About Us

At Meeting Excellence, we value integrity, creativity, and professionalism.

It is important that we listen to your needs, learn about your company and culture, and provide exceptional customer service. In the 15 years Meeting Excellence has been in business, we’ve retained every full-time member of our team. As a result of this consistency, we have a reputation of executing impeccable events.

Over the years we have developed a trusted network of contractors that allow us to expand our services as needed. We truly enjoy what we do, which shines through in every way. Let us take care of you!

President and CEO

Ben Carrick

“I love to spend time with my horses. Whether in the saddle for a national competition or a relaxing ride, I am able to center myself and reflect on the fact that life is good.”

I’ve been in the incentive travel and meeting planning business for over 20 years and have 12 years of experience in the hotel industry. During this time, I gained a wealth of knowledge and experience, and developed a true passion for the industry. This enthusiasm and dedication culminated in the creation of ME. Having the opportunity to apply my professional skills and abilities to a job that I love is truly rewarding.

Director of Operatons

Sue Schlimme

“The best seat in the world is on the sideline of a tennis court after a fierce match. I love the fresh air, competitive spirit, and drive that a good game brings out in me.”

I have 25 years of experience in the corporate incentive travel industry. My experience as Director of Operations at Landmark Incentive Marketing and Travel Director at Maritz Travel allows me to bring a unique global perspective to our daily operations. The best thing about ME is that each of us strives to go beyond what is expected. I believe this sets us apart from other vendors.

Director of Sales

Kory Oplinger

“My favorite place to be is in the driver’s seat, physically and metaphorically. I am a self-confessed control freak, who can also let loose and have fun!”

My background includes over 17 years of customer service–oriented sales experience. I have worked for small businesses and a big corporation, both in business-to-business and business-to-customer sales. Having this broad history helps me to accurately assess a client’s needs in order to develop an effective strategic and tactical plan. I appreciate being part of a team that enjoys what they do, offers a customer-oriented mentality, and is dedicated to a positive client experience.

Meeting Planner and Travel Director

Gina Grigaliunas

“I enjoy being mobile via my beach cruiser. Allowing me freedom of movement to discover something new daily makes it the best seat in my hometown of Chicago.”

As a Certified Meeting Professional with 26 years of experience in the industry, I have developed a true passion for people and travel. I am fortunate to have visited more than 50 countries and be a part of the corporate hospitality programs in 2 Olympic games. I believe that developing and maintaining strong professional relationships is key to ensuring exceptional program execution. There’s a lot of laughter and smiling at ME; our attitude and skill allows us to develop lasting relationships with our clients.

Meeting Planner and Travel Director

Jane Henderson

“Nothing makes me feel more alive than being in the mountains. The exhilaration of riding a chairlift to the top of a peak and skiing or hiking down makes my day.”

I have over 23 years of experience in the incentive and corporate meeting planning industry. I’ve managed onsite operations for many Fortune 500 companies, specifically in the pharmaceutical and financial industries. My profession has allowed me to travel to 6 of 7 continents and be a part of the hospitality management team in 5 Olympic games. I respect the ME team’s adventurous spirit, commitment to positive working relationships, and natural ability to assess situations quickly and accurately.

Meeting Planner and Travel Director

Jamie Moores

“It’s all about the outdoors for me.  Whether swimming, hiking, or snowboarding, being able to take a breather and appreciate nature is invigorating and relaxing.”

Having been in the travel industry for 20 years, I’ve had many exciting and diverse experiences, including successfully managing a hospitality program for an Olympic Winter Games, negotiating global contracts with multinational clients, and directing over $35 million worth of business at a top travel-management company. The caring corporate culture at ME is the perfect match for my passions and skills.

 

Meeting Planner and Travel Director

Joceyln Els

“I love to spend time outdoors; be it hiking, biking, or running on a trail. A warm, sunny day in the woods, on a path less traveled is a great place for me to be.”

My background includes 22 years of hospitality service with a blend of travel directing, meeting planning, and customer-oriented positions. I strive to ensure the client’s creative ideas and business goals are met for each conference and event. What I like about being a part of the ME team is their loyalty and ability to offer superior customer service. 

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