Team San Jose makes several new hires

Team San Jose, a non-profit economic development group dedicated to leisure and business travel in San Jose, has made several new appointments. This team will showcase the experiences delegates can expect at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center, San Jose Theaters and Visit San Jose. Karolyn Kirchgesler, CEO of Team San Jose, said: “These positions are all integral parts of our organization. We are thrilled to bring top-tier talent to the organization as we continue to propel San Jose forward as a leader and innovator in the meetings and conventions space.” The first appointment is Ihab Sabry as Chief Financial Officer (pictured left). Sabry has more than 20 years finance experience in the hospitality sector, and was previously Director of Finance for Hyatt Paradise Point Resort in San diego. Simone Harms (pictured right) joins as General Manager, having previously held positions at Sage Hospitality, The Westin San Francisco and more. Michael Riddell joins as Executive Chef. Riddell is a Bay Area native and graduate of the California Culinary Academy of San Francisco, who has spent 13 years working in fine dining. Charles Baran joins as Director of Event Operations, with 15 years of hospitality and marketing experience. He was most recently the Director of Sales & Marketing for Hotel Sorrento in Seattle. Carolyn Ng is Director of Finance, having most recently served as Director of Finance with Hilton Hotels in San Francisco.