Jenn Strutzel
President
Jenn, a seasoned veteran of the event world with over 20 years of experience, has mastered the art of crafting unforgettable moments. From orchestrating exclusive Executive launches and captivating press conferences to hosting extravagant celebrity chef dinners and epic parties for crowds ranging from intimate gatherings to massive audiences of 15,000, she's done it all. Her industry tenure has forged strong partnerships with clients and vendors, driven by her dedication to perfection. With a knack for detail, she ensures every event meets its unique objectives.
Outside of work, she cherishes time with her three daughters and savors the finer things, like wonderful Washington wines.
Andrew Strutzel
Vice President of Operations
After 12 years in Sales and Marketing leadership positions in the wireless industry, Andrew joined the team seven years ago to support event logistics and operations. With a wealth of experience in project management, marketing strategy, and budgetary management Andrew delivers instant value to his clients and a seamless experience to attendees. He loves empowering the Premier Events team to realize their full potential and creating both a unique as well as wonderful work culture.
Andrew’s free-time evaporated 14 years ago with the birth of the first of his three daughters, but he cherishes every minute. He spends most of his off-time driving to-and-from soccer practice and enjoying Washington red wines, after soccer pick-up of course. One day he hopes to clean his garage to a point where a car will finally be parked in one of the three stalls and in doing so potentially discovering where his golf clubs have been hiding all of these years.
Outside of work, Andrew's life is a whirlwind of family and fun. With three daughters who stole his heart 14 years ago, he treasures every moment spent shuttling them to soccer practice and cheering them on from the sidelines. And when the final whistle blows, he indulges in his love for Washington red wines, savoring each sip after a spirited soccer pick-up game. In rare moments of downtime, Andrew dreams of conquering his cluttered garage, envisioning a day when a car will finally claim its place in one of the three stalls. Perhaps then, amidst the organized chaos, he'll stumble upon his long-lost golf clubs, ready to hit the green once more.
Steve Baldock
Director of Strategy & Development
Steve is a gifted communicator with a passion for coaching and development. His variety of career experiences and expertise provide a solid foundation in support of our core values.
Steve enjoys well-curated playlists, sharp kitchen knives, and hikes that end on top of mountains.
Janna Fain
Director of Events
With over 15 years of event planning and project management experience, Janna has managed events ranging from 10-40,000 attendees. Whether it is an C-suite level event, a partner conference larger than most small cities, or a product launch, she brings her seasoned skills and detailed organization into all aspects of planning. Janna understands the importance and value of events as she strives to see the goals and objectives met on every project. She values the evolving event industry and finding a positive outcome in any challenge.
When Janna is not working, she is enjoying time with family as well as friends and most likely cheering on her kids at various sports and activities. Rejuvenation for Janna is found through running, being by the water, or sipping a great glass of cabernet.
Jamie Garubba
Associate Director of Events
Possessing a unique perspective with a hospitality and convention services background, Jamie brings over 10 years of event management experience to the team. Prior to joining Premier Events, Jamie worked for Starwood Hotels & Resorts as a convention services manager in one of the preeminent hotels in Los Angeles. Whether handling a 10 person meeting or a 3,000 person conference, Jamie achieved success through her client-focused attitude and high level of attention to detail. She prides herself on problem-solving under pressure and an unparalleled understanding of event logistics from multiple perspectives. There is nothing Jamie enjoys more than seeing an event come to life.
Outside of work, you can find Jamie exploring new restaurants in the Seattle area, sampling local wines, and enjoying concerts with her husband and friends.
Jennifer Pettersen
Senior Project Manager
Prior to her arrival at Premier Events, Jenn served as an account manager, overseeing and managing large Microsoft launch projects and summits. Her attention to detail, work ethic and strong client relationships became the ingredients to her success. Jenn constantly emphasizes teamwork and collaborative thinking to ensure that the needs of her clients are met. She is a driven, yet personable individual who is self-motivated and very capable of achieving any goal in which she sets her mind.
When she’s not working, Jenn enjoys being home and spending time with her family as well as enjoying the wines that Washington has to offer.
Kevin Temp
Senior Event Producer
A 15+ year event veteran and 25+ year project manager, Kevin has managed hundreds of projects ranging from large conferences, press events, product launches, entertainment production, roadshows and executive offsites. Kevin leaves no detail left behind and has a deep understanding of the entire event framework while keeping his projects on task.
When not managing events Kevin enjoys hiking, playing athletics, philanthropic projects and family.
