Diane is one of the country’s leading experts on citywide housing with twenty-eight (28) years of experience in the convention industry, twenty-two (22) of which have been in housing. She exemplifies the philosophy and qualities of VIP Meetings & Conventions. Prior to forming VIP M&C, she was a mathematician and computer specialist in the aerospace industry. Combined with her devotion to personalized service, Diane has successfully infused the technical discipline of advanced missile technology into all of VIP Meetings & Conventions’ operations. Diane plots the vision for the company and works closely with her staff on account management and contract negotiations.
Harry also brings an extensive technical background to VIP Meetings & Conventions. He holds a Bachelors Degree, summa cum laude, and Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania, Moore School. Formerly, he was a Member of the Technical Staff at Texas Instruments, Hughes Aircraft and TRW, Inc in the field of semi-conductor physics. Harry is responsible for all financial and fiscal management aspects of company operations. He provides leadership and coordination in the administrative, business planning, accounting and budgeting efforts.
Catherine heads the Operations Department and oversees all aspects of Client Services. She leads a team of Account Managers and Client Care Specialists who are dedicated to delivering the most personalized service possible. Catherine comes to us with thirteen (13) years of diverse professional experience. She worked in the music industry for eleven (11) years overseeing administration and client services before serving in administration and event planning on the philanthropic side of the J. Paul Getty Trust. She acts as a liaison between our clients, the convention hotels, and her staff to ensure that all objectives are accomplished on schedule. Her attention to detail and responsiveness to clients is exemplary.
Jennifer is the newest addition to the VIP team and the driving force behind our sales effort. With a bachelor’s degree in Theater Arts, magna cum laude, from Frostburg State University, Jennifer is no stranger to the art of sales and marketing. Previously employed as the Assistant Sales Manager at Bubba Gump Shrimp Company in Santa Monica, CA, she brings a high level of enthusiasm, tenacity, and passion for customer service.
Sue has over thirty (30) years in the trade show and conference industry. Formerly a client of VIP, Sue has extensive experience in all aspects of meeting planning and exhibit management and sales. Prior to joining VIP, she was in charge of three major tradeshows for Electronic Conventions, Inc., from 1979-2004. She has also been responsible for performing conference management for IEEE I&M Society, exhibit sales and operations for IEEE EMC Society & IEEE PSES Society and show management for Southcon. She received a Bachelor and Masters Degree in Education and was an educator for ten (10) years prior to her career in the convention industry.
Michael manages the technological vision of VIP Meetings & Conventions. He oversees the development, implementation, and management of in-house, on-site, and web-based technologies. With over twenty-five (25) years of computer experience, he was integral in the development of computer systems and networks for Disney, Warner Brothers, BMG Music, and the American Film Institute. Michael worked with the Convention Industry Council managing the technology developed for “Project Attrition”; the largest study ever performed on hotel attrition and related issues.
Michael is responsible for database development and support, integrating and maintaining automated systems ensuring seamless and accurate data flow between our on-line web services and our in-house database servers. Since 1993, Michael has been creating intuitive solutions for evolving housing requirements. His expertise developed over many years of computer programming and project management enables him to produce elegant and effective solutions.
Our team members have been carefully selected and possess the following qualities: Professionalism, integrity, intelligence, industry knowledge, are detail-oriented and have a passion for service!