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Brooke Scott came to Leading Authorities, Inc. after years working in the events industry, working on events, conferences, exhibits, and experiential marketing at Hargrove, Inc. She worked on a variety of political events, including the Presidential Inauguration and the Democratic National Convention. Some notable brands that Brooke has worked with in the experiential marketing world include Stella Artois, Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, Coca-Cola, Ford, Starbucks, La Colombe, Wayfair, Sonos, Under Armour, Puma, and Netflix.

Ryann McDonald joined Leading Authorities, Inc. as a Program Consultant in the Spring of 2021. She brings over 6 years of hospitality and event planning experience to the firm. She started her career as a front desk agent, working her way up to Group Sales Manager at one of the most well renowned Hilton properties in Washington, DC. Ryann’s outgoing personality and ability to build meaningful client relationships has led to the overall success of her projects.

Megan Wein knows that finding the perfect event strategy for a client can move hearts and minds—that’s why she was drawn to working at LAI in event sales. With a background in major gift fundraising and marketing and branding for noteworthy non-profit organizations—Megan knows how to listen intently and brings strategic insights to every conversation. As a graduate of George Washington University and a Chicago resident, she can talk about global politics and simultaneously give advice on the best restaurants for deep dish pizza in the Windy City.

James Major joined Leading Authorities in January 2019 and looks after business development in the UK, Europe, Middle East and Asia.

What James loves about the job is helping clients find the absolute best speaker and top quality video and event production for their event.

Before joining LAI he worked in event sponsorship, with over 14 years’ experience within sales.

James’ personal interest include travel, cooking, cinema, and a love of everything Italian (especially the cuisine).

As a former political consultant, I was drawn to Leading Authorities because of my interest in politics, current affairs and the importance of a good event.

I love all sports and played tennis at Newberry College where I earned a degree in Political Science. In my free time I enjoy playing golf and tennis, traveling and spending time with friends and family.

Originally hailing from London, James Cohen is passionate about people and events and unlocking their fullest potential. After he received a Masters in Political-Science from Tel-Aviv University, James served in the military. Before landing at Leading Authorities, James was a Business Development Manager for a tech company working with private equity firms, Fortune 500 companies, and family offices. 

In his free time, James enjoys motorcycles and going on hikes with his dog, Poppy. 

Lisa McFadden loves the energy of meetings and events. Since 2004, she has helped Leading Authorities' clients bring people together to share ideas, learn new concepts, and hear from the industry’s thought leaders in every category included event design. Lisa excels at big picture strategy, helping clients create a fully integrated event plan that goes beyond just picking an individual speaker for a slot.

Jeff Robbin works on the sales team as a Vice President for Leading Authorities. He works with our clients to book top speakers and quality event production for their meetings and events. Jeff was born and raised in Providence, R.I.

He graduated from the George Washington University with a B.A. in Political Science in 2012 and has lived in D.C. ever since. Jeff is a die hard Boston/New England sports fan and an avid skier. He enjoys reading, movies, and even after six years of living in D.C., he loves visiting historical Washington landmarks and walking around the National Mall.

For over fourteen years, Lisa Raines has helped clients design programs that engage, excite, and inspire meeting attendees. As a veteran member of the sales team, she has seen change in the industry and in the way clients design events. Lisa asks targeted questions to get to the core of a client’s meeting objectives, and make sure her recommendations are a good match.

A sports fanatic and diehard Redskins fan, Lisa loves booking sports personalities. A favorite booking is Pat Croce, the former president of the Philadelphia 76ers and a powerful motivational speaker. 

Katy Foster started at Leading Authorities as an intern and quickly rose up the ranks, serving as a production assistant and then the digital marketing coordinator before ultimately taking her skill set to sales. Her clients now benefit from her extensive marketing and live event production knowledge as she helps them choose the right fit for their events. She believes that when a meeting goes well, it makes a huge difference to an organization’s culture. She enjoys helping clients get the most out of both their event and their experience with LAI.