WHO WE ARE

CUTTING EDGE ELITE IS MORE THAN AN EVENT STAFFING AGENCY.

We are an extension of you. CEE has been in the industry for 19 years and counting. We wouldn’t be where we are today without our incredible field & corporate staff as well as our loyal client base. Through leadership, dialogue, and honesty, we build teams and communities with the power to meet any expectations. When staff work with CEE they are a part of our family and more then just a “number”. We take care of our team so they can take care of our clients.

Read on to learn more about our amazing corporate staff!

 

 
  • LUCAS MENDIETA

    President/Co-Founder

    I didn’t start Cutting Edge Elite because I had a master plan — I started it because I had nothing. I was homeless, hustling to survive in New York City, sleeping on couches and carrying my resume in my backpack, hoping someone would give me a shot. What I learned in those years wasn’t just how to work — it was how to lead with heart, how to treat people with dignity, and how to create opportunity where there was none. That experience shaped the soul of CEE. We’re not just a staffing agency; we’re a company built on emotional intelligence, empathy, and second chances. I’m sharing this now not to glamorize struggle, but because I know there are people out there still trying to find their way — and I want them to see that where you come from doesn’t have to define where you’re going.

  • NATHAN PERRY

    CEO/Co-Founder

    I was born in Guatemala. A Duke University alumni, I moved to NY and encountered a love for business in founding the Cutting Edge Elite event staffing firm in 2007. I consult in various industries and am always looking forward to the next unexpected challenge. My philosophy focuses on investment in his personnel; specifically with training, direction, and teamwork. I seek to advance my businesses by innovating their service and value to both clients and employees and believe all leadership must hold itself to those standards.

  • LILIBETH FELICIANO

    LILIBETH FELICIANO

    Client Success Manager - NYC

    I have been a part of the CEE team since 2023. Living in New York for the last 20 years. With a passion for clients, events, and the organized chaos that comes with bringing an event to life, I love supporting clients and helping create exceptional experiences. As a proud mom of twin girls in high school, I know firsthand how much New York has to offer, for me, the best part this city is that there is always something new to experience, someone new to meet, and an opportunity to do what I love.

  • AMBER KEMP

    Client Success Manager - ATL

    I partner with organizations across Atlanta to understand their operational goals, workforce challenges, and client expectations, connecting them with reliable talent and customized workforce solutions. I believe exceptional staffing goes beyond filling positions—it’s about providing professionals who represent your organization with excellence and become an extension of your team. My focus is on delivering proactive service, seamless experiences, and long-term partnerships that help businesses strengthen their teams and protect their brand.

  • TERESA DAVI

    Client Success Manager - DFW

    I'm a first-generation Italian, born and raised in NYC, and now enjoying life among the palm trees in MIA. I’ve been part of the Cutting Edge Elite team since 2016! From 2017 to 2021, I managed the HR & Recruitment department. These days, I focus on strategizing and developing strong staffing partnerships with our high-volume clients like CxRA, Bronx Zoo, GP, and ATR. Outside of work, you’ll likely find me playing catch with my pup, Roo, working on an art project, or propagating plants.

  • MIRIAM GONZALEZ

    Senior Staffing Officer

    Working remote from Guatemala City and proud to be part of the great CEE team. Have locally built a career in Human Resources and always worked for companies with clients in the US, taking care of processes improvement, compliance, and general employee services.  Recently joined this ship to discover how fascinating the hospitality industry is, as part of an experienced Operations team. Love coffee and desserts!

  • MELISSA VALLE

    Staffing Officer

    Working remote from Guatemala City, I hold a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. As part of the Operations Team, I develop strong skills in communication, team coordination, client relations, problem solving and remote team coordination. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, spending time with people I care the most, good conversations, making people laugh and discovering new coffee shops and restaurants!

  • MARK YOUNG

    Enlistment Officer - NYC

  • TNARYL HINES

    Enlistment Officer - ATL

  • ANDREW KUTZ

    Enslistment Officer - DFW

  • MARIA ENRIQUEZ

    Finance Coordinator

    I’m originally from New York raised in Colombia. I joined the Cutting Edge Elite Administrative team at the beginning of the 2020 year. I obtained an Associate Degree in Health Services Administration and am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management. When I’m not at the office, I’m probably traveling to another country, eating my usual burger and fries order off of a restaurant’s menu, watching novellas (soap opera), playing on my Nintendo Switch or walking and playing with my 11-year-old Yorkshire, Max.

  • ZABDI CAN

    Executive Assistant

    I am a proud Guatemalan with experience in project and event management and a strong background in customer service. I am passionate about efficiency in project execution, providing effective solutions, and building strong relationships to deliver an exceptional client experience. I enjoy working in dynamic environments that require organization, adaptability, and attention to detail. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking and trekking, as well as giving back to my community through social projects.

  • GIDEON PERRY

    SENIOR BARKTENDER

    Woof! I joined The Cutting Edge Elite as a mere pup and am now widely considered the leader of the pack. After a rigorous and challenging 6-week training program, I rapidly mastered many essential skills in event planning and execution, including seating, dining and good grooming. I am a graduate with pedigree from Woof University and also studied at the Culinary Kibble Academy. While I like to toy around, I aim to tackle every challenge as if it is my favorite bone, which it often is. I have extensive experience in menu taste testing (invited and uninvited), social media cuteness and nap environment enhancement.