Jenn Strutzel
Founder + President
Jenn is the visionary behind Premier Events, where the mission is clear: to create memorable experiences that foster human connections. As Founder and President, Jenn leads with over 23 years of commitment to building a strong, empowered team and cultivating trusted relationships with clients and industry partners. Her expertise spans executive engagements, experiential activations, and large-scale conferences, blending strategic precision with creative flair. Jenn’s leadership philosophy centers on collaboration and trust, ensuring every event reflects purpose, connection, and excellence.
Jenn’s philosophy reaches beyond her professional world, embracing the value of quality time with friends and family, with a belief that connection is at the heart of every memorable experience. Outside of work, Jenn finds joy in the outdoors, savoring great meals, and enjoying exceptional wines.
Andrew Strutzel
Vice President, Operations
After 12 years in sales and marketing leadership positions in the wireless industry, Andrew joined Premier Events seven years ago to bring his expertise in project management, marketing strategy, and budgetary management to the world of events. His experience has equipped him to deliver instant value to clients and ensure seamless experiences for attendees.
At Premier Events, Andrew oversees logistics and operations while empowering the team to realize their full potential. He is passionate about creating a supportive and collaborative workplace, where strong relationships and a unique culture drive both team and client success. His leadership blends strategy with a people-first mindset, ensuring every program is executed with care and purpose.
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
Executive Director, People Development
Steve is a gifted communicator with a passion for coaching and development. His diverse career experiences and expertise have given him a strong foundation to support both clients and colleagues while staying true to Premier Events’ core values.
At Premier Events, Steve leads strategy and development while supporting many different aspects of the business, ensuring both clients and colleagues feel supported. He thrives on building people up, driving collaboration, and ensuring that every initiative reflects both purpose and creativity.
Outside of work, Steve enjoys crafting well-curated playlists, testing out sharp kitchen knives, and seeking hikes that end with breathtaking mountain views.
Janna Fain
Director, Event Experience
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
Director, Event Experience
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 Event Strategist
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
Production Strategist
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
With more than 25 years of global event management experience, Tim has produced programs on six continents and across every format imaginable. During his time at Microsoft, he managed flagship events such as TechEd and PDC in the early 2000s. Since then, Tim has led everything from large-scale conferences and tradeshows to intimate, high-level CXO gatherings. His expertise also includes extensive work in speaker management for both in-person and digital formats, as well as producing countless virtual events for a wide range of clients.
At Premier Events, Tim serves as a trusted client and partner strategist, guiding projects from initial planning through execution. He drives budgets, production, and team coordination to deliver seamless experiences, tackling challenges with a calm, solution-oriented approach. Known for his innovative thinking, Tim leverages decades of global event expertise to transform client goals into impactful event experiences
Outside of work, Tim enjoys spending time with his family, working out, dirt bikes, BMX bikes and reading books.
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 over a decade of trade show experience, with a strong background in project and account management, along with six years in digital marketing. Having overseen and managed shows of all sizes within the technology industry, he is known for his dedication, commitment, and ability to keep programs running seamlessly.
At Premier Events, Justin serves as a direct client and partner liaison, translating objectives into purposeful event strategies and managing the full lifecycle of projects. From budgeting and planning to on-site execution and post-event wrap-ups, he ensures every detail is aligned with client goals. Whether producing in-person or virtual events, Justin is passionate about creating experiences that are both impactful and memorable.
Outside of work, Justin has a passion for fitness and is no stranger to the gym. He also enjoys traveling with his husband, spending time with friends and family, and spoiling their two rescue dogs, Lexi and Niko.
Cini Ling
Senior Event Manager
Cini brings more than eight years of experience planning and executing global events, built on a foundation in hospitality. Before joining Premier Events, she worked with Jack Morton Worldwide in Hong Kong as an event producer, where she led conferences, roadshows, galas, and corporate programs across Asia. She is recognized for her ability to multitask, maintain strong attention to detail, problem-solve under pressure, and create innovative experiences for clients and attendees alike.
At Premier Events, Cini partners directly with clients and internal teams to translate goals into thoughtful event strategies and ensure flawless execution from start to finish. She manages every phase of the event lifecycle—whether in-person or virtual—ensuring projects run efficiently and deliver memorable results. Cini takes pride in designing experiences that not only meet objectives but also leave lasting impressions.
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 more than 25 years of experience in corporate event production and management, Sherri has built a broad background in event design and execution, with a specialization in corporate branding. She has produced live and virtual events for national and global initiatives across industries including technology, health care, and professional sports. Sherri believes that great event design should leverage a brand’s message to both engage and excite attendees, creating experiences that leave a lasting impact.
