Etherio: Where Synergy
& Success Collide

As Etherio’s chief executive officer, Eric’s primary responsibility is to ensure that our team exceeds expectations and fuels growth and success for our clients and the people who matter most to them. He is also focused on ensuring that each team member feels supported and empowered in their role, embodying our core values and noble purpose. Eric brings years of experience in both the travel and meetings industries to his role, learning from many great leaders and mentors. He holds his B.S. in Political Science. Eric supports a number of local charities and non-profit organizations in his hometown. Eric is a travel geek. He loves to research airline flight schedules and collect airline memorabilia.

As the senior vice president of meetings & events, Lisa manges the Etherio Meetings & Events team, overseeing client management, venue sourcing, and event operations. She supports both our internal team members and client teams, providing expert guidance and ensuring that we produce high-quality, impactful meetings and events that fuel success for our clients. Prior to joining Etherio, Lisa gained experience working for a biotechnology association located in Washington, DC and Capitol Hill. Her experience taught her to be adaptable and form strong relationships with clients. Lisa holds a B.A. in Political Science. She is also a member of the Corporate Event Marketing Association (CEMA) and the International Association of Exhibitions and Event (IAEE). Originally from Louisiana, Lisa loves to travel, cook, and attend Louisiana State University sporting events with family and friends. When traveling, she loves trying new food and meeting the local residents.

In this role, LeeAnne will lead innovative initiatives, including introducing non-travel incentive solutions, expanding our consulting services, and building strategic alliances beyond the hospitality sector. Before Etherio, LeeAnne previously was the SVP of Operations at GRATITUDES group, a women-owned Culture Engineering and Talent Optimization Agency, where they focus on the entire life-cycle of the employee, pre-hire through retirement, with rewards, recognition and incentives in between. She received her Bachelors in Journalism/Public Relations with a Minor in Marketing and a CIS Certification. LeeAnne has volunteered her time as VP of Communications on the SITE Southeast Board of Directors since 2019 (through current), CFO of GRATITUDES Heart 501c3, and volunteers at The Boyce Ansley School. If Netflix ever launches a competition show to crown America's best gift wrapper, LeeAnne says she would be a top contender - get out the glue gun and think ribbons, precision folds, and tape placement that are practically an art form!

As senior vice president, Beth oversees Etherio’s association management business unit, leading the division in both strategy and operations. She also serves as an account executive for multiple full-service association management clients, inspiring and empowering our team members to create meaningful experiences for our clients and those they serve. Additionally, Beth guides association management teams in all service areas, including governance, leadership development, communications, membership, education, financial management, and event management. Beth brings years of experience in event management, business development, and leadership training to her role. She holds an M.B.A. with concentrations in marketing and organizational management from Emory University’s Goizueta Business School. She obtained her B.S. in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana. Beth also earned her Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation in 2012. She is an active member of Meeting Professionals International, the American Society of Association Executives, the Georgia Society of Association Executives, and the AMC Institute. Thanks to her photographic memory, Beth has an unparalleled ability to recall information. If she’s seen it, she will very likely remember it.

As senior vice president, Ragan’s job is to keep our teams aligned and equipped to fulfill our client-focused purpose and successfully pursue our vision to be best-in-class. That means cultivating culture, leading conversations and initiatives to identify and advance strategic priorities and partnering with other Etherio leaders to keep us always growing and improving. Ragan also has the privilege of leading our marketing, technology, and HR teams. Before joining Etherio, Ragan gained over 20 years of non-profit and association leadership experience, including leading strategic initiatives and operations for a $25M certification organization. After successfully leading our largest association client through a change- and challenge-laden few years, Ragan took on her current leadership role with Etherio. Ragan is a proud graduate of the University of Georgia. She is a current member and past board chair of the Georgia Society of Association Executives (GSAE). Ragan’s favorite season is college football season! (She is a Georgia fan with a soft spot for Clemson and LSU). She is a busy, proud, and happy mom of five who aspires to have time for new hobbies... one day. For now, she enjoys reading while sipping a hot latte!

Jena leads the development and execution of brand and marketing strategies at Etherio, encompassing reputation management, communications, and digital content strategies. She also manages our internal creative and design agency, providing comprehensive support to clients across the company's five divisions: Association Management, Incentives, Signature Events, Life Sciences, and Meeting Management. With nearly 20 years of combined corporate and agency experience, she has served as a brand strategist, specializing in omnichannel B2B and B2C marketing, communications, and brand development. Jena delivers strategies that engage clients, motivate teams, and propel brands forward. She has a B.A. in both Public Relations and Journalism, with a certification in graphic design. She currently holds board positions with her university alumni board, the City of Chamblee Downtown Development Authority, and the Atlanta Women's Club. Three entirely unnecessary things to know about Jena:

