Meet Our Leadership
Our team of dedicated and visionary leaders drive our company forward.
At AccessFares, we believe that strong leadership is the cornerstone of our success.
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Mark Lowery
Chief Executive Officer
Mark Lowery
Meet Mark Lowery, Chief Executive Officer and founding managing partner of AccessFares. Motivated by a passion for traveling, Mark began his career in the industry in 1990, working as a travel agent. This experience exposed him to the everyday challenges that travel agents face, inspiring him to find solutions to streamline the process. He quickly established his own agency, which evolved into what we now know as AccessFares. Mark studied finance at the University of Arkansas, which laid the foundation for his successful entrepreneurial journey. Outside the office, he is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys mountain biking, hiking, and running.
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John George
Chief Commercial Officer
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John George
With 25 years of experience in airfare, John George has established himself as a prominent leader in the travel industry. After beginning his career in private equity at the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce in Dallas. In 1999 John transitioned himself into the travel sector to explore new challenges. As a founding member of AccessFares, he was instrumental in merging multiple travel businesses, creating the innovative platform it is today. In his role as Chief Commercial Officer, John’s strategic vision and commercial expertise have driven AccessFares' growth, shaping the company into a leader in exclusive airfare access. John holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from St. Edward’s University and a Master of International Business from Alliant International University. A passionate traveler and family man, John brings a personal love for travel into his professional work, consistently pushing the industry forward with his leadership and innovation.
Mark Lowery
Managing Partner,
Chief Executive Officer
Meet Mark Lowery, Chief Executive Officer and founding managing partner of AccessFares. Motivated by a passion for traveling, Mark began his career in the industry in 1990, working as a travel agent. This experience exposed him to the everyday challenges that travel agents face, inspiring him to find solutions to streamline the process. He quickly established his own agency, which evolved into what we now know as AccessFares. Mark studied finance at the University of Arkansas, which laid the foundation for his successful entrepreneurial journey. Outside the office, he is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys mountain biking, hiking, and running.
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John George
Managing Partner,
Chief Commercial Officer
With 25 years of experience in airfare, John George has established himself as a prominent leader in the travel industry. After beginning his career in private equity at the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce in Dallas. In 1999 John transitioned himself into the travel sector to explore new challenges. As a founding member of AccessFares, he was instrumental in merging multiple travel businesses, creating the innovative platform it is today. In his role as Chief Commercial Officer, John’s strategic vision and commercial expertise have driven AccessFares' growth, shaping the company into a leader in exclusive airfare access. John holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from St. Edward’s University and a Master of International Business from Alliant International University. A passionate traveler and family man, John brings a personal love for travel into his professional work, consistently pushing the industry forward with his leadership and innovation.
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Sharon
Taoushiani
Director of Servicing
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Sharon Taoushiani
Sharon is a dedicated professional with a strong background in travel management and customer service, holding multiple certifications in both areas. With years of experience as an Operations Manager, Sharon has honed her skills in streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency within organizations. Her expertise in managing large teams and complex projects led her to the role of Director of Servicing, where she oversees client relations and service delivery. Sharon’s commitment to excellence and her ability to foster strong customer relationships make her an invaluable leader in her field, consistently driving success and satisfaction for her clients and team.
Manisha Karmacharya
Director of HR &
Special Projects
Manisha Karmacharya
Born in Kathmandu, Nepal, Manisha Karmacharya moved to the USA in 2004 and currently resides in the DFW, TX area. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from Kathmandu, Nepal, and now serves as the Director of HR / Special Projects, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to her role. Manisha is a devoted mother to two children—a son in 2nd grade and a teenage daughter who is a junior in high school. Her husband, a talented chef, complements her love for exploring new cuisines and savoring spicy foods. Manisha's love for the mountains and nature is a testament to her adventurous spirit. Driven by the belief that honesty and hard work are keys to success, her mission is to lead with integrity and dedