The Team
Specialty Markets
Cesar Wurm
Senior Vice President, Member Strategy & Development
Cesar Wurm is the SVP of Member Strategy & Development at ALHI, where he leads with a member-first approach to deepen engagement, drive retention, and enhance value for a global portfolio of luxury hotel members.
Previously, Cesar served as VP of Commercial, Premium Brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts in the U.S., bringing a wealth of experience from leadership roles at IHG, Starwood, Trust Hospitality, and Hotel Equities.
Beyond the boardroom, Cesar is a devoted husband and father who enjoys spending time with his wife Laura and daughter Gabby. A passionate Formula One fan, he also dedicates time to advocating for addiction recovery—a cause close to his heart. His journey to sobriety is captured in his book, The Powers of Addiction: Finding Freedom in Acceptance and Recovery, where he shares his story to inspire and support others on their path to healing.
Cesar's impact has been recognized through honors such as Marquis Who’s Who 2023 and the Empower Role Model List – 2022 Top 100 Executives.
Kimberly Richmond
Vice President of 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.
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.
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.
Barry Kushner
Director, Global Sales Luxury & Leisure
Barry has joined the ALHI Global Sales team, bringing his expertise to the Luxury & Leisure division. With over 30 years in the travel industry, Barry has developed a deep passion for creating exceptional travel experiences and building meaningful relationships. A consistent top seller throughout his career, he is recognized for his ability to drive new revenue, elevate brand awareness, and foster long-term partnerships. Outside of work, Barry enjoys spending quality time with his family, exploring new adventures, relaxing on the water with a fishing rod in hand, or cheering on his favorite sports teams.
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.