitioned team’s sales strategy to a needs-satisfaction model of consultative selling, resulting in a 79% year-over-year increase in gross revenue. Met client needs by attending pre-conference meetings, creating and maintaining organized show files, and constant monitoring of and response to clients' questions, concerns, and changing needs. Provided operational support by acting as Director of Event Technology in his absence, leading show crews, driving associate sales programs, and conducting training as needed.

    • Sales Coordinator - Santa Clara Convention Center
      Sep 2013 - Aug 2014 · 1 yr

      Oversaw the lead sales processes with all short-term, BEO-driven business. Assisted Sales and Project Managers in the planning/detailing of larger events. Provided on-floor technical support during periods of extremely heavy business and operation of specialized video equipment. Turned ordinary meetings into extraordinary events.

  • Event Technology Specialist - Four Seasons San Francisco at Swank Audio Visual/ PSAV
    Jun 2012 - Sep 2013 · 1 yr 4 mos

    Set-up, troubleshot and operated AV equipment, including projectors, video switchers, audio mixers, video cameras (esp. Sony PD170 and DXC50 models), televisions, and theatrical lighting (both traditional and LED; proficient in both the Leprecon LP series lighting boards). Worked with Four Seasons staff/ management to ensure successful events that exceeded their industry-leading quality standards, coordinating with banquets staff in set-up/ strike logistics and participating in BEO meetings. Provided the highest level of professional VIP customer service in a high-end environment; consistently maintained exemplary scores and recognition in customer feedback surveys.