The Team
Specialty Markets
Michelle Russell
Director of Global Sales
Michelle joined ALHI in 2017 and is passionate about curating relationships with both planners & our members, connecting them to create partnerships leading to the execution of successful events.
In January 2021 Michelle joined our Specialty Market team focused on connecting with planners in the Religious, Education, Fraternal, Government, Social and Sports markets in the Midwest and on the East Coast. Industry involvement includes MPI, PCMA, SGMP, IMEX, RCMA, CMCA, FFE & NIC.
Kimberly Richmond
Director of Global Sales, Destination Weddings
Kimberly earned her degree in Travel and Tourism from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, she traveled the world as Director of International Sales for Sol Meli Hotels & Resorts, after experiencing a stellar sales and marketing career with Hyatt Hotels & Resorts. She then expanded as Director of Marketing and Special Events for Saks Fifth Avenue's flagship store in Manhattan.In 2011 she combined her passion for travel with her event planning expertise and hotel background by launching an international destination wedding planning company before joining ALHI.
Kristi Walker, MBA, CMP
Senior Director, Enterprise Sales
Kristi has over 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry and has organized a vast number of events around the world. She holds an MBA from Southern Methodist University, which complements her consulting business acumen and enhances her ability to provide strategic event solutions. Kristi is a sports enthusiast, and world traveler; finding new adventures everywhere she goes.
Neil Johnson
Vice President, Esports Sales & Consulting Services
Neil is an industry veteran of 20 plus years representing destination marketing organizations like the LVCVA, LA Tourism and Events DC in the corporate, association and now gaming and esports markets. Neil has served in leadership and advisory board roles with PCMA’s Southwest & Pacific Chapter, XLive Esports Summit and the Esports & Gaming Business Summit. Neil is the recipient of Connect Meeting Connect 2018 GameChanger Award and has worked with prominent gaming and esports organizations like Activision Blizzard, Twitch, ESL FaceIt Group NBA2K League, US Army Esports, Esports Engine and more.
Jennelyn Popoter
Global Sales Associate
Jennelyn brings 10+ years of experience in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions industry. Prior to joining ALHI, Jennelyn served as part of the Events team for the Hospitality & Travel group at Questex, where she was recognized as Employee of the Year. Jennelyn’s interests include traveling, culinary arts, and luxury markets.
Jessica Philip
Global Sales Associate
Jessica graduated from the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management in 2006 and has been in the industry for the past 20 years. Starting with ALHI back in 2014, she has loved her role, the company, and getting the chance to work with so many wonderful individuals. Jessica loves live music, seeing and experiencing new places/things, and enjoys spending time with her family and friends.