As the vice president of human resources, Jennifer’s goal is to deliver excellence in all areas of human resources. She has a strong commitment to innovative and strategic HR practices that foster thriving workplace cultures. Jennifer works to align HR operations with organizational goals, streamlining processes, and empowering employees to reach their full potential. Prior to her time at Etherio, she gained 20+ years of Human Resource experience in the areas of recruitment, training and development, employee relations, compensation, performance management, and policy development. Jennifer held HR leadership roles with USMotivation and GRATITUDESgroup which allowed the opportunity to drive positive changes in organizations and communities. She is a proud graduate of the University of Georgia. Jennifer is also a member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and a parent volunteer at Saint Jude School and Blessed Trinity High School. In her spare time, Jennifer is a mom to three kiddos who keep her busy with their sports including Taekwondo, Basketball, and the equestrian sport of Eventing. If she has a quiet moment, you can find her reading and painting.

Steve is a member of our Executive Leadership Team, supporting the strategic initiatives, goals, and noble purpose of Etherio. He serves as a liaison to the executive leaders of our clients, creating and maintaining positive relationships in our industry. Steve also supports the Account Executive Team in managing relationships with key supplier partners. Steve is the founder of Jackson Marketing Group and MeetingAdvice, which is part of the Etherio family of brands. He holds his M.B.A. in Business Administration. Steve is a member of the Make-A-Wish Foundation Leadership Council. He also volunteers with the Crohns and Colitis Foundation and Zoo Atlanta. He has chaired over 20 galas supporting numerous nonprofit organizations. Steve has a twin sister! He's also an avid boater and has met numerous members of the Royal Family.

As executive vice president, Christine focuses on fostering client success, creating meaningful ways to meet objectives, and achieving goals through the attendee journey. She works to ensure that we adapt to our clients’ changing needs, find new opportunities for innovation, and accelerate growth. Christine has worked in the hospitality industry since her first job at a country club at age 15! She’s gained experience in various event management roles throughout her career, working in special events, banquets, and sporting event management prior to joining Etherio. Christine graduated from the Dedman College of Hospitality at Florida State University with a B.S. in Business Administration. She is involved with the Corporate Event Marketing Association and the International Association of Exhibitions and Events. Christine also serves on the Community Action Board of Los Angeles. You can often find her sharing her expertise at industry events or volunteering at Meals on Wheels and Adopt a Golden Atlanta. Christine enjoys travel, paddle boarding, reading, and being outdoors on a sunny day. She loves to learn new things. For example, she earned her Water Sommelier certificate in 2020 and has been a Fencing referrer!

As senior vice president, Rob is responsible for leading all outbound business development efforts for Etherio's meetings and events and association management divisions. Additionally, Rob heads up the Etherio Denver office. Rob brings years of executive-level experience to his role at Etherio. Notably, he was the president of both Pikes Peak International Raceway and the Grand Prix of Denver. Rob has also served as the chief executive officer of the Billiard Congress of America and the Denver director of client services for Etherio. Rob is a graduate of the University of Colorado, where he earned his B.S. in Journalism. Additionally, Rob was a senior advisory council member of the Colorado Motorsports Hall of Fame and a Board Member of the University of Colorado Alumni Association. Rob has received the Billiard Congress of America President’s Award and the United States Auto Club Promoter of the Year Award. He is also an inductee into the Colorado Motorsports Hall of Fame. Rob takes great pride in his Colorado spirit — boasting about living in the Centennial State is practically second nature to him! When he's not cheering on his beloved University of Colorado sports teams with his wife and three sons, you might spot him tearing through the Colorado mountains on his trusty mountain bike.

As vice president of association management, Karl leads our team members and clients to achieve their goals and drive long-term success. Through strategic partnership with client boards and senior leadership, he leverages his association management expertise to help associations succeed financially, increase membership, and maximize return on investment. Prior to joining Etherio, Karl gained almost 20 years of association management experience as an executive with the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry, the Institute of Industrial Engineers, and other national and regional associations. His experience includes executive director and director positions focused on membership, technical divisions, certification programs, and the implementation of continuous improvement efforts. Karl holds a B.S. in Engineering Technology from the State University of New York College at Buffalo and a M.S. in Technology Management from the Stetson School of Business at Mercer University. Karl has also served in several leadership positions for the Georgia Society of Association Executives. Additionally, he is involved in the American Society of Association Executives and DNS Society. Karl is the youngest of nine siblings and enjoys big gatherings. Family gatherings, neighborhood block parties, and professional sporting events are among his favorite activities!

