Meet the Benchmark Global Sales Team

Turning New Destinations Into New Possibilities

For John “JMac” MacMullen, Senior Director of Business Development, every conversation starts with discovery.

“My job is to go find new, wonderful partners within the industry who are looking to source some of our beautiful destinations around the United States,” he explains.

Based in Port St. Lucie, Florida, JMac specializes in introducing meeting planners to properties and destinations they may never have considered before. In many cases, he becomes both a hospitality consultant and a local expert.

“I get to find new meeting planners in our industry that may not be familiar with our hotels, or in some cases even the destinations that our hotels are in.”

That’s increasingly valuable in today’s meetings landscape. Event planners are under pressure to deliver fresh experiences while balancing budgets, accessibility, attendee expectations, and business objectives. The result? They’re looking beyond traditional meeting hubs and exploring destinations that offer authenticity and a stronger sense of place.

JMac thrives in that role, helping clients uncover hidden gems and unexpected opportunities.

When he’s not introducing planners to new possibilities, you’ll likely find him pursuing another passion.

“I’m an avid sailor. I’ve spent a lifetime out on the water, and if I’m not in the office, I’ll be floating somewhere.”

It’s a fitting hobby for someone whose career is built around charting new courses.

Creating Events People Talk About Long After They’re Over

Ask Mousumi “MJ” Johnson what drives her, and the answer comes quickly: people.

As Director of Global Accounts, she serves clients throughout Texas, the Southwest, and specialty markets, including oil and gas. Yet her focus extends far beyond logistics.

“I just love creating memories for my clients,” she says. “I’m here to listen and to help find that special destination.”

That listening-first mindset is increasingly important. Today’s attendees expect more than a standard event experience. They want meaningful interactions, memorable environments, and moments that create genuine connections.

MJ understands that successful events leave a lasting impression.

“I want you to talk about the experiences with your friends, your families, your coworkers long after the event.”

Perhaps the most telling part of her approach is how she measures success. It’s not simply about closing a deal or executing a flawless event.

“Nothing makes me happier when I see the evolution take place from the client relationship evolving into a genuine friendship.”

That perspective reflects one of hospitality’s oldest truths: people may forget an agenda, but they rarely forget how an experience made them feel.

Outside of work, MJ channels that same passion into volunteer efforts with the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, while also making time for reading, painting, running, and cheering on the Texas Longhorns.

As she puts it, “No two days are alike.”

And that’s exactly how she likes it.

Experience Matters When Every Event Has a Vision

Patti Caulfield brings a unique perspective to the Global Sales Team because she has lived on both sides of the equation.

Before joining global sales, she worked at one of the company’s properties, helping organizations plan successful meetings and events firsthand.

That experience gives her a deeper understanding of what clients need and what it takes to deliver exceptional results.

“I worked with a lot of Northeast companies and organizations and built some really strong relationships and connections.”

Today, as Director of Global Accounts for the Northeast region, Patti works with organizations across industries, including the pharmaceutical, insurance, banking, and professional development sectors.

Her goal is simple: connect clients with destinations that match their vision.

“I enjoy being able to offer my support and guidance for those companies in helping them connect to the best locations within our portfolio that match all of the wishes and visions that they have for successful group events.”

That combination of operational knowledge and relationship-building expertise helps bridge a critical gap in event planning. Clients don’t just need options—they need confidence that the destination they choose can deliver on their goals.

When she’s away from work, Patti’s competitive spirit takes center stage.

A self-described sports fanatic, she enjoys baseball, basketball, golf, beach days, and spending time with her large extended family.

In many ways, those interests mirror her professional approach: bringing people together and creating memorable experiences.

Building a Team—and a Community

Leading the Global Sales Team is Vice President of Global Sales, Meetings, and Destination Experiences, Paul “Paulie” Bashaw.

His hospitality journey began in 1991, and his enthusiasm for the industry hasn’t faded.

“Ever since I got in this business back in 1991, started out as that telemarketer, I loved how our company started to grow.”

That passion eventually led him to a leadership role where he now focuses on managing, developing, and expanding the team as Benchmark’s portfolio continues to evolve.

What excites him most isn’t simply growth. It’s authenticity.

“I love that when you go to one of our properties, that you’re going to something that’s very authentic. You know what city you’re going into.”

That emphasis on authentic destination experiences reflects a growing trend across the meetings industry. Attendees increasingly want events that feel connected to the local culture rather than interchangeable from one city to the next.

Paulie sees that connection as one of Benchmark’s greatest strengths.

And when the workday ends? Sports take center stage.

Living in Phoenix, Arizona, Paulie and his wife have built a community that stretches far beyond their backyard.

“We host every major sporting event in our backyard.”

From Sunday football gatherings to March Madness celebrations, neighbors who arrived from different cities and states have become lifelong friends.

“It’s just been a fantastic community to be in.”

That sense of community mirrors the culture he strives to build within his team—one grounded in connection, shared experiences, and lasting relationships.

The Common Thread: People First, Always

Spend a few minutes with the Benchmark Global Sales Team, and a pattern emerges.

Yes, they represent outstanding destinations. Yes, they help clients navigate venue selection and event planning decisions.

But what truly sets them apart is their commitment to relationships.

Whether it’s JMac introducing planners to new possibilities, MJ transforming clients into friends, Patti helping organizations bring their vision to life, or Paulie fostering authentic connections through leadership, each team member shares a common belief: hospitality begins with people.

That’s why they’re more than sales professionals.

They’re trusted advisors, storytellers, connectors, and advocates for experiences that leave a lasting impact.

And in an industry built on bringing people together, that’s exactly what makes all the difference.

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