Cheryl M. Payne, CMP, CMM, has worked in the hospitality industry for nearly two decades. As a Strategic Partner at INNOV8 Meetings + Events, Cheryl supports customers with meeting management services and strategic meetings management.

Cheryl is also a professional speaker and facilitator who provides practical education for the meetings industry. She contributes articles to several industry publications, covering topics including strategic meetings management, contract strategy, budgeting and cost-saving techniques.

Cheryl has earned CMP and CMM certifications. She is a Past President of the MPI Orange County Chapter and has served as Chair of the MPI International Apex Advisory Task Force. As President, she oversaw a 19-member board and a chapter of more than 400 members.

Her industry recognition includes Entrepreneur of the Year, Smart Meetings’ Connect 40/40, the MPI Exceptional Leadership Award and induction into the Smart Meetings Women in Leadership Hall of Fame. Cheryl continues to support the meetings industry through volunteer roles, advisory boards and strategic consulting.

She also teaches the Meeting Professionals International Contracts & Negotiations Strategist Certification Program and contributes to contracting education across the travel industry.