Creative Producer/Writer/Director/Project Manager

Award-winning Producer/Writer/Director/Project Manager with a passion for

top-quality deliverables with over ten years of experience in numerous

aspects of video and event productions, corporate image branding, digital

media campaigns, and project management

PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

Born and raised in the heartland of America, Melissa Villanueva has always

been fascinated by productions that speak to the human heart and touch the

mind. She flourishes under the pressure of live broadcast events, as well

as the tight deadlines of creative production. She is capable and

comfortable in the roles of Producer, Writer, Director, Client Liaison, and

Stage Manager. She has contributed to a broad spectrum of events, from

widescreen productions for the Wal-Mart Corporation to satellite broadcasts

for the American Century awards to multiple venue productions for the

United Methodist Church of the Resurrection.

Melissa is the producer of "Resting Places", an award-winning Hi-Definition

documentary narrated by Liam Neeson. Resting Places explores in depth

roadside memorials around the world and the impact they have on society. As

part of the Wal-Mart sponsored Heroes Project, Melissa has traveled across

the country, conducting interviews and producing documentary style stories

which salute those who make sacrifices for the sake of others. She loves

collaborating with others as much as she enjoys finding the story in

everyone. Her incredible empathy provides her with the true gift of

stirring emotion; not only in the subjects she interviews, but also in the

audience she is intending to reach.

She has worked side by side with many noteworthy people, including Liam

Neeson, Gary Busey, Charles Durning, Dr. Maya Angelou, Antonio Banderas,

Jeffery Katzenberg, Will Smith, Halle Berry, Susan Lucci, Melanie Griffith,

Col. Tommy Franks, Coach John Wooden, Cal Ripkin Jr., Derek Jeter, Phil

Vasser, Brooks & Dunn, Mr. T, Carl Weathers, Michael Buffer, William

Goldberg, Bryan Adams, Cindy Crawford, Mary Kate & Ashley Olsen, Jeff

Gordan, Richard Petty and American Idol's Taylor Hicks, Carrie Underwood,

and Diana DeGarmo.

SKILLS

Managing multiple projects while leading teams and adhering to strict

budgets and deadlines

Compile valuable information through numerous interviews, research,

studying trends, and exploration

Comprehensive fluency in complex computer programs for Macintosh, Windows,

Microsoft Office, Photoshop, Final Cut Pro, ProPresenter, Planning Center

Online

Creative conceptualization, writing, and development of productions across

various digital media formats

Cultivating client relationships through interpersonal and social

networking platforms

Keen ability to communicate intricate processes and objectives between

clients and support teams

Passionate about high quality productions, strong work ethic, and

dedication to professional development

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Church of the Resurrection - Live Event Producer

December 2008-present

. Producing weekly broadcast style live events for audiences of 300-3000

. Producing and Stage Managing special events and musical productions

. Creating and managing content of online agenda program for each

production

. Training and directing staff and volunteer teams in various event

production roles

. Creating presentation graphics and content for various events

Flagler Productions, Inc - Video and Event Producer, Client Liaison

March 2002-February 2007

. Wrote, directed, and produced scripts for videos, commercials, and

events

. Supervised and video and event crews for corporate, non-profit,

celebrities, sports, & filmmakers

. Coordinated travel, accommodations, and meal schedules for support

team of over 150 people

. Conceptualization and deployment of electronic information

distribution program

. Improved communication effectiveness and reduced paper utilization by

75%

. Communication facilitator between clients, department heads, venue

operations, and management

. Developed creative presentations of concept materials for development

and client approval

. Directed rehearsals for all presenters, executives, celebrities, and

production staff

. Wrote marketing, promotional materials, and press releases for the

company

. Administered employee assessment and executed regularly scheduled

performance evaluations

Freelance - Producer, Director, Writer, Stage Manager, Script/Content

Coordinator

February 2007-Decemeber 2008

. Conceptual writing, brand image messaging, and presentation

development for corporate clients

. Selective hiring and supervision of production crew, designers, and

editors for complex projects

. Direct videographers, conduct on-camera interviews, lead post

production and web design teams

February 1999- March 2002

. Updated all critical information for live event production to client,

management, and support staff

. Coordinated schedules for rehearsals for all presenters, executives,

celebrities, and production staff

. Synchronized agendas, scripts, and electronic files for live event and

archiving

. Transcribed video material with acute attention to detail

TELEVISION/FILM PRODUCTION EXPERIENCE

Resting Places - HD Documentary Producer, Director

June 2004-present

. Fundraising, cost projections, and adherence to strict project

budget guidelines

. Developed website, print materials, and press releases for

elaborate product marketing campaign

. Hired and managed production crew, designers, editors, and support

staff

. Performed extensive research of subject matter with multiple expert

testimonials and led on-camera interviews

. Negotiated salary and contract for Oscar nominated actor Liam

Neeson as narrator & supervised VO session

. Licensed use of all media materials for use, including music,

photographs and interviews

Stay Safe, LLC - Producer, Writer, Director

November 2004- December 2005

. Researched, developed, and wrote the script for video pilot of

family safety program and future episodes

. Auditioned and hired talent, scheduled production, and contracted

crew for video production

. Scouted, approved, and acquired permission for use of locations for

scenic production

. Directed on-camera talent and support crew for video program

acquisition

. Served as a marketing representative at trade shows and live events

Film Arts Alliance, LLC - Assistant Director, Production Supervisor

December 2004- May 2005

. Kept Director and support staff up to date on all critical information

for production

. Supervised and scheduled video crews, equipment, and daily

requirements for a 15 day film shoot

. Tracked and approved time cards and payroll for SAG members and crew

. Scouted, approved, and acquired permission for use of locations for

scenic production

AWARDS AND HONORS

2010 Recent Alumni Award from Avila University - awarded to a recent

graduate (15 years or less) who has demonstrated leadership by using

his/her education to enrich the lives of others and who exemplifies

the principles and ideals of Avila University

2009 Best Short Documentary Award New York Independent International Film

Festival "Resting Places"

2008 Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival Filmmaker's Award "Resting

Places"

2007 Telly Award Corporate Image "Mark Eisen Fashion"

2007 Telly Award Live Events "Wal-Mart Shareholders Meeting 2005"

2000 Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges -

Avila University

1999 Irene Ryan Award Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival

EDUCATION

Avila University - Cum Laude

1996-2000 Bachelor of Arts, English

2000. Bachelor of Fine Arts, Theatrical Direction and Production

Professional References Available By Request

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