Team & Board
Meet The Crew

President
Gar Giles
Gar Giles, a visionary leader and seasoned executive, serving as Vice President of Global Expansion for Ciright Inc. With a successful track record of driving international growth, he has made remarkable contributions to the company’s expansion strategy. Gar’s journey is characterized by a commitment to innovation, leadership, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Gar embarked on his educational journey at the prestigious University of Virginia, where he graduated in 1991 with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and African Studies. Fueled by a passion for law and business, he pursued further studies at the University of Michigan, earning a Juris Doctor in 1994. With a strong foundation in law and business, Gar cultivated a dynamic career, honing his skills and expertise across various industries. However, it was his tenure at Ciright that truly showcased his exceptional abilities.
As the Vice President of Global Expansion, Gar played a pivotal role in the company’s international expansion and success. His leadership and strategic acumen were instrumental in establishing a thriving office in India, which currently boasts a workforce of 70 dedicated employees. Under his guidance, the India office has become a hub of innovation and collaboration, contributing significantly to the company’s global success.
One of Gar’s most remarkable achievements was bringing to market and productizing Ciright’s cutting-edge technology products. His visionary approach and ability to identify emerging trends led to the development and launch of game-changing technology solutions that have set new industry standards. These innovative products have not only propelled Ciright to the forefront of the industry but have also transformed the way businesses operate in the digital age.
Gar is not just a business leader but a visionary who believes in fostering a culture of excellence, creativity, diversity and teamwork. He continues to inspire and lead Ciright into new frontiers hence, BRKFEST the new venture that will revolutionize the live entertainment sector and empower artists and underrepresented individuals globally.
Outside of the boardroom, Gar is an avid supporter of education and philanthropy, actively participating in initiatives that aim to make a positive impact on society.

Interim VP Operations
Jay Nixon

VP Production
Grover Washington

Director of Food & Beverage
Rob Cottman
Chef Rob’s road to professional kitchens was driven by an entrepreneurial spirit when a unique opportunity presented itself to operate his own restaurant. After selling his first establishment, he decided to return to the basics and climb the ranks in established kitchens. Absorbing every ounce of knowledge around him, he accepted a position at World Cafe Live’s former location in his hometown of Wilmington, DE and spent years covering all aspects of the business from large scale a la carte service to formal catered dinners to specialty pairing menus. Now as the Executive Chef and Director of Food & Beverage at World Cafe Live in Philadelphia, Rob is responsible for the dining experience of over 100,000 guests a year, overseeing service in two spaces daily and over 200 catered events annually while playing an integral role in the next stages of the organization’s development. Rob is also a LEADERSHIP Philadelphia Fellow.
Staff
Briana Clarke » Education Program Manager
Cortez Dessus » Facilities Manager
Joe Kusy » Graphic Designer
Lola Ojo » Events Manager
Michael Stiltner » Bar & Beverage Manager
Anthony Taggert » Sous Chef
Bo Rains » Grant Coordinator
Interested in joining the WCL team? Visit our employment page here to see current openings and apply.
Board
Isha Ahijo » Events
Timmy Allen
Joseph Callahan
Val Chavenson
Allison Dunn » Facilities
Early Gaynor
Lauren Hart
Steve Lubin
Gerry Marini
Stacey McGee
Veniece Newton » Strategy
Chris O’Brien
Rob Penn
Katie Samson
Alex Shaw
Martha Snider
Hurchel Young
Robert Woltjen
Yameen Allworld (Jeffrey Nix)