Tim McAfee
Senior Event Producer
Tim has been managing events for over 25 years, all over the world and in six of the seven continents. As a former Microsoft employee, he managed Tech Ed and PDC, two of Microsoft flagship events back in the early 2000’s. Since then, Tim has managed everything from large conferences and tradeshows to intimate high end CXO events. Tim’s logistics expertise expands to speaker management for both in-person and digital events, along with producing countless virtual events for a wide range of clients.
Kristen Bristol
Senior Event Manager
A 25+ year veteran in the corporate events industry, Kristen has planned and executed everything from large corporate events, tradeshows, high touch CEO advisory boards, awards programs, and so much more. She plans through the lens of what the attendee experiences will be, ensuring it meets the mission/goals of the event. Even the smallest detail matters in making a memorable experience. Kristen is a trusted partner to clients, colleagues, and vendors because of her genuine communication.
When not working, Kristen enjoys spending time cooking, hiking and traveling with friends and family, and spending insane amounts of time at sporting events with her three active boys.
Justin Cavanaugh
Senior Event Manager
Justin brings with him ten years of trade show experience with an emphasis on project and account management along with six years of digital marketing experience. He is a dedicated and committed event professional overseeing and managing shows of various sizes in the technology industry.
He has a passion for fitness and is no stranger to the gym. In his spare time, Justin enjoys traveling with his husband, spending time with friends and family, and spoiling his two rescue dogs, Lexi and Niko.
Cini Ling
Senior Event Manager
Cini brings over 8 years of experience in planning and executing global events with a hospitality background. Prior to joining PEC, Cini worked for Jack Morton Worldwide in Hong Kong as an event producer leading various events including conferences, road shows, galas and corporate events all over Asia. She prides herself on multitasking, high level of attention to details, problem solving under pressure and bringing innovative event experience for clients and attendees.
Outside of work, you can find Cini spending time with her Basenji puppy Benji, trying out different cool spots with friends and enjoying the nature on a hike.
Ashley Gormley
Senior Event Manager
Prior to joining the PEC team, Ashley spent the last 10 years working in event operations at various professional sporting venues. Her unique perspective on event management comes from her experience in managing a variety of large-scale events including concerts and baseball games. Her excitement towards attention to detail and passion for cultivating meaningful relationships is what she loves most about working on events.
In her free time, you can count on Ashley to be drinking wine, chasing sunshine or watching baseball with Rookie (her puppy).
Kristen Westcoat
Event Manager
With a background in non-profit programming, project management, and digital event production, Kristen has an eye for design and detail and works hard to create experiences that are thoughtful, inclusive, and foster a deep sense of community. Kristen’s passion for creating events grew from her extensive work in restaurants and her career as a floral designer. She believes that everyone deserves a seat at the table, and that the table should be beautiful.
When not at work, you can usually find Kristen outside – gardening, hiking, or swimming – and sharing meals with friends, reading and spending time with her sweet family and silly pup.
Sherri Brady
Event Manager
With over 20 years of experience in corporate event production and management, Sherri has a broad background in event design and experiences, specializing in corporate branding. She has helped produce live and virtual events for national and global initiatives for tech companies, health care organizations and pro sporting events. Sherri believes that great event design should leverage a brand’s message to both engage and excite their attendees and audience.
When Sherri is not working you will find her running, mt biking, or snowshoeing through the local forests or paddling on the water with her husband, teen son and friends. Often seen engaging in ’type 2 fun’ map in hand, adventure racing with her team, searching for hidden checkpoints.
Claire Barnett
Event Manager
Claire has a wide range of event experience with professional sports, sponsorships, technology, government agencies & non-profits, along with many years of experience in fundraising and working alongside major donors and corporate giving. She is passionate about connecting, creating & collaborating with people about business, events & community services.
When not working, you can usually find Claire at a fun coffee shop, in a workout class, spending time with her friends & family or out on the course trying to learn golf.
Meredith Whitlock
Event Manager
Meredith has a background in corporate communications and public relations, leading news and thought leadership campaigns for clients across the technology sector. Through this she has gained a wealth of experience in brand strategy, project management and event coordination. Meredith's passion for fostering connections and community and bringing vision to reality is what she enjoys the most about working on events.
Outside of work you can expect Meredith to be spending quality time with her friends, family, and dog, staying active, researching her next adventure, or recharging by reading or watching a new TV show.
