Hi, I'm Emily Hayes, a motivated and mission-driven leader with a passion for making the world a better place for others. I specialize in organizing high-impact programs, managing operational logistics, and mentoring staff to achieve organizational goals. I thrive in structured, cyclical environments that allow for creativity, public engagement, and making a meaningful impact. With experience ranging from admissions counseling to live entertainment management and freelance photography, I bring a unique blend of empathy, leadership, and creative collaboration to every project I undertake. I'm always eager to build relationships and empower teams while delivering outstanding results.

Emily Hayes

Hi, I'm Emily Hayes, a motivated and mission-driven leader with a passion for making the world a better place for others. I specialize in organizing high-impact programs, managing operational logistics, and mentoring staff to achieve organizational goals. I thrive in structured, cyclical environments that allow for creativity, public engagement, and making a meaningful impact. With experience ranging from admissions counseling to live entertainment management and freelance photography, I bring a unique blend of empathy, leadership, and creative collaboration to every project I undertake. I'm always eager to build relationships and empower teams while delivering outstanding results.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Emily Hayes, a motivated and mission-driven leader with a passion for making the world a better place for others. I specialize in organizing high-impact programs, managing operational logistics, and mentoring staff to achieve organizational goals. I thrive in structured, cyclical environments that allow for creativity, public engagement, and making a meaningful impact.

With experience ranging from admissions counseling to live entertainment management and freelance photography, I bring a unique blend of empathy, leadership, and creative collaboration to every project I undertake. I’m always eager to build relationships and empower teams while delivering outstanding results.

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Work Experience

Admissions Counselor at Winthrop University
March 1, 2024 - Present
Led recruitment strategies across assigned territories to achieve enrollment goals through outreach, presentations, and data-informed engagement. Recruited and counseled 1,000+ students from the Lowcountry area of SC with an 89% admittance yield. Delivered impactful public presentations at high schools, college fairs, and campus events, influencing over 2,000 audience members in a recruitment cycle. Provided admissions counseling to prospective students and families regarding academic pathways and financial aid. Reviewed academic records and made admissions decisions. Built relationships with counselors and partners to expand institutional presence. Managed travel planning and Slate CRM reports to improve outreach effectiveness.
Lead Compliance Supervisor - Human Resources at Carowinds
August 31, 2024 - July 24, 2025
Oversaw timekeeping and scheduling systems for 2,000+ employees using UKG Dimensions, reducing payroll errors by 72%. Designed and led trainings on compliance and HR policy, improving staff accuracy and consistency. Conducted labor audits and resolved discrepancies to ensure policy alignment. Streamlined timecard and payroll processes, increasing team efficiency.
Live Entertainment Area Supervisor at Carowinds
August 31, 2022 - July 24, 2025
Supervised daily operations of the live entertainment department, directly managing up to 400 employees in a season, including 30 direct supervisors. Developed training and mentorship programs to enhance morale and quality. Handled conflict resolution, staff scheduling, safety compliance, and payroll operations. Managed budget and operational planning for seasonal performances and events. Created, planned, directed, and managed events and auditions with 10 to 200+ participants.
Operations & Talent Consultant/Photographer at Freelance
September 1, 2020 - Present
Supported small teams and creative projects with strategy, branding, actor training, actor management, business optimization, and event documentation. Independently operated Em Hayes Photography, managing social media, website, client booking/scheduling, photoshoots, editing, and product distribution. Known for providing world-class guest service with an empathetic and warm approach to special event photography. Improved employee retention by an average of 36% during seasonal entertainment events.

Education

High School Diploma at Wando High School
August 1, 2012 - June 30, 2016
B.A. Psychology at Winthrop University
August 1, 2017 - December 31, 2020
B.A. Theatre Technology & Design at Winthrop University
August 1, 2017 - December 31, 2020

Qualifications

Child Life Specialist Studies (Non Degree Seeking)
January 1, 2021 - September 30, 2022

Industry Experience

Education, Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization, Travel & Hospitality