At Premier Events, Sherri leads client accounts and serves as a trusted partner to clients, vendors, and internal teams. She manages all aspects of the event lifecycle—from budgets and planning to vendor coordination and on-site delivery—translating client goals into experiences that are impactful and memorable. Whether producing conferences, product launches, or branded experiences, Sherri ensures events run efficiently while keeping the attendee experience at the center. She enjoys creating moments that both resonate with audiences and reinforce brand storytelling.
Outside of work, Sherri can be found running, mountain biking, or snowshoeing through the local forests; or paddling on the water with her husband, son, and friends. She also embraces “type 2 fun” as an adventure racer; map in hand, searching for hidden checkpoints with her team.
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
Event Manager
With a background in design for film and television production, Colleen brings 15 years of creative project management experience to her role at Premier Events. She is passionate about creating thoughtful, well-designed experiences, and her detail-oriented, organized, and creative approach makes her an asset to the team.
At Premier Events, Colleen leads client accounts and coordinates multiple aspects of both in-person and virtual events, including flagship conferences, press events, product launches, and private gatherings. She works hand-in-hand with clients, vendors, and internal teams to bring every detail of an event to life—coordinating logistics, keeping budgets on track, and ensuring the final experience reflects the client’s vision. Colleen uses her creative project management expertise to turn big-picture ideas into well-executed details, making sure every element works together to create an experience that feels seamless and memorable for attendees.
In her free time Colleen enjoys spending time with her family, renovating her home, and spoiling her dog, Peggy.
Sky Coffer
Event Manager
Prior to joining the PEC team, Sky ran her own small business, Share Boards, crafting specialty charcuterie boards. Bringing a fresh perspective to the event world, she combines attention to detail, authenticity, and exceptional customer service to create thoughtful and memorable experiences.
At Premier Events, Sky takes ownership of key event elements and client relationships, helping bring both in-person and virtual experiences to life. She coordinates with clients, vendors, and internal teams to manage logistics, production, and budgets, while ensuring every detail reflects the client’s vision. Known for her proactive communication and calm, solution-oriented approach, Sky keeps projects organized and on track while contributing ideas and insights that elevate each event.
In her free time, you can count on Sky to be traveling, reading a self-help book, working on an art project, or taking a walk in the Arizona sunshine.
Samantha Jensen
Senior Event Coordinator
Sam brings an array of experience to the PEC team. With a background in finance and telecommunication, her past work experience has helped strengthen her communication skills and attention to detail. She is passionate about exploring new perspectives and bringing creative ideas to life, ensuring that each client and attendee experience is thoughtful and engaging.
At Premier Events, Sam plays a key role in assisting with internal deliverables, including PEC’s culture team initiatives, social media strategy, quarterly team offsites, and engagement programs. Sam also supports client-facing events and strives to make every event a memorable experience through thoughtful planning and collaboration.
In her free time, she enjoys any form of exercise, exploring the breweries that the state of Montana 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.
At Premier Events, Ellie takes ownership of key elements across her events, collaborating with clients, vendors, and internal teams to bring each experience to life. She manages budgets, production elements, and project documentation while leading functional areas of events and ensuring alignment with client goals. Known for her thoughtful approach and proactive communication, Ellie keeps projects organized, contributes ideas that elevate the experience, and helps ensure seamless execution from planning through on-site delivery.
When she’s not working, you can find Ellie reading her Kindle with her cat, Franny, snoozing next to her.
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, 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 is driven by a mission to forge meaningful connections and leave a lasting impact through her work.
At Premier Events, Kelsey supports internal deliverables and coordinates elements of both in-person and virtual events, including conferences, trade shows, product launches, and private gatherings. She works closely with project managers, clients, and internal teams to manage schedules, documentation, and logistics, ensuring accuracy across budgets, workback schedules, and event plans. Kelsey also contributes to internal resources and project debriefs, helping maintain smooth operations and the successful execution of each event.
Outside of work, Kelsey enjoys a good thrifting run, cuddling with her cat Hershey and dog Peanut, or soaking up the sunshine while paddle boarding.
Emma Swartz
Event Coordinator
From her work in live Theater to managing a complex collegiate study abroad program, Emma brings several years of experience in live entertainment and international education administration to the Premier Events team. As a gifted communicator, she 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.
At Premier Events, Emma supports internal deliverables and project coordination for both in-person and virtual events, including conferences, trade shows, product launches, and private gatherings. She collaborates with project managers, clients, and internal teams to manage schedules, documentation, and operational tasks, while helping maintain accuracy across budgets, workback schedules, and event plans. Emma also contributes to internal resources, project debriefs, and team collaboration to ensure each event is executed smoothly and reflects the client’s vision.
Outside of work, you can find Emma enjoying the local music scene, cuddling with her cat Cardamom, or enjoying one of Seattle’s beautiful beaches.
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 in the nonprofit arts, Sami brings over nine years of event experience to the team. She has managed galas, weddings, corporate conferences, film festivals, and a wide range of live entertainment, combining a cool, calm attitude with attention to detail to create seamless and memorable experiences.