Colleen Larson
Senior Event Coordinator
With a background in design for film and television production, Colleen brings 12 years of creative project management experience to her role at Premier Events. She is passionate about planning and building thoughtful, well-designed experiences for people. Her attention to detail, expert organizational skills, and ability to solve problems under pressure make her a valued member of the team.
When not working, Colleen enjoys spending time with her family, exploring the PNW, and spoiling her dog, Peggy.
Sky Coffer
Senior Event Coordinator
Prior to joining the PEC team, Sky spent her time crafting delicious, specialty charcuterie boards for her small business, Share Boards. Being that this is her first career, Sky brings fresh perspective to the event world. Her attention to detail, authenticity, and exceptional customer service makes her a valuable asset to the team.
In her free time, you can count on Sky to be traveling, binge-watching Netflix documentaries, or spending quality time with friends and family.
Samantha Jensen
Brand Experience Coordinator
Sam brings an array of experience to the PEC team. Her previous work in the finance and telecom world has allowed her to strengthen her communication skills and attention to detail. She is passionate about seeking new perspectives and bringing ideas to life.
In her free time, she enjoys any form of exercise, exploring breweries that Washington State has to offer, and spending time with friends and family.
Ellie Carpenter
Senior Event Coordinator
Ellie came to Premier Events from several years in the nonprofit event planning world. She is passionate about creating inclusive environments where everyone feels welcome, and she prides herself on her ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Her personable nature, positive attitude, and attention to detail are the keys to her success.
When she’s not working, you can find Ellie at the beach with a good book, cuddling with her cat Franny, or in a cycling class.
Jessica Hernandez
Registration Coordinator
Prior to joining the PEC team, Jessica graduated from Central Washington University where she majored in Marketing with a minor in Event Management. After creating, volunteering, and participating in many events across campus her extracurricular activities turned into a passion. Jessica’s mission is to create change and leave a legacy through her work that brings meaning and inclusivity.
Outside of work you can find Jessica shopping for deals, practicing her makeup skills, driving her Toyota Matrix with Hello Kitty decorations, or eating food with family.
Kelsey Backer
Event Coordinator
Prior to joining the PEC team, Kelsey graduated from Central Washington University with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing, complemented by studies in Apparel, Textile, and Merchandising (ATM), a minor in Wine Industry Management, and an Event & Design Certificate. Her passion for event creation flourished through her academic journey, where she focused on crafting engaging environments and memorable experiences. Kelsey’s mission is forging meaningful connections and leaving a lasting impact through her work.
Emma Swartz
Event Coordinator
Emma brings several years of experience in live entertainment and international education administration, having managed a complex Study Abroad program. As a gifted communicator, Emma is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where people of all backgrounds can connect. Her creative mind excels in coordinating logistics and visualizing processes, all while adding an artistic flair to her work.
Outside of work you can find Emma enjoying the Seattle music scene, cuddling with her cat Cardamom, or enjoying the sunshine and a good book.
Morgan Hansen
Event Registration Manager
Morgan brings over 15 years of experience in project and program management, with a background anchored in the hospitality industry. Morgan has planned everything from corporate conferences, luxury entertainment and sporting events, charity auctions, weddings, and everything in between. Morgan believes events should foster connection through immersive and thoughtfully crafted moments. She combines creativity, resourcefulness, and precision to elevate and bring her client’s vision to life. Morgan’s passion for excellence drives her to deliver exceptional experiences.
When she is not working, Morgan enjoys running and hiking, cheering on her kid in Lacrosse and Soccer, getting her feet sandy while exploring local beaches, or savoring Washington’s local wines with friends.
Laura Karavitis
Event Registration Manager
Laura comes from the arts and entertainment world with more than 15 years of experience, working with some of America's largest professional regional theatres, touring companies, and Broadway collaborators. As a former show caller and production manager, she has a knack for managing multiple workstreams seamlessly between cross-functional teams, and thrives when working with creatives and principles.
When she's not managing shows or events, you can find her playing around Seattle with her two spaniels, enjoying local theatre, and trying new restaurants.
Sami Marshall
Event Registration Manager
With a background working at nonprofit arts organizations, Sami brings over seven years of events experience to the team. She’s worked from a venue perspective to book and manage galas, weddings, corporate conferences, board retreats, and most types of live entertainment for a broad range of clientele. Sami believes that having a cool, calm attitude and a penchant for small touches are what makes her stand out in the sometimes-chaotic world of event planning.
When she is not working, Sami can be found on her couch watching a classic movie, or off on a new excursion she insists is “just a little bit farther.”