As vice president of association events, Kowana leads a team of event planners in executing best in class and impactful events for our association clients. Kowana also provides strategic guidance and serves as a center of excellence for all association meetings ensuring that Etherio produces events that delight and inspire our customers. Prior to joining Etherio, Kowana planned city-wide conferences in major US cities for a North Carolina association. Most recently, Kowana has done extensive work within both the meeting planning and association management divisions at Etherio. She was a senior event manager for several years, planning and implementing many large conferences before being promoted to senior director. Kowana earned her B.S. in Administrative Services from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. She has twice been named a “Meeting Professional to Watch” by ConventionSouth Magazine. Kowana is currently active in her alma mater's local alumni chapter executive board, serving as corresponding secretary. She also serves as the lead ambassador for Ladies of A&T (LOAT, LLC) in Atlanta. When she's not working, Kowana enjoys spending quality time with friends and family — that is, when she's not watching reality TV!

With over 25 years of experience in the event industry, Nicky, as the VP of Business Development, will focus on driving new business opportunities and client development. She is dedicated to crafting unique meeting solutions that leave a lasting impact on clients, ensuring each event goes beyond expectations long after it concludes. Nicky's innovative approach sets her apart in creating memorable experiences for all our clients. Nicky has progressed from event coordinator to VP, building a deep understanding of the field along the way. She’s passionate about creating exceptional experiences and always seeks innovative solutions to meet her clients' needs. Whether big or small, Nicky’s creative approach ensures every event is memorable and impactful. Educated on the south coast of England (Sussex by the Sea) with a teaching qualification for special education in children K through 12. Originally from the UK, Nicky moved to the US in 2003 with her family and brings a wealth of international experience in meetings and events. Outside of work, you'll often find her enjoying a great meal with a glass of wine, Friday Happy Hour is a family favorite! She loves running outdoors, hitting the gym, or cheering on her beloved Brighton & Hove Albion (her hometown football team). A true travel enthusiast, Nicky enjoys discovering new destinations, especially remote sandy beaches and hidden gems, while sampling local dishes with her family along the way!

As vice president of technology, Mahesh recommends and implements innovative technological solutions for our internal and external stakeholders. He oversees the strategic direction of technology services both internally and externally, providing innovative solutions that fuel success. No matter the technological challenge, Mahesh prides himself on being able to figure it out no matter what! Mahesh has been with Etherio for more than 15 years, working with both associations and corporate clients to help them achieve their goals. Mahesh holds a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and an M.S. in Forest Products and Computer Science. He earned his PMP from the Project Management Institute. He is also a member of the PMI Atlanta Chapter and volunteers for Food4Lives. Mahesh loves to travel and volunteer. He once volunteered during Super Bowl LIII in Atlanta and got to meet celebrities and players from both teams. He has travelled to over 15 countries and 25 states in the United States.

Ruby is responsible for managing the accounting and financial reporting functions for Association clients at Etherio. Before joining Etherio, Ruby worked as a controller with notable experience in developing and evaluating operational procedures in addition to reporting and analyzing financial statements, budget development, and all aspects of monthly financial close processes. She started her career as an auditor in New York. Ruby attended State University of New York College at Old Westbury and received her CPA in Georgia and New York. A fun fact about Ruby is that she speaks English and Spanish. She likes to spend time with her family, try new foods and loves to travel!

Eli oversees Etherio's Life Sciences business unit, servicing a vast portfolio of pharmaceutical and late-stage biopharmaceutical companies. He manages the operation of a wide variety of global meetings, including commercial, medical, and international congresses. He is also a part of Etherio's Executive Leadership Committee, playing an integral role in developing our strategy and vision as an organization. Eli brings years of experience in the hospitality industry to his role. He has worked in sales and marketing with the Boca Raton Resort & Club, Inter-Continental Hotels, and Hilton Hotels. Eli is a graduate of Fairleigh Dickenson University with a degree in hotel and restaurant management. When he’s not working, Eli enjoys outdoor activities and checking items off his bucket list with his family. Some of his adventures include zip lining in Costa Rica and a catamaran sail in Mykonos.

Tina fuels success for our Meetings & Events team by managing operations and team development. She creates and implements best-in-class processes and procedures in alignment with our goals and objectives. Additionally, Tina is responsible for creating cross-functional teams to support clients' needs and foster support and guidance for all team members. Tina has a professional background in advertising. She has held leadership positions with several organizations, notably as president of USMotivation. In 2017, she launched GRATITUDESgroup, a talent optimization and culture engineering agency headquartered in Atlanta, GA. Tina attended Appalachian University, the University of North Carolina Asheville, and The Art Institute of Atlanta. She has served as the vice president of research and content and sat on the Board of Trustees for The Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) Foundation, where she is still a very active member. She is also a former president of Recognition Professionals International (RPI). Tina supports the Boyce Ansley School, an elementary school that supports children facing homelessness, and The Aruna Project, a nonprofit working towards sustained, lifelong freedom for survivors of human trafficking. She also volunteers at Buckhead Church. Tina owns a non-profit called GRATITUDESheart, which supports Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer. Her purpose statement is "Every Day I Get to Enhance the Quality of People's Lives."