Our Leaders

Our Founder

“My own history has shown me that with the right people and nurturing relationships, remarkable things can happen. Thus, we embarked on a journey to assemble a team of experts spanning various fields: land management, real estate development, farming, hospitality, culinary arts, spa services, landscape design, architecture, interior design and construction, just to name a few. We encourage them to think big, to imagine new and extraordinary possibilities. And I can proudly say that not only do they bring our vision to life, but they exceed our wildest expectations.”

Kama Carter

Kama is the photographer. Her leadership is a unique blend of creativity, vision and meticulous attention to detail. Like every great photographer, Kama pushes boundaries and explores new techniques. An innovative leader with a precision approach, Kama sets high standards for herself and her Southall team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and experimental empowerment. Kama is known for her engaging presence and her passionate pursuit of picture-perfect work environments in all moments. She has a photographic memory – which in her work translates into never forgetting how things are supposed to be done. Kama leads her peers in creating impressive visual and experiential narratives that resonate deeply with audiences.

Kama Is Known to Say…
“Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”

Career Highlights

• The Breaker’s Resort | Food and Beverage General Manager, Rooms Division Manager
• Houston’s (Hillstone) Restaurants | Service Manager, Corporate Trainer
• Gaylord Hotels | Senior Manager, Conference Services
• Deloitte University Center for Leadership | Executive Director

Elyse Pirri

Elyse is the therapist. The heart and soul of Southall’s team, Elyse is committed to fostering harmony and happiness, creating an environment where people feel heard, valued and united. Elyse listens sincerely and intuitively, understanding not just the words, but the feelings and intentions behind them. She has an extraordinary talent for connecting people, helping individuals find common ground even when perspectives differ, ensuring that everyone moves forward with shared purpose and trust. In her leadership role here, Elyse offers gentle yet insightful guidance – empowering her team to resolve conflicts independently, align on objectives and maintain a positive, productive atmosphere. She doesn't settle for good enough. Elyse constantly seeks ways to elevate every experience, driving projects and people from good to truly great. Elyse’s empathy, combined with her proactive approach, transforms obstacles into opportunities and challenges into chances for growth.

Elyse Is Known to Say:
“I hear you. Let’s all talk about this.”

David Mishkin

David is our architect. He has the ability to envision and realize potential where others see only blank spaces. David builds ideas and innovation and thrives in transforming open fields, empty canvases and raw concepts into groundbreaking realities. He aspires to build projects with purpose, forward-focused functionality and anticipatory aesthetics. David’s visionary approach makes him an invaluable force in the realms of development and design, consistently pushing boundaries and delivering results that exceed expectations. His work isn’t just about constructing buildings or spaces—it’s about creating transformative experiences and lasting legacies. Under his guidance, teams find clarity in complexity, confidence in their capabilities and the courage to imagine bigger.

David Is Known to Say…
“I can see something better here.”

Paul Flint

Paul is the historian. As the keeper of Southall’s truth, he leads with fact-based insight and insatiable curiosity for understanding the evolution of life, business and everything in between. Known for his passion for facts and details, Paul has a natural ability to connect the dots, bringing depth and perspective to each project by uncovering how things work and intertwine. His fascination with the intricacies of systems and history fuels his work, enabling him to draw meaningful lessons from the past and apply them to the present. His role as a knowledge keeper ensures that the team benefits not only from the information itself, but from a mindset that respects the power of learning and legacy, paving the way for progress.

Paul Is Known to Say…
“Here’s what we’ve learned.”

Career Highlights: 

• Director of Facilities and Development, Southall
• Director of Facilities, Southall

Chris Steffich

Chris is the referee. He looks intently for consistency, standards and the flow of the game. Chris knows a good referee must exhibit confidence, decisiveness and impartiality, ensuring that all players understand and respect the rules. He treats all people equally, creating a sense of fairness that upholds the spirit of competition in the game of hospitality excellence. He thrives in developing and growing people to be the best at their individual craft with a team mentality. Effective communication is another vital leadership quality for referees. Chris conveys decisions swiftly and clearly and maintains open lines of dialogue with all members on his team. As a great referee does, Chris demonstrates a high level of emotional intelligence, reading the dynamics of his operation and adjusting his approach as needed. By role modeling respect and professionalism, Chris inspires peers to exhibit the same qualities, ultimately contributing to a positive and respectful culture.

