Margie McCartney

February 10th, 2026 | uzairworkmatic

How did you get into meeting and event planning?  I grew up in Pelham, New York, and my path into hospitality began very organically. A lifelong friend noticed a flyer I had created for a St. Patrick’s Day limousine scavenger hunt I was organizing in New York City and suggested I’d be a natural fit for the hospitality industry.
Her sister, who was starting a new role as Director of Marketing for a destination management company opening a New York office, arranged an interview for me. I immediately connected with the manager, was hired as a Program Manager, and quickly fell in love with the industry. From sporting competitions with New York Giants players in Lake George to refereeing beach volleyball in Bermuda, it was an incredible introduction. From there, the rest truly is history.

What is your current position and what do you do?   I am the Vice President of Business Development for JEMS Hospitality Group. The company was founded by my longtime friend and respected industry leader, Jolene Boatright, who spent 11 consecutive years as the top producer at ALHI before launching JEMS.
We are a global hotel sourcing and housing agency supporting corporations, associations, incentive programs, and law firms. Our success is rooted in a deep commitment to service and long-term client relationships. In addition to sourcing, we offer fee-based services including event registration, AV support, meeting planning, and branding solutions.
I’m also actively involved with the Legal Marketing Association in both Chicago and New York, where I volunteer and support the firm’s strong focus on legal clients. JEMS is an IATAN-accredited global travel and housing agency, and I’m proud to be part of such a dynamic and client-focused team.

What advice do you have for someone entering the hospitality industry? You truly need to be a people person who enjoys serving others. Hospitality is not about job descriptions-it’s about ownership. You can’t say, “That’s not my job.””
Early in my career, I learned that pride in what you represent matters. Whether it’s picking up a piece of paper in a hallway or going the extra mile for a client, those small actions define great hospitality professionals. You also have to believe in what you’re selling-because if you don’t, no one else will.
The industry offers endless opportunities: hotels, resorts, DMCs, national sales offices, restaurants, caterers, CVBs, and more. There’s truly something for everyone.

What have you learned on the job?  Planning is essential—but flexibility is critical. Rarely does everything go exactly as planned. Flights get missed, deliveries don’t arrive, staff doesn’t show up. Success is defined by how you pivot in those moments.
Having trusted partners and strong local contacts in each destination is invaluable. I spent 15 years with PRA Destination Management Company, and that experience taught me how powerful teamwork and preparation can be. Trust is everything in this business.

How many years have you been in hospitality?  Nearly 40 years, primarily in New York City and Chicago. I truly believe we work in the greatest industry in the world. I couldn’t imagine sitting behind a desk all day-I thrive on working with people, creating experiences, and making sure our clients shine.
When a client tells me, “You made me look good in front of my boss,” that’s the ultimate compliment. Half of life is showing up-the other half is caring.

What types of events do you plan?   We work with a wide range of clients, including corporations, associations, incentive programs, and law firms. At JEMS, we can source meetings anywhere in the world—from intimate board retreats to large citywide conventions. Our proprietary technology allows us to secure rates and availability quickly and efficiently on a global scale.

What do you love about planning events in Chicago?   Chicago has been my home for 36 years, and I couldn’t imagine a better city. It’s been named Best Big City in the U.S. for nine consecutive years-and for good reason.
From world-class restaurants and hotels to a stunning lakefront and vibrant neighborhoods, Chicago offers incredible options at every price point. Choose Chicago provides exceptional leadership and support, and of course, Here’s Chicago is an invaluable resource for discovering the city’s best venues and event spaces.

What is your favorite place in the world?  Any place where my family and friends are together. If I had to choose destinations, Australia and Ireland would top the list. I’ve been to Australia six times and am returning this fall for my goddaughter’s wedding.
Ireland holds a special place in my heart-my heritage traces back to Dublin and Cork. I’m especially excited to take friends to Kinsale this summer and hopefully reconnect with family roots on my mother’s side.

Who has been the biggest influence in your life?   My father has always been my hero. Born in 1925, he served in World War II, earning two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star during the Battle of the Bulge. After returning home, he built a life centered on kindness, humor, and family.
He loved people, loved a good time, and that spirit lives on in all of us. His example continues to guide me both personally and professionally.

What is your favorite restaurant or bar in Chicago? Butch McGuire’s. It was one of the first places my coworkers took me when I moved to Chicago, and it remains a favorite-especially during the holidays.
Recently, I won a MOTH storytelling competition in Chicago on the theme of hospitality, and a large part of my story centered around Butch himself and the way he embodied true hospitality. Those experiences stay with you.

What are your thoughts on Here’s Chicago?   I met Jim Grillo shortly after moving to Chicago, and I’ve admired him ever since. His leadership, work ethic, and dedication to the industry are unmatched. It’s no surprise that Here’s Chicago has become such a trusted and successful resource.
Jim is as Chicago as it gets-and his company reflects that spirit perfectly.