JUNO Continues Expansion as New Era of Events Emerge
May 14, 2021
JUNO, a leading software company distinguishing itself in the virtual/hybrid era, has brought LaDonna Whitaker on board as vice president of sales. The hire is the latest in a series of moves Juno is making to bolster its leadership as the events industry moves past the COVID-19 lockdown and into a new frontier of engagement.
Whitaker arrives at JUNO from Virgin America, a company that rose in prominence under the guidance of her team. Among Whitmaker’s many impressive firsts in a career leading travel’s intersection with technology, Whitaker was the first sales associate hired for Experdia’s corporate start-up division.
With each step, Whitaker has left a positive mark for the company and the involved industries as well. Juno expects her arrival to be a catalyst for even further growth as events reinvent themselves through a blend of innovative tech and experiential in-person gatherings.
“LaDonna’s experience in technology and with events means she can help clients over the barriers they face in confusion over technology, cost of implementation and confidence in making the right choice,” said Josh Hotsenpiller, CEO of JUNO. “She is an ideal leader for the team on a mission to share our brand and how JUNO supports events and associations.”
At its center, JUNO is working toward a solution uniting attendees without borders, geographic or otherwise. It envisions becoming the all-in-one platform for education, networking, events and more.
There is not a moment to lose, Whitaker said.
“I chose JUNO because I believe firmly this company exemplifies values I share and because we have the technology that transforms live events into living ecosystems that connect communities year-round,” she said. “JUNO is the game changer that will disrupt the industry. My ultimate goal is to show the world how JUNO will rock their world!”
Indeed, JUNO has been collecting a veritable all-star team of industry leaders to pave its way forward, Steve Abramson was recently tapped as chief financial officer, a position that will utilize his 15 years of experience in large, global private equity-backed companies, as well as start-ups and fast-growing tech companies.
“JUNO is staying true to its mission while expanding the number of client partners we serve,” said Hotsenpiller. “Steve’s close collaboration with sales and operations teams will allow us to continue accelerating our market share and to continue winning investment dollars to scale smartly.”
Said Abramson, who was most recently vice president of commercial finance at Indigo Ag, a technology startup: “I believe in the people and the culture we are building here at JUNO. We are moving to a future state where virtual events will become more of the norm, and I think it’s super exciting to have the opportunity to help shape what those experiences will look like.”
Meanwhile, Joel Guthrie was named JUNO’s director of demand generation. He said, "I joined JUNO because of their ruthless desire to innovate. This team does the impossible while still maintaining an incredible culture. I've had the opportunity in my career to be a part of some of the fastest-growing SaaS companies and none of them compare to the rate of growth here at JUNO. JUNO is going to the moon, and I couldn't miss out on that opportunity."
Don’t miss any event-related news: Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter HERE and engage with us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram!
Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here.
New Wave Experiences
Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024.
Enhanced Technology
Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space.
Refreshing New Design & Fine Art
The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights.
Sustainable Spectacles
Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles.
The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.
Add new comment