Executive Team

Sam Kaufman, Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Sam Kaufman, Founder & Chief Executive Officer
He kick-started the idea for Regatta over 15 years ago. As a former talent agent, producer, and manager for musical artists, he recognized the opportunity to apply the talent agent model to build brand partnerships. He has since procured a team of 'agents' with diverse marketing and communications backgrounds - each bringing a different expertise to the table but collectively representing the whole marketing pie. He has been the lead on campaigns and promotions for brands such as Audi, Bloomingdale's, Abbott Nutrition and Continental Airlines. Sam has been racing sailboats since he was five and has been known to spend his weekends teaching Wall Streeters to sail in lower Manhattan.
Chris Griggs, Chief Strategy Officer
Chris is one of the brains behind Regatta. He serves as the chief strategist for the agency analyzing new ways for brands to partner and measuring the cost effectiveness of programs. Chris has been with Regatta since it’s infancy and thus has become an expert on partnership marketing. Prior to joining Regatta, he was an Ad Man, working on national and promotional campaigns for brands like Wendy's, P&G, Coca-Cola and The US Military at agencies big and small. Chris’ experience also extends all channels of integrated communications including account planning, direct mail, social and interactive media, and public relations which makes him Regatta’s lead client relations director too. In his spare time, he makes people laugh at some of New York City's top comedy clubs and improv theaters. Chris enjoys hearing a good sailing story but generally limits his aquatic activity to fishing on the embankment.


Torey Powers, Strategic Account Manager
Torey is our client connoisseur and relationship manager. Using her strategy skills and love for creativity, she helps to create big ideas and partnership collaborations for our clients in all different areas of retail. Before joining the Regatta team, Torey worked at several ad agencies- with a focus on strategy in healthcare. She is an SEC football fan from her time attending The University of South Carolina and loves to travel.
Lindsey Rose, Partner Development Manager
Lindsey is the newest addition to the Regatta team. As our Partnership Manager, she works to strengthen Regatta’s network and expand opportunities for our clients. Lindsey has a passion for communication and knack for building meaningful connections to others. With her background in sales development, she is excited to bring new ideas and perspective to how we approach new clients. In her free time she likes to go to concerts with friends, read and most importantly love on her Maltese pup Archie!


Cassandra Harris, Chief Communications Officer
She started her career in journalism and then migrated into public relations and brand marketing. Before Regatta, she was a Vice President at Golin/Harris and spent time in the music business. She's worked with VISA, IBM, dressbarn, Sony, Coors, Nintendo and a roster of famous musicians. She's also an elected legislative representative in her town of Darien, CT and serves on the Board of Directors for her local YWCA. Cassandra enjoys entertaining day cruises and fishing on the open water - so long as the sea is calm, there are no clouds in the sky and the bait is tantalizing.
Kei Inaba, Chief of Staff
As Chief of Staff, Kei serves as confidante and advisor to Regatta's CEO, working closely with him to expand the team's resources and find new ways to market the agency and its clients. She is especially adept at solving problems, navigating any conflicts, and channeling the ideas and energy of other members of the executive team. Originally from Tokyo, Kei applies her cross-cultural experience to manage, train and build relationships within Regatta’s diverse community. Prior to joining Regatta, she consulted for Japanese client companies to expand their business internationally. Kei spends her weekends visiting restaurants, bars, and sporting events in New York City and, when time permits, enjoys exploring other cities and remote regions all over the world.


Sidney, Chief Barketing Officer
He joined the Regatta Crew 6 years ago, taking over the key position of company morale officer. Still a trainee, Sidney has experience chewing, fetching and barking and, in his primary role, encouraging the Regatta principal to walk to work and back each day. He plays an increasingly important role with HR, client relations and ensuring that staff members take adequate breaks throughout the day so they can avoid common office injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome. He manages the recycling program, always quick to shred any of the more sensitive documents, and heads up office security. Sidney enjoys offshore sailing with the wind at his back and a galley that’s well stocked with bacon treats.