Meet The Staff

Tonya Hufford

General Manager Tonya Hufford, CMP

Tonya joined the Monterey Conference Center team in 2001 as an Event Coordinator and in 2018 she became the Operations Supervisor. In March 2023, Tonya was promoted to the General Manager position. She is an active member for the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM), Green Meeting Industry Council's (GMIC) and the Convention Industry Council (CIC). She is a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and in 2014 became an inaugural graduate of GMIC's Sustainable Events Professional Certificate (SEPC) program.

“My favorite thing to do in Monterey is having a sunset bonfire at the beach with family and friends.”

Sales and Events Team

Olga Maximoff

 

Sales Coordinator Olga Maximoff

Olga joined the sales team in 2009. She brings her experience in hospitality, sales and catering/conferences services gained at other Monterey Peninsula properties, including Pebble Beach Resorts.  Olga enhances the sales efforts with her invaluable database administration knowledge.

“My favorite thing to do in Monterey is go to the beach and test the theory that every seventh wave is the biggest. Try it! You will find yourself in an amazing state of bliss.”

Paige Smith

 

Event Coordinator Paige Weaver

Paige joined the Conference Center as the Event Coordinator in 2018. She has over ten years experience in the Hospitality Industry. Paige has worked with local wedding planners at various event properties as well as with high-profile hotels such as Cypress Inn and Carmel Valley Ranch. Her experience brings a well-rounded understanding of event practices and knows what it takes to produce successful events for the best client experience. 

"My favorite thing to do in Monterey is bring my family here to experience the local restaurants, beautiful scenery, and watching the ocean wildlife."  

Robert Willoughby

 

Event Coordinator Robert Willoughby

Robert started his career in Monterey in 2018 as a Sales Coordinator at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. He then took on a new challenge in 2020 as the Track Rental Coordinator welcoming groups to the home of the world famous Corkscrew for an average of 330 days per year. Robert has an extensive event background from international motorsport events to NCAA Division I athletics with a variety of associated hospitality events. His passion is providing the best experience to every guest and bringing them back to his hometown, Monterey. 

"My favorite thing to do in Monterey is to go for a cruise around town, especially during Monterey Car Week!"