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Meet the Team!
We LOVE what we do – and what we do is to help create your journey to be successful in the wonderful world of hospitality! Our passion is to see you grow, learn and embrace through one of our international programs – an adventure that will change your life!
We are always here to help and are excited to get you started, so drop us a message! Let the ever so lovely Yummy Jobs team take YOU on an adventure! #MYYUMMYSTORY
Jason Smith
Founder & CEO
Meet Jason — our founder, CEO, and the guy who started it all with a dream (and a Disney name badge).
Jason’s journey began with a Management Training Program at Walt Disney World Resort, where he fell in love with hospitality and the power of creating unforgettable experiences. That passion turned into Yummy Jobs — a mission-driven adventure that’s helped thousands of young people kickstart careers around the world.
He’s also the co-founder of the Yummy Jobs Hospitality Foundation, backing big dreams and opening doors for the next generation of hospitality stars.
Always push outside your comfort zone - you’ll never look back!
Mark Lees
VP, International Programs and Operations
Mark’s no stranger to the thrill of working abroad — he’s done it five times (and has the stories to prove it).
Before joining the Yummy Jobs crew in 2017, Mark jumped into every USA work program he could find. Disney’s Cultural Exchange? Tick. Cultural Representative Program? Yep. Swan & Dolphin J-1? You bet. If it involved sunshine and a name tag, he was there.
With a Bachelor’s in International Travel & Tourism Business and a Master’s in HR Management, Mark pairs real-world adventure with serious know-how — helping others chase the same epic experiences he once did.
Share your motivations and be proud of your past accomplishments. Our goal is to help you succeed..
Lucy-Ann Huskisson
Director, Visa Compliance and Operations
Lucy-Ann’s J-1 journey didn’t just change her life — it set the stage for everything she does today.
A proud alum of the Disney Cultural Representative Program (2013–2014) and two other J-1 adventures in the USA, she now works her magic behind the curtain. From visas and logistics to making sure every little detail is spot on, Lucy-Ann’s the reason our programs run like clockwork.
She’s the calm in the travel chaos. The spreadsheet whisperer. The one making sure your once-in-a-lifetime goes off without a hitch.
Make sure you read all the program eligibility requirements before applying; if you are not sure about anything, ask!
Brandon Clifford
J1 International Programs Recruitment Manager
Brandon brings big energy and even bigger ideas to the Yummy Jobs team.
With a background in international sales, marketing, and recruitment, he’s led strategic growth for some of the biggest names in the business. These days, he’s focused on expanding opportunities across Africa and Europe — building partnerships, opening doors, and helping young people take their next big leap.
Smart, driven, and always thinking one step ahead, Brandon’s all about turning bold plans into real-world impact.
Share your motivations and be proud of your past accomplishments. Our goal is to help you succeed..
Neus Flores
Talent Relationship Manager - LATAM
Neus brings hospitality know-how and a love for creating great experiences to the Yummy Jobs team.
Originally from Mexico and now based in the UK, she’s worked in Puebla, Paris, Barcelona, Orlando, London, and Edinburgh. In 2015/16, she took part in our Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin J-1 Program, training in the Rooms Division and gaining first-hand insight into world-class service.
With a degree in Hotel Management and years of on-the-ground experience, Neus is passionate about helping others grow their careers in hospitality.
Always be yourself and take any opportunity that makes you feel scared but at the same time excited, you’ll never regret it!
Kirsty Clyne
Work and Travel Participant Experience Lead & Brand Specialist
Kirsty’s got the inside scoop — she’s done not one but two Yummy Jobs programs herself. With two degrees and a knack for all things social (she’s our resident TikTok star), Kirsty brings creativity, Gen Z vibes, experience, and a deep understanding of what makes each program special.
With her roles in our marketing and Work and Travel recruitment, Kirsty connects students with unforgettable opportunities across the USA while keeping our community inspired and informed online. From the first post you see to the moment you land your dream placement, she’s cheering you on every step of the way.
On program? Tag us. Got great content? Send it her way. She’s always buzzing to see what our Yummy family is up to out in the world.
Don't dwell on small things - reach out if you have any questions, and remember what your motivations are. Stay patient and trust the process.
Helen Cowart
Work and Travel Employer Relations Lead
Originally from the UK and now based in sunny Florida, Helen brings over 20 years of experience in customer and guest service — including a decade with Walt Disney World and time at 5-star resorts in Colorado and Canada. A proud Yummy Jobs alum, she first joined Disney through the Cultural Representative Program in 2004 and recently completed her bachelor’s degree in business administration.
