About Us

---

 Join Kansas City B2B for an exclusive conversation with the leaders who helped bring one of the world's largest sporting events to our city. From economic development and global marketing to partnerships, hospitality, volunteer operations, and public perception, we'll go behind the scenes to explore what it really took to deliver the World Cup and what Kansas City gained because of it. 

Jonathan KnechtJonathan Knecht

SVP, Marketing + Creative | Kansas City Area Development Council

Jonathan has helped shape how the world sees Kansas City for more than two decades. At KCADC, he has helped attract $7.7 billion in capital investment and more than 16,000 jobs while leading the region's branding efforts around the iconic KC Heart campaign and promoting Kansas City as a destination for business and talent. 

Mike Goff

Chief Commercial Officer | KC2026

Mike leads the commercial strategy and partnerships for Kansas City's FIFA World Cup Host Committee. Throughout his career, he has helped launch major national sporting initiatives, negotiated landmark partnerships, and advised some of the country's most recognized brands and organizations. 

Lori Thomas

Director, Volunteer Operations & Workforce | KC2026

Lori oversees one of the largest volunteer initiatives in Kansas City's history, leading the recruitment, training, and deployment of more than 3,500 volunteers supporting the FIFA World Cup while managing workforce operations for KC2026. 

Lee Page

President | Page Communications

One of Kansas City's most connected public relations professionals, Lee has spent years helping brands, restaurants, developments, and organizations build visibility through media, social strategy, influencer partnerships, and community engagement.