Team
Linda Herald
General Manager
Linda Herald
General Manager
Since joining the Wenatchee Convention Center in 1999, Linda Herald has brought decades of experience in hospitality and sales leadership. Her deep roots in the Wenatchee community, where she’s lived since 1979, are reflected in her dedication to building relationships and creating memorable experiences for clients and guests. Known for her outgoing personality and strong sense of community, she is an active volunteer with numerous local and statewide organizations, including the Washington Society for Association Excellence, Washington State Apple Blossom Festival, and Wenatchee Applarians. When not leading the team, she enjoys camping with her family, travel, photography, and hiking.
Motto: “Stronger together through service.”
Leonard Silva
Executive Chef
Leonard Silva
Executive Chef
Leonard is a versatile and imaginative chef whose culinary leadership spans fine dining, high-volume operations, catering, private clubs, luxury resorts, private homes and corporate dining. Rooted in the orchard-rich heart of Wenatchee, he blends global sophistication with local charm—crafting menus that celebrate the region’s apples, riverfront beauty, and mountain spirit. Whether designing intimate tasting experiences or orchestrating large-scale events, Leonard and his culinary team bring creativity, precision and a deep sense of place to every plate. His passion for honest cuisine and better sourced ingredients honor both tradition and playful innovation.
Kyle McCubbin
Director of Operations
Kyle McCubbin
Director of Operations
With over two decades of experience in hospitality and venue management, Kyle leads all operational aspects at Wenatchee Convention Center. From facility oversight to event execution, he ensures every detail runs smoothly to create exceptional experiences for clients and guests. A U.S. Army veteran and former catering business owner, Kyle brings a strong background in leadership, logistics, and team development. He’s passionate about mentoring staff, optimizing operations, and embracing the energy that each unique event brings. Outside of work, Kyle enjoys traveling the world—especially by cruise—and spending time with his growing family, including his new granddaughter.
Motto: No Problems, Only Solutions.
Amber Holcomb, CGMP
Sales Manager
Amber Holcomb, CGMP
Sales Manager
A proud Washington State University graduate with a degree in Hospitality Business Management, our Sales Manager has been with the Wenatchee Convention Center since 2010. With a strong background in food & beverage and the hotel industry, she specializes in helping meeting planners coordinate the initial pillars of their event—from accommodations and meeting space to catering and A/V support. Passionate about promoting Wenatchee and building lasting client relationships, she is also actively involved in the Society of Government Meeting Professionals. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, home projects, traveling, and spending time with her family. Go Cougs!
Mayra Avina
Events Manager
Mayra Avina
Events Manager
Mayra has been with the Wenatchee Convention Center since 2014, leading the planning and execution of events ranging from weddings and quinceañeras to conferences and trade shows. She holds a Fashion Merchandising degree with a Hospitality minor from Washington State University and brings creativity and organization to every event. Mayra loves the variety in her work and seeing each client’s unique vision come to life. Outside of work, she’s often on the soccer field with her kids or spending time at her family’s farm in Chelan.
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Erik Murphy
Banquet Manager
Erik Murphy
Banquet Manager
A lifelong Wenatchee Valley local, Erik Murphy has led the Banquets Department at the Wenatchee Convention Center since 2014. With a strong background in catering and banquet management, Erik ensures every event runs smoothly behind the scenes—from intimate gatherings to large-scale functions. He brings energy, attention to detail, and a passion for hospitality to every shift. Known for his love of sports and pop culture, Erik also studies sports analytics and marketing trends in his free time. When he’s not at work, he also enjoys relaxing with his wife and dogs, catching a game, or spending time with family.
Motto: “Try not to become a man of success but rather become a man of value.” –Albert Einstein
Derick Murphy
Banquet Manager & AV Specialist
Derick Murphy
Banquet Manager & AV Specialist
Derick Murphy has been a Banquet Captain and Lead Audio Visual Specialist at the Wenatchee Convention Center since 2008. With a background in catering, banquet management, and A/V setup, Derick plays a key role in ensuring seamless events. He enjoys working alongside his coworkers and meeting people from all walks of life. Outside of work, Derick is passionate about vintage pop culture, sports, and technological entertainment. In his free time, you might find him thrifting, magnet fishing, or spending time with friends and family.
Motto: “Iron sharpens iron” –Demarcus Ware.
Marco Hernandez
Banquet Captain
Marco Hernandez
Banquet Captain
Bio coming soon
Anna Varela
Sales & Events Coordinator
Anna Varela
Sales & Events Coordinator
Since joining the Wenatchee Convention Center in April 2024, Anna has played a key role in planning and executing events from start to finish. With a passion for helping clients bring their visions to life, she works closely with the sales and events teams to ensure every detail is just right. Known for her collaborative spirit and creativity, she thrives in the center’s supportive team environment. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, home projects, and once even appeared as an extra in the Dave Franco film Somebody I Used to Know—filmed in nearby Leavenworth.