When she’s not making the magic of YJ happen, you’ll find Helen travelling, cruising, or spending time at theme parks with her husband and pets. She loves sitcoms, classic 90s nostalgia (especially TMNT), and believes the best advice is simple - be yourself, ask questions, stay confident, and reach for the stars.
Be yourself, ask questions, be confident in who you are and reach for the stars!
Gabriella Wertheimer
Work and Travel Program Assistant
Originally from Brazil and now living in Canada, Gabi participated in one of the Yummy Jobs programs and wanted to get involved to help other people get that life changing experience. She is working on her bachelor's in political science and minor in communications, some might say she’s a professional yapper.
Gabi’s true passion is traveling and meeting people from all around the world, when she’s not working or in class, she’s probably looking at google flights or learning a new language!
Show your passion and get involved! Enthusiasm and hard work will always make you stand out.
Montse Lobato
Recruitment Manager, Mexico
With a background in hospitality, comms, and customer experience, Montse is all about creating feel-good moments and lasting connections. She’s spent her career making guests feel seen, heard, and genuinely looked after — always with a personal touch.
When she’s not bringing good vibes to the team, you’ll find her forest-walking with her dog, nose-deep in a novel, or hunting down her next favourite flavour. She’s big on people, passionate about great service, and always curious to see the world through someone else’s eyes.
Be yourself and let your passion for hospitality shine, every great journey starts with authenticity and a smile!
Monica da Silva
J1 Programs Manager
Monica brings over a decade of international experience in Hospitality and Sustainable Tourism, having worked and lived across five countries on three continents. With a degree in Anthropology, Monica is driven by a deep curiosity and passion for people and cultures.
Her background in service-oriented and sustainability-driven sectors has refined her ability to connect with individuals, recognize human potential, and build meaningful relationships across a wide range of cultural contexts.
Do your homework! Aligning with a hotel’s vision and values not only sets you apart but ensures a more meaningful experience. And always come to interviews prepared - it shows confidence, respect, and professionalism.
Angelique Legassick
International Recruitment Coordinator
Angelique is all about people. She creates positive environments, builds strong connections, and supports others as they grow.
With several years of experience in South Africa’s hospitality industry, she brings leadership, insight, and a genuine passion for helping others succeed. Her focus is on finding the right opportunities to help candidates build a future they can be proud of.
Angelique leads with purpose, positivity, and a whole lot of heart.
Be open-minded, spread your wings and never be scared to take on an exciting new opportunity. Enjoy every moment and experiences of the program!
Dawn McKinney
Senior Recruiter & Business Development Partner
Dawn knows the US hospitality scene inside and out, and she’s here to help others thrive in it.
With over 20 years’ experience across hotel management, culinary and banquet operations, HR, and J-1 and H-2B program management, she brings both deep industry knowledge and a genuine passion for people. She’s developed training programs for top US properties, supported college recruitment, and helped hundreds of young professionals find their perfect-fit roles.
Whether it’s career coaching, cultural insights, or visa know-how, Dawn makes the process feel clear, doable, and exciting.
Be positive, don’t be afraid of mistakes as they teach you, and form your own opinions not follow those of others.
Jessica Bellout
Operations Manager
Jessica brings over 20 years of luxury hotel and club management experience to the team, with a career that started waiting tables and led all the way to the kitchen as a professional chef.
Her love for hospitality runs deep, especially when it comes to training and mentoring the next generation. With four years of hands-on J-1 and H-2B program management under her belt, Jessica knows how to guide young professionals toward real growth and opportunity.
She’s all about connection, community, and helping people reach their hospitality goals with confidence.
Never let fear of the unknown hold you back from new experiences. Be professional and be prepared to ask questions.
Jen Bhagirath
H2B Operations Assistant Manager
Jen joins the Yummy Jobs team with a passion for helping people explore the world through meaningful work and cultural exchange and empowering individuals to create meaningful international experiences. She brings a wealth of experience in employment visa operations, combining organizational skills paired with genuine care for creating positive, life-changing experiences for every participant.
Jen is an educator and teaches courses that inspire curiosity, cultural awareness, and effective communication. Her background in both education and international education and program management reflects her passion for connecting people, cultures, and opportunities across the globe.
Step into every opportunity with curiosity and courage - every experience builds your skills, broadens your perspectives, and shapes the impact you can have in the world.
Maria Ruiz
H2-B Client Services Manager
Maria keeps everything running smoothly from behind the scenes.
