Built to Last: 20+ Years at Event 360 Featuring Rene Tamayo

Event 360 is built by people who believe deeply in what they do. People guided by purpose, meaningful work, and a commitment to making the world better through the events we plan, produce, and execute.

We have more than a dozen individuals on our team who have called Event 360 home for more than 20 years. Their longevity is unusual in this industry, but for us it’s foundational. In this ongoing series, we honor the team members whose commitment, knowledge, and heart have helped shape our company. Through their stories, reflections, and memories, we celebrate not just the years they’ve spent here, but the impact they’ve made along the way.

Today, we’re proud to recognize René Tamayo, who joined Event 360 in 2004 and currently serves as our Production Associate Director.

When you think back to your first year at Event 360, what stands out most to you now?
Wow — so many years, so many memories. There have been countless moments with our clients and events: pushing through intense weather, dealing with turbulent situations, and figuring things out in real time. I remember working incredibly hard and slowly realizing that — even when you don’t always see it — you play a part in something much bigger. I was on one event series for more than 20 years, helping create an experience that could truly be life-altering for participants. Looking back now, what stands out most isn’t just one moment, but the fact that I spent 20+ years building a career with one company: Event 360.

Which of Event 360’s Six Values resonates most deeply with you, and how have you seen it come to life during your time here?
Great People. Throughout my career, great people have made all the difference. They’re the reason I’ve learned so much, gained so much experience, and stayed motivated. Being surrounded by teammates who work hard, are passionate about what they do, and still know how important it is to have fun and laugh — that matters. If there’s one main reason I’ve stayed at Event 360 all these years, it’s the people we’ve hired and the culture we’ve built together.

What is a moment — on event or behind the scenes — that you’ll never forget?
Working on the Susan G. Komen 3-Day event series, specifically the Closing Ceremony. Welcoming the breast cancer survivors, applauding them, and recognizing their strength is something that never got old. They’ve just accomplished something many people can’t. As participants and spectators raise a shoe in their honor, I usually knelt near the Survivor line, cheering them on and thanking them for leading the charge in the fight against breast cancer. You could see it in their eyes — the tears, the pride, the relief, the refusal to let cancer win. It was a powerful moment every single time.

What’s one piece of feedback you received here that changed the way you work?
Learning to “tap myself on the head.” For me, that means not waiting for someone to tell me what to do. It’s recognizing what needs to get done and taking ownership of it. Early on, I often hesitated because I thought I needed approval or direction. Gaining the confidence to act — to be a self-starter — changed how I work. It’s about knowing what needs to happen and making it happen.

What’s the hardest you’ve laughed at work?
On every event I have worked on. LOL. Laughter is a huge part of the work environment for me. If we couldn’t laugh at some of the situations we’ve been through, I wouldn’t want to work here. Event planning and production is stressful, no question — but being able to laugh helps release that pressure. Sometimes it doesn’t happen in the moment, but eventually, it always does.

What’s changed the most at Event 360 since you started, and what has remained constant?
The scale and sophistication of our work has grown exponentially. We can do more, and we can do it better and more efficiently. What hasn’t changed is the quality of the people. The great people have always been the constant.

What are you most proud of having been part of at Event 360?
Working for an event production company dedicated to nonprofit causes. At the end of a day or an event, knowing that you and your team contributed to something bigger — helping create a world without diseases like breast cancer — is incredibly meaningful. Over the years, the funds raised through these events have helped people live longer, access better treatments, and find community and support. Being part of that is something I’m deeply proud of.

What advice would you give to someone just beginning their Event 360 journey today?
If you were hired by Event 360, it means someone saw something special in you. That belief matters. With great people, we can do anything. Know your value, let that motivate you, and don’t wait around for things to happen — make them happen.

Thank you, René, for the care, craft, and consistency you bring to Event 360. Your presence and experience have left an indelible mark on Event 360. You effortlessly think through solutions and get ahead of problems by always looking at the big picture. Your presence makes people feel better. And your leadership has been instrumental in bringing out the very best of the teams you work alongside. We’re thankful for all you’ve contributed and for everything still to come!

Subscribe to Event 360 blog notifications so you don’t miss a single post.