Ray Kohler
Retired | Co-Founder
Ray, a Vietnam veteran of the United States Army, grew up in Portugal and Hawaii, gaining a unique global perspective. After serving our great nation from 1965-1968, Ray spent fourteen years working for TWA, further broadening his international experience. In 1981, he joined Hoffman Travel as Director of the Airport Meet and Greet department, where he worked alongside Junko. Their collaboration led to the founding of Airport Assistance Worldwide in 2004. Since retirement, Ray has enjoyed volunteering at a local animal shelter, demonstrating his commitment to his community.
Junko Okamura
Retired | Co-Founder
Junko moved to America from Japan when she was fifteen, not knowing any English. She quickly learned the language and eventually settled in Los Angeles, raising a family while balancing a job at Continental Airlines. Junko worked with Ray at Hoffman Travel for 21 years after her time at Continental. In 2004, Junko and Ray founded Airport Assistance Worldwide, an illustration of Junko’s entrepreneurial spirit and leadership. Since her retirement in 2022, Junko has devoted her time to tending to her orchids and creating precious memories with her grandchildren and the family dog.
Michele Ho
Principal
Michele, a cornerstone of the family business since its inception in 2004, proudly stepped into leadership in 2022, carrying forward the vision established by Junko and Ray. Guided by integrity and a deep respect for their legacy, she remains steadfast in upholding the company’s reputation for exceptional client care and world-class VIP airport concierge services.
With over two decades of experience, Michele leads with strength, purpose, and authenticity; honoring the company’s roots while propelling it into a new era of growth and success.
CFO
Chief Financial Officer
Our Chief Financial Officer serves as a strategic force behind the business: overseeing financial health, managing risk, guiding budgets and forecasts, and strengthening the company’s capital foundation. With decades of experience in the hospitality industry, our CFO brings both keen analytical insight and seasoned management expertise to every decision.
Beyond the numbers, our CFO is a true film enthusiast with an encyclopedic knowledge of cinema, known around the office for their uncanny ability to quote iconic movie lines on the spot!
Chris
Director of VIP Services & Executive Liaison
With a background in the travel industry, Chris brings an exceptional depth of knowledge and hands-on expertise that perfectly rounds out our elite team of specialists at Airport Assistance Worldwide. Stepping into the role of Director of VIP Services and Executive Liaison, Chris has showcased remarkable leadership from the very start, earning the trust of colleagues and clients alike with a calm, authoritative presence. In a fast-paced, high-stakes environment where precision and adaptability are non-negotiable, Chris consistently delivers, managing multiple priorities with strategic insight and unwavering focus.
Nanette
Senior Concierge Designer
With a remarkable journey that began as an LAX greeter under the leadership of Ray and Junko back in the 1990s, Nanette has grown from a dedicated airport greeter into one of the most seasoned and trusted members of the Airport Assistance Worldwide team. As our longest-tenured staff member, she brings decades of insight to every booking, from complex international itineraries to seamless coordination of large group meets. Known as our resident LAX expert, Nanette possesses an insider’s understanding of the airport’s rhythm and flow. Her genuine passion for creating smooth, stress-free arrivals and departures shines through in her exceptional ability to manage even the most last-minute, time-sensitive requests with calm precision.
Janet
Senior Concierge Designer
Janet, one of our leading experts at international bookings as a Senior Concierge Consultant, begins her day at the break of dawn, meticulously liaising with our global suppliers to orchestrate high-quality VIP arrangements for our esteemed clientele around the world.
When she’s not orchestrating seamless travel experiences across continents, Janet treasures time with her family and immerses herself in the magic of live music, finding inspiration in the energy and emotion of concerts.
Elbert
Director of Sales/Concierge Consultant
As a Director of Sales, Elbert’s role extends beyond developing and maintaining client relationships. He also plays a crucial part in educating clients about our services, attending industry-related trade shows and sales events, and keeping up with current market trends. With over 14 years at the company, he has successfully recruited numerous top-tier client agencies.
Originally from Los Angeles and now based in Dallas, Elbert is a proud family man who enjoys spending quality time with his daughters through weightlifting and classic car shows.
Jeffrey
Concierge Consultant
Jeffrey, a seasoned professional in the meet-and-greet industry, has been with the family business since 2012. His casual, laid-back style belies his deep expertise in domestic and international bookings. Jeffrey’s ability to efficiently handle even the most complicated bookings makes him a reliable and well-rounded employee.
Outside of work, Jeff’s love for the outdoors is evident. He can often be found on the beach, playing volleyball, biking, swimming, or bodysurfing.
Luis
Concierge Consultant
Luis’s professional journey began in the hospitality sector at LAX, where he worked with Elbert. His career turned when his former co-worker introduced him to Airport Assistance Worldwide. This transition marked a pivotal moment in Luis’s career. His favorite part of the job is setting up international meets for locations he’s been eyeing to visit. Outside of work, he enjoys training in Muay Thai, reading/writing music, and exploring ancient and historical sites while traveling.
Joe
Concierge Consultant
Joe’s role as a Concierge Consultant is shaped by his genuine passion for the film industry, which adds a subtle spark to his everyday work. His heartfelt love for movies brings a simple, authentic excitement whenever a new booking comes in, allowing him to help create VIP experiences that carry a touch of that cinematic warmth. Joe’s positive outlook and willingness to pitch in make him a reliable team player, lifting the mood and sharing a steady sense of encouragement and can-do spirit with those around him.
Cindy
Executive Liaison
Meet Cindy. The latest addition to the Team! Born and raised in New Jersey, Cindy brings exceptional organizational skill, discretion, and efficiency to her role as Executive Liaison to the Owner. Her background includes working with a well-known magazine and entertainment personality, as well as within the music industry, refining her expertise in coordination, communication, and high-level administrative support.