WHO WE ARE

CUTTING EDGE ELITE IS MORE THAN AN EVENT STAFFING AGENCY.

We are an extension of you. CEE has been in the industry for 14 years and counting. We wouldn’t be where we are today without our incredible field & corporate staff as well as our loyal client base. Through leadership, dialogue, and honesty, we build teams and communities with the power to meet any expectations. When staff work with CEE they are a part of our family and more then just a “number”. We take care of our team so they can take care of our clients.

Read on to learn more about our amazing corporate staff!

 

 
  • LUCAS MENDIETA

    President/Co-Founder

    Raised in South Carolina, I went from being homeless as a teen to launching the Cutting Edge Elite, now with offices in multiple cities… I am truly living the American dream. I bring my street smarts and people skills to the table which has proven a priceless skill in the sales & staffing departments. I’m a lover of tattoos, bow ties & horror movies. My favorite thing to do is travel abroad – ideally to a peaceful island.

  • NATHAN PERRY

    CEO/Co-Founder

    I was born in Guatemala. A Duke University alumni, I moved to NY and encountered a love for business in founding the Cutting Edge Elite event staffing firm in 2007. I consult in various industries and am always looking forward to the next unexpected challenge. My philosophy focuses on investment in his personnel; specifically with training, direction, and teamwork. I seek to advance my businesses by innovating their service and value to both clients and employees and believe all leadership must hold itself to those standards.

  • TIM BERRYMAN

    Vice President

    Hailing from the UK, I have had an extensive career in the hospitality and events industry. Working as a Stage and Tour Manager in London's West End, I honed my skills in managing complex schedules and tight deadlines. After spending some time working at a performing arts camp, I was recruited as a Staffing Director for one of New York's largest catering companies where I oversaw the hiring of hundreds of top-notch professionals. Outside of work, I play the ukulele and have joined a band.

  • TERESA DAVI

    Client Success Manager

    I'm a first-generation Italian, born and raised in NYC, and now enjoying life among the palm trees in MIA. I’ve been part of the Cutting Edge Elite team since 2016! From 2017 to 2021, I managed the HR & Recruitment department. These days, I focus on strategizing and developing strong staffing partnerships with our high-volume clients like CxRA, Bronx Zoo, GP, and ATR. Outside of work, you’ll likely find me playing catch with my pup, Roo, working on an art project, or propagating plants.

  • ARLETY ESTEVEZ

    Account Success & Culinary Staffing Manager

    I’m Arlety Estevez, Culinary Business Development Manager with over a decade in hospitality and staffing. Originally from the Dominican Republic and raised in New England, I bring Caribbean warmth and East Coast hustle to my role at Cutting Edge Elite in Atlanta, where I lead our culinary division with a focus on growth and team development. Previously, I contributed to the success of BenchConnect by Compass Group and Wolfgang Puck Catering. A Johnson & Wales alum and award-winning pastry artist, I love traveling, exploring cultures, and finding inspiration in everything from relaxing in a tropical hammock to fine food and wine in Italy.

  • MARIA HENRIQUEZ

    Administrative Coordinator

    I’m originally from New York raised in Colombia. I joined the Cutting Edge Elite Administrative team at the beginning of the 2020 year. I obtained an Associate Degree in Health Services Administration and am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management. When I’m not at the office, I’m probably traveling to another country, eating my usual burger and fries order off of a restaurant’s menu, watching novellas (soap opera), playing on my Nintendo Switch or walking and playing with my 11-year-old Yorkshire, Max.

  • GINAEL ALEXANDER

    Sales & Recruiting

    Raised in the Bronx, I currently live in the Hudson Valley, NY. I am part of the Recruitment Team at Cutting Edge Elite. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Arts, TV &amp, Radio Production, from Hofstra University. I also went back to school, during COVID, and received by MBA in Business Management from Mercy College. Besides my years in hospitality, my work experience includes sales administration, customer, and administrative support. My personal time is spent with extended family and friends, watching countless movies, playing Words with Friends, and taking care of my 12-year-old rescue terrier-mix, Nhala.

  • MIRIAM GONZALEZ

    Staffing Officer

    Working remote from Guatemala City and proud to be part of the great CEE team. Have locally built a career in Human Resources and always worked for companies with clients in the US, taking care of processes improvement, compliance, and general employee services.  Recently joined this ship to discover how fascinating the hospitality industry is, as part of an experienced Operations team. Love coffee and desserts!

  • MONISHA WATKINS

    HR Coordinator

    My name is Monisha, and I serve as the HR Coordinator with CEE. I’ve loved living in the Atlanta area for the past three years and enjoy all it has to offer. Growing up as a military brat, I had the unique experience of living in two countries and four states, which shaped my adaptability and broadened my perspective. I hold a B.S. in Public Health from Central Washington University, and my professional journey includes roles in Property Management and Human Resources, where I am passionate about supporting others and fostering positive workplace environments. Outside of work, I enjoy time at home with my Tuxedo cat, Nova, who keeps me entertained with her playful personality. I also enjoy hanging out with my friends, family and just going where the day takes me. 

  • SAMANTHA WHEELER

    PR & Marketing Manager

    Born and raised in Queens, NY, I traded city lights for Hudson Valley’s scenic trails—but my New York spirits still strong! After graduating from Queens College with a degree in Fashion and Textiles, I kicked off my marketing career as a social media intern at Ca Creative. From there, I jumped into the Home and Furnishings world, working with icons like Ralph Lauren and Martha Stewart. I’m thrilled to bring my passion for community engagement and brand-building to CEE as the PR & Marketing Manager. When I’m not crafting campaigns, you’ll find me outside, exploring Hudson Valley or on long walks with my pup Zeus, a pitbull-lab mix with a big heart.

  • DOMINIC L. HART

    Staffing Officer & NYC Ranger

    I am a South Bronx, New York native. I have cultivated a diverse career that spans various roles ranging from customer service, investigations, hospitality, and more. With a robust background in public service and the private sector, I have honed a unique skill set that allows me to connect with individuals from all walks of life and learn the importance of relationships and community. I believe in uplifting those around me and encouraging individuals to step outside their comfort zones and explore new opportunities. I am passionate about sharing my insights and experiences to motivate others on their journey, helping them thrive as leaders in whatever endeavors they pursue.

  • ZABDI POCOP CAN

    Executive Assistant

    A proud Guatemalan, experienced in project and event management, with a strong background in customer service. I’m dedicated to providing efficient solutions and building strong relationships to ensure an exceptional client experience. Outside of work, I enjoy staying active by hiking/trekking and giving back to my community through social projects.

  • HEATHER BERG

    Recruiting and Training Manager

    Originally from the Twin Cities (yes, Minnesota nice is real), I have been in the Hospitality business in one way or another for longer than I can remember. While I lived in Los Angeles, I worked at various unique serving and bartending venues alongside years of events and catering. Working for several private chefs and catering companies helped hone my leadership skills both in and out of the field. I joined CEE when I started a new chapter by moving across the country to Atlanta - becoming the Head of Recruitment and Training as well as throwing myself onto events whenever possible.

  • GIDEON PERRY

    SENIOR BARKTENDER

    Woof! I joined The Cutting Edge Elite as a mere pup and am now widely considered the leader of the pack. After a rigorous and challenging 6-week training program, I rapidly mastered many essential skills in event planning and execution, including seating, dining and good grooming. I am a graduate with pedigree from Woof University and also studied at the Culinary Kibble Academy. While I like to toy around, I aim to tackle every challenge as if it is my favorite bone, which it often is. I have extensive experience in menu taste testing (invited and uninvited), social media cuteness and nap environment enhancement.