At Premier Events, Sami oversees registration logistics and coordination for both in-person and virtual events. She partners with clients, vendors, and internal teams to manage schedules, registration data, and project documentation, while supporting smooth communication and operational efficiency across all aspects of each event. Sami also contributes to internal resources and project debriefs, helping ensure every detail aligns with client goals.
When she is not working, Sami can be found on her couch watching a classic 90s movie, playing pinball in Capitol Hill, or off on a new excursion she insists is “just a little bit farther.”
Katella Wright
Event Coordinator
Katella joined Premier Events with a strong foundation in both Entrepreneurial Studies and Hospitality Management, having graduated from Grand Canyon University. During her academic journey, she sharpened her event planning skills by volunteering at various events in the Phoenix area and working with a university hospitality team focused on organizing events for prospective students.
Prior to joining PEC, Katella gained valuable planning experience in the wedding industry. She worked with a diverse range of clients and vendors across Western Washington, combining her organizational skills with her creative flair in both event planning and design. Katella’s true passion lies in helping clients bring their unique visions to life through careful planning and the creation of meaningful, memorable experiences.
Outside of event planning, Katella enjoys a bit of wedding planning of her own. An avid reader and outdoor enthusiast, she enjoys hiking, running, and kayaking, making the most of everything the Pacific Northwest has to offer.
Kevin Lynch
Registration Coordinator
Kevin has a background in event management, logistics, and project coordination, with experience supporting major corporate events, including Microsoft Ignite and HubSpot INBOUND. With a foundation in engineering and problem-solving, he brings a detail-oriented and efficiency-driven approach to event registration and operations. He thrives in dynamic environments, ensuring seamless guest experiences and smooth event execution.
When he’s not working, you can find Kevin backpacking, running, playing soccer, and frequently plunging into the frigid waters of the Puget Sound.
Katie Cross
Event Coordinator
Katie is a dedicated and highly motivated Event Coordinator at Premier Events. Through her experience in the hospitality industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge in customer service, administrative coordination, and communication. As a former Division 1 college swimmer, Katie brings relentless drive, calm under pressure, and commitment to her team to create memorable events for clients.
At Premier Events, Katie manages and coordinates client events from start to finish. Drawing on her background in hospitality, she combines organizational skill and client-focused service to oversee logistics, schedules, documentation, and budgets. Katie brings the same commitment and attention to detail to every project, ensuring each experience is executed seamlessly and leaves a lasting impression.
Outside of work, Katie enjoys open water swimming and sharing her passion for the sport by teaching swim lessons. She also loves thrifting for unique finds and spending time at her local library, where she enjoys reading and discovering new books.
Nicole Lourette
Event Registration Manager
Nicole brings ten years of event management and logistics experience to the team within global associations, specializing in new and engaging user experiences. She thrives on translating stakeholder vision into impactful events that attendees want to return to time and again. With an extensive background in event marketing, she finds consistent communication, storytelling, and feedback loops paramount to a successful event.
At Premier Events, Nicole leads external deliverables and serves as a direct client and partner liaison in support of registration for both in-person and virtual experiences for conferences, industry meetings, trade shows, product launches, press events, and other branded experiences.
When she’s not in the office, she can be found exploring the hiking trails of the Pacific Northwest or adding new books to her home library.
Katie Burris
Senior Operations Manager
Katie began her career in advertising planning before transitioning to operations seven years ago. Both fields require a sharp attention to detail, and she now brings that expertise to the behind-the-scenes work at Premier Events Corp. In her role, she supports operational logistics, ensuring that accurate and efficient processes allow our events to shine in the spotlight.
Outside of work, she and her husband keep busy with their three boys. As a family, they enjoy skiing, wake surfing, traveling, and taking in sports wherever they can. Although, the biggest family passion of all is their Goldendoodle, Bimini.
Alena Korobko
Brand Experience Coordinator
Alena brings a global perspective and a passion for connection to her role at Premier Events. A UC Berkeley graduate in Psychology, she has lived in four countries and traveled to more than 40 where she has developed a deep appreciation for culture, communication, and creating meaningful experiences. Her background includes competing as a Division I beach volleyball player, coaching volleyball, and leading international education initiatives. She has also created programs abroad that foster community and cultural exchange.
At Premier Events, Alena supports the growth of the company’s brand presence, manages digital platforms, and helps deliver events that share stories, foster connection, and strengthen team culture through meaningful, people-centered moments. She also provides operational support, oversees reporting and bookkeeping, and collaborates with vendors, venues, and colleagues to ensure seamless execution. Energized by cultivating relationships and shaping positive culture, Alena is passionate about creating spaces where people feel inspired, valued, and part of something memorable.
Outside of work, Alena enjoys traveling, exploring new activities, going to concerts, playing volleyball, and spending time with her loved ones.