Meet The Team

Dominique is the Founder of the Orlando Hospitality Alliance and former Project Director for the City of Orlando’s pioneering Nighttime Economy initiative, one of the first ten globally to formally plan and manage nightlife. She has been honored as one of Orlando Magazine’s 50 Most Powerful People and a 40 Under 40 honoree by Orlando Business Journal. With both undergraduate and master’s degrees from UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, she is recognized for her expertise in strategic partnerships, event management, and community engagement.

Ben is a commercial real estate expert with First Capital Property Group, specializing in office, industrial, and retail properties. He is skilled in marketing, social selling, and building strong client relationships that drive business growth. He also serves as President of The Milk District Main Street, supporting one of Orlando’s most vibrant cultural and business communities.

Dave is the former Chief Marketing Officer for Zaza Cuban Comfort Food, a leading Central Florida restaurant group, and a nationally recognized leader in marketing, communications, and corporate social responsibility. He was named the 2017 Orlando Sentinel Central Floridian of the Year for his humanitarian efforts and has contributed to outlets including Newsweek, Forbes, and The Hill. He has been featured in major media nationwide and serves on multiple boards, including the Orlando Hospitality Alliance.

Despina is the Director of Communications and PR at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and an Accredited Public Relations (APR) professional. She has earned multiple industry honors, including the PRSA Silver Anvil Award, FPRA Golden Image Award, and the Joe Curley Rising Leader Award. In addition to her community leadership as President of City District Main Street and Vice Chair of Visit Orlando’s Communications Committee, she is also an international play-by-play sports broadcaster.

Frank is a foodie influencer and community organizer known for curating some of Central Florida’s most popular food truck events and markets, including the Clermont Farmers Market. He is passionate about bringing people together around food, culture, and local entrepreneurship. In addition to his hospitality work, he is also a successful collectibles and vintage toy seller.

Jeff is an entrepreneur, attorney, and co-owner of V Group Concepts, where he operates a portfolio of innovative hospitality venues and ventures. He has developed and launched more than 20 businesses across diverse industries, bringing expertise in deal-making, operations, and business growth. He also serves as Secretary of the Orlando Hospitality Alliance and is recognized for his leadership, creativity, and ability to turn ideas into thriving businesses.

Karen is the Director of Tourism for Seminole County Government, where she leads efforts to position the region as a premier destination for visitors. She is highly skilled in brand development, marketing campaigns, and team leadership, with a strong background in advertising and media. She is recognized for her expertise in tourism growth, destination marketing, and strategic partnerships.

Katy is an urban planner and policy strategist with experience spanning city government, land development entitlements, home building, and national consulting firms. She holds a Master’s in Planning in Civic Urbanism from Rollins College and is accredited as an AICP, CNU-A, and LEED Green Associate. She is recognized for her expertise in public policy, sustainable development, her work with Main Streets, and community planning across Central Florida.

Monica is a multi-venture entrepreneur and consultant specializing in licensing, permitting, government relations, and grant applications for hospitality and development projects. She is the Vice President of the Orlando Hospitality Alliance and former Chair of the Orlando Downtown Development Board/CRA. Recognized as one of Orlando Business Journal’s 40 Under 40, she brings deep expertise in regulatory processes and a strong commitment to small business advocacy.

Rodrigo is a hospitality leader with over 25 years of experience managing high-volume restaurants and entertainment venues, including leadership roles with Delaware North, TopGolf, Sixty Vines, and The Bento Group. He specializes in front-of-house operations, staff training, and guest experience, overseeing teams of more than 100 employees. He is recognized for his expertise in restaurant openings, cost control, and building efficient operations that deliver memorable customer experiences.

Keith is a Florida-licensed building inspector, plans reviewer, and owner of ClientShield, a construction consulting firm specializing in owner representation and project oversight. He has served as a site manager, project engineer, and bid coordinator for leading general contractors, giving him a comprehensive view of the construction process. He is recognized as a construction expert for his ability to ensure projects meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance while staying on schedule and budget.