Chris Is Known to Say…
“What if we move in this direction? What do you think?”

Career Highlights

• David Rubenstein Forum, The University of Chicago | Complex General Manager
• Benchmark Hospitality | Corporate Operations, Acquisitions, and Development
• SC Johnson, Wingspread Executive Center | Complex General Manager
• Lockheed Martin Center for Leadership Excellence | Director of Food and Beverage

Caryl Hostetter

Caryl is the cyclist. She is the team member who moves ever forward with unyielding consistency and determination. Like a skilled rider leading the pack, Caryl sets the pace, pushing forward with strength and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Her commitment to achievement is contagious, inspiring those around her to match her momentum and rise to their full potential. Caryl’s leadership is marked by her unflinching focus on results. She knows the path to success is paved with persistence and precision, and she exemplifies discipline and resilience. She doesn’t just lead, she motivates; guiding the team to new heights with every mile, every challenge and every goal met. Her influence is one of forward motion and focused ambition, encouraging everyone toward shared success.

Caryl Is Known to Say…
“We’ve got this, keep going!”

Career Highlights

• The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel | Director of Human Resources
• Pelican Hill Resort | Senior Director of Human Resources
• The Ritz-Carlton, Boston, MA | Human Resources Manager

Andrew Klamar

Andrew is the student. A passion for discovery and curiosity fuels his mastery of the culinary arts. A self-learner, Chef Andrew studies his craft, exploring flavors, techniques and cultures. His thoughtful approach reveals the joy he takes in learning about new flavors and textures, gaining insight through his dedication to cuisine crafted with a profound respect for ingredients and techniques. His kitchen isn’t just a workplace – it’s a space for exploration and transformation, where each team member is encouraged to reach their full potential. Through his quiet wisdom and relentless curiosity, Andrew fosters an environment where growth, excellence and passion come together to create unforgettable culinary experiences.

Andrew Is Known to Say…
“Let’s try this…”

Career Highlights

• McCradys Restaurant, Charleston, SC | Chef de Partie
• Hermitage Hotel, Nashville, TN | Executive Sous Chef
• Durham Hotel, Durham, NC | Chef de Cuisine

Vincent Dreffs

Vince is a scientist. A master of invention, he brings big ideas to Southall and an electrifying energy. Vince is always experimenting, blending unique elements and unconventional ideas to create experiences that leave a lasting impact. His approach is hands-on and bold, as he dives deep into every facet of event-making, from the smallest detail to the biggest "wow" moments, making events truly unforgettable. Vince leverages his diverse professional experiences, hobbies and technical skills to propel the team to new heights of innovation and coolness. With Vince at the helm, projects take on a life of their own, bursting with originality. The experiences he invents resonate with guests and are remembered long after the final curtain falls.

Vince Is Known to Say…
“I have this idea.”

Career Highlights

• Mt. Brighton Ski Area, | Lounge and Grill Supervisor
• Detroit Sysco | Marketing Representative, National Accounts
• Gaylord Entertainment | Director of Catering Operations
• Dreffs For Success | Chief Success Officer for Events, Education and Engagement

Zach Parks

Zach is the strategic explorer, the backpacking traveler of business strategy. He is methodical, prepared and ready to adapt to any landscape. Known for his resourceful approach, Zach brings only what’s necessary to move the business forward, relying on thoughtful planning and precise data to navigate complex challenges. He analyzes the present with keen insight, ensuring that every recommendation is grounded in a clear understanding of the company’s needs and trajectory. With an amazing ability to balance flexibility and structure, Zach navigates the ebbs and flows of business demands, seamlessly shifting focus as new priorities arise. His data-driven mindset allows him to pinpoint opportunities and guide the team toward the most impactful paths, ensuring resources are used efficiently and effectively. He doesn’t just react to change – he anticipates it, making sure the team is always prepared for what’s ahead.

Zach Is Known to Say…
“Let’s go this way!”

Career Highlights

• JW Marriott, New Orleans, LA | Assistant Director of Finance
• Grand Hyatt / Union Station Hotel | Assistant Director of Finance
• 1 Hotel Nashville | Director of Finance