Meet the Team
Kurt Benkurt, Co-Founder
Meet Kurt, a distinguished partner at Xenia and the visionary architect of sales and revenue expansion. With an extensive and multifaceted background spanning every facet of hospitality—including elite hotel and restaurant management—Kurt possesses an unparalleled ability to diagnose and eliminate barriers to growth. His expertise extends from bespoke wine consulting to curating high-impact private event sales strategies, making him an invaluable force in driving sustained profitability and prestige.
Beyond sales, Kurt understands what truly fuels success in hospitality—seamless guest experiences, strategic partnerships, and operational efficiency.
Kurt also brings a unique perspective to the intersection of hospitality and healthcare, recognizing the growing demand for elevated service standards within medical and senior living spaces. His experience in integrating hospitality-driven principles into healthcare environments helps organizations enhance patient and resident experiences, drive satisfaction, and improve operational efficiency—bridging the gap between care and service excellence. His ability to identify revenue opportunities, optimize service flow, and elevate brand positioning makes him an essential driver of Xenia’s growth. Whether developing tailored sales strategies, refining hospitality concepts, or mentoring teams to maximize performance, Kurt’s expertise ensures Xenia’s clients achieve lasting success in an ever-evolving industry.
Annalise Long, Co-Founder
Annalise is the powerhouse behind Xenia's seamless operations and strategic vision. With an innate passion for hospitality and a sharp business acumen, she brings a wealth of industry expertise, ensuring every aspect of the business—from revenue generation to flawless execution—operates at the highest level. Her deep understanding of sales, service, and operational excellence allows her to identify opportunities for growth, refine guest experiences, and drive profitability. Whether orchestrating high-profile events, optimizing efficiency, or mentoring teams to deliver unparalleled hospitality, Annalise is the heartbeat of Xenia’s success.
Her expertise extends beyond hospitality, with a strong foundation in the insurance industry and high-level sales. Having navigated the complexities of client relations, risk management, and revenue strategy, Annalise brings a dynamic, results-driven approach to business development. Her ability to analyze market trends, negotiate deals, and implement sales strategies translates seamlessly into the hospitality space, giving Xenia’s clients a competitive edge in driving sustainable growth.
At the core of Annalise’s philosophy is the belief that relationships are the foundation of a thriving hospitality business. From fostering strong connections with clients and vendors to cultivating a culture of excellence within teams, she knows that genuine hospitality extends beyond service—it’s about building trust, loyalty, and lasting partnerships. Her ability to create meaningful relationships not only enhances guest experiences but also drives long-term success, ensuring Xenia’s clients stand out in an increasingly competitive industry.