Sam Bhandarkar Cmp

Sam Bhandarkar, CMP, DES, CASE, possesses extensive experience in the events and hospitality industry, holding prominent advisory and leadership roles across various organizations since 1995. Currently serving on the International MICE Advisory Board for MGM Resorts International and the Client Advisory Council for the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Sam has a robust background in event operations and strategic planning. Previous roles include Event Placement Director at LRP Publications, where responsibilities included contract negotiations and event bookings, and Director of Events at the American Culinary Federation, overseeing all US event operations. Early career experiences range from DJing in top nightclubs to coordinating national corporate events. Sam holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies/Conflict Resolution from American University and a certificate in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Florida Atlantic University.