Our Team

A lot goes into planning the perfect event. And our staff would never dream of asking you to do it alone. That's why — from the time you make your first phone call, to the very last moment of your celebration — our staff of experts will guide you through the planning process down to the most minute detail.
image: Steven Rybicki, Vice President and General Manager Steven Rybicki, Vice President and General Manager
Steven began his career with Infinity and Ovation at age 15. After working in every position on the yachts, he was named Vice President and General Manager at 24. Steven credits the company's success to the skill and creativity of his employees. In 2008, he was named one of Crain's Detroit's 40 under 40 and in 2010 was recognized as an outstanding leader by Business Magazine in the 30 in their 30s issue. Steven enjoys boating, tennis, food and wine.
image: Ryan Angott, Director of Sales & Marketing Ryan Angott, Director of Sales & Marketing
Ryan is responsible for lead generation and sales at Infinity and Ovation. His marketing expertise ranges from print advertising and direct mail to on-board promotions and online marketing. He's also heavily involved in developing special offers and sales strategies, and keeping every member of the sales staff up to date on current trends. Ryan lives on Cass Lake and loves boating, golf and travel. His motto: "Live life to the fullest!"
image: Jackie Carden - Director of Cruise and Event Operations Jackie Carden - Director of Cruise and Event Operations
Jackie is the go-to girl at Infinity and Ovation Yacht Charters. In her role, she guides the operations for the vessels and provides customers with the best experience from the planning process through event execution. From designing menus and selecting décor to choosing and training staff members, nothing goes onboard until it's received Jackie's impeccable seal of approval. Jackie's favorite thing: Getting away with her husband and two children.
image: Cassandra Wilson, Executive Assistant/Office Administrator Cassandra Wilson, Executive Assistant/Office Administrator
As the Executive Assistant to the General Manager and Office Administrator, Cassandra's days get pretty busy. But that doesn't stop her from handling the accounts payable/receivables, database management, system reports and general day-to-day office duties with a smile. In her off time, Cassandra enjoys her friends and family, whether it's entertaining at home, camping or a weekend away. She credits her overall good nature to wine!
image: Cassandra Wilson, Executive Assistant/Office Administrator  Brittney Penokie, Cruise Director
With a passion for fine foods and customer relationships, a cruise directed by Brittney Penokie is charted for perfection. Brittney, an MSU graduate, brings over 20 combined years of hospitality and fine dining experience to Infinity and Ovation as well as several years of event planning.  Her love of food, beverage and meeting new people shines through in every aspect of her work. She's also an avid runner, reader and writer!
   
image: Cassandra Wilson, Executive Assistant/Office Administrator Sarah L. Hamel, Cruise Director
Subsequent to her five years with Norwegian Cruise Lines — as an entertainment specialist and as a Cruise Director — there's no question that Sarah knows cruises. Combine her knowledge with a degree in commercial recreation and exquisite sense of style, and you'll know why Sarah is a pro at creating events that are both fashionable and fun. Part of Sarah's appeal to customers is her dedication to providing a cruise experience that exceeds their every expectation. When she's not on board, you can find Sarah shooting pool, dancing, running or enjoying time with friends and family.
   
image: Micaela Reardon, Assistant Cruise Director Micaela Reardon, Assistant Cruise Director
Micaela started her career with Infinity and Ovation as a member of the wait staff. Her enthusiasm and hard work helped her transition into the role of Assistant Cruise Director. She uses her strong team building skills and easygoing personality while working with each Cruise Director to make sure every charter is a success. Micaela is a local Grosse Pointer who loves being outdoors, running, and boating.
home: Karen Servatius, Charter Coordinator Karen Servatius, Charter Coordinator
Starting her career as a Cruise Specialist at a travel agency, then moving to a land-based position as a Corporate Travel Manager has allowed Karen to bring a wealth of experience to Infinity and Ovation. Karen's natural attention to detail makes her the perfect fit for overseeing vendor confirmations, docking logistics and the Summer Cruise Series. One of the best things about Karen? She knows how to have a good time and loves to boat, Jet Ski and travel.
home: Robyn DeCew, Charter Coordinator Robyn DeCew, Assistant Charter Coordinator
After graduation from Grand Valley's Hospitality and Tourism Management Program, Robyn joined the Infinity and Ovation team as a spectacular intern. So spectacular, in fact, she was quickly promoted to an Assistant Charter Coordinator. Now, Robyn assists in the organization of Summer Cruise Series, ascertaining auction donations and vendor reconfirmations. A water girl at heart, Robyn enjoys swimming and hiking in northern Michigan alongside family and friends.
image: Bobbie Warnock, Rehearsal and Ceremony Coordinator Bobbie Warnock, Rehearsal and Ceremony Coordinator
Bobbie considers it a great honor when a couple puts their wedding ceremony in her capable hands. She takes each and every wedding as personally as she would her own — and has a proven track record for success. Bobbie's previous careers have included modeling, acting, teaching, public relations, writing, sales, consulting and, of course, event and wedding planning. Her passions are studying alternative health care and playing the piano.
image: Nicole Jaquinde, Charter Specialist Nicole Jaquinde, Charter Specialist
With over 20 years in the hospitality and event planning industry, Nicole strives to ensure that client expectations are always exceeded. Specializing in event details, menu selection, entertainment and other amenities, Nicole creates meaningful events that deliver lasting impressions. After hours, Nicole enjoys time with her husband, family and friends. She's an avid boater on Lake St. Clair, enjoys great vacations and cooking.
image: Melanie Hurst, Charter Specialist Melanie Hurst, Charter Specialist
It's Melanie's personable, friendly nature that makes her one of the top Charter Specialists at Infinity Ovation. Whether it's weddings, proms, corporate events or fundraisers, Melanie works with her clients from start to finish, ensuring the event is flawlessly executed. Outside of work, Melanie spends time with her family and friends. From Vegas trips to Michigan State tailgates, Melanie is always on the go and ready for an adventure.
   
image: Melanie Hurst, Charter Specialist Briana Vargo, Charter Specialist
After earning her degree in Marketing and Advertising, Briana found her niche — and her passion — in customer service. Her enthusiasm for helping each and every client she meets, along with her amazing attention to detail, make her the ideal Charter Specialist. Even beyond the joy of the planning process itself, what Briana loves most about her job is the honor of being involved with someone's dream wedding or important event. When she's not planning the perfect party, you can find Briana immersed in a good book or feverishly cooking in her own kitchen.

image: Jeffrey Brett Chief Engineer

 image: Captain Tom Maples image: Captain Mel Riecher image: Captain Bryan Nelson image: Captain Kevin Haisenleder image: Captain Robert Neesley
Jeffrey Brett
Chief Engineer		 Captain
Randy Jewell		 Captain
Mel Riecher		 Captain
Bryan Nelson		 Captain
Kevin Haisenleder		 Captain
Robert Neesley

 

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