Based in Miami with her husband and two boys, she brings a wealth of experience in legal compliance, data management, and documentation. With a sharp eye for detail and a love for staying organised, Maria plays a key role in making sure everything’s in place, on time, and done right.
She’s the kind of person who makes complex things look easy — and keeps the wheels turning for the whole team.
Make sure your résumé highlights your most recent and relevant experience, along with any certifications or key skills. If your past jobs were different, don’t worry—just focus on the transferable skills you gained.
When meeting an employer, be yourself. Smile, be polite, and let your natural personality come through. A positive attitude and speaking confidently about your experience can really set you apart. Show genuine enthusiasm for the role—it shows you’re prepared, capable, and excited for the opportunity.
Karla Martell
H2B Client Services Manager
Karla Martell has been working in the international education field since 2010 and brings a genuine passion and enthusiasm. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from Pace University in Pleasantville, NY. Originally raised in Yonkers, NY, Karla has called Orlando, FL home for over 20 years.
When she’s not working, Karla loves reading romance novels, hunting for the best shopping deals, and connecting with different cultures. She’s a proud mom to a teenage son, a loving dog mom and auntie, an enthusiastic plant mom, and she enjoys spending quality time with her family whenever she can.
Don’t forget your smile! It’s your secret ingredient for making a great first impression.
Alexis Smith
Managing Director
Alexis wears a lot of hats — marketing, client and candidate relations, and everything in between.
She’s lived the cultural exchange experience herself, with a J-1 program in the USA during her twenties and two internships in Italy. That first-hand insight fuels her passion for helping others grow through travel, work, and connection.
For Alexis, it’s all about the people. She’s driven by the belief that international programs don’t just build careers — they build confidence, social skills, and lifelong memories.
Show your people skills. Hospitality is all about great guest service—highlight your communication, teamwork, and positivity.
Be adaptable. Working in a new country means new cultures and routines. Show you’re flexible and eager to learn.
Let your personality shine. A warm smile and genuine enthusiasm make a strong impression.
Use your transferable skills. Customer service, multitasking, and problem-solving all count—even from non-hospitality jobs.
Come prepared. Research the company and culture so you show confidence and interest from the start.
Jennifer Reid
International Programs Coordinator
Jen is all about the details. The small things that make a big difference.
As our International Programs Coordinator, she supports candidates every step of the way, from paperwork and prep, to making sure everything is ready to go. Jen is the calm voice and steady hand behind the scenes.
She helps make the journey smooth and stress-free, so you can focus on the exciting stuff ahead.
Be honest and down to earth, never be afraid to ask questions, the only wrong question is the one you don’t ask.
Siobhan O'Leary
Chief People Officer
Siobhan brings over 25 years of senior HR leadership to the table, with a career spanning top-tier names like Hyatt Hotels, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, The Carlyle (a Rosewood Hotel), and Rosewood Hotels and Resorts Corporate.
Her international experience has shaped careers across the globe, and she’s proud to have mentored individuals who’ve gone on to do great things in the industry. Originally from New Orleans and now based in New York City, Siobhan believes that strong values are at the heart of every successful organisation.
She’s passionate about creating results — not just for businesses, but for the people who power them.
Approach new situations with curiosity, ask a lot of good questions, don't compromise your personal values.
Kay Munday
Visa Compliance Specialist
Kay is our go-to for all things visa compliance. She’s here to turn tricky rules and red tape into clear, simple steps you can actually follow.
With a sharp eye for detail and a calm, can-do approach, Kay makes sure everything stays on track and above board. She’s worked across a range of visa pathways and knows the ins and outs like the back of her hand.
From document checks to deadline reminders and those “is this normal?” moments, Kay is here to guide you every step of the way.
Be positive and enthusiastic and enjoy your program and the experience.
Jaye Kirby
Accounts and Finance
Jaye is the numbers whiz behind the scenes, making sure everything adds up just right.
As the go-to in our Finance and Accounts department, Jaye brings precision, focus, and a sharp eye for detail to everything they do. Their work keeps Yummy Jobs running smoothly, so the rest of the team can focus on creating life-changing experiences.
Reliable, thoughtful, and quietly essential — Jaye is the reason the back end works like clockwork.
Be confident and friendly, ask any questions you are not sure about and don’t be afraid to take on something new and exciting!
Looking to work
with Yummy?
You’ll be joining a passionate, people-first team that’s all about creating life-changing opportunities—and having a good laugh along the way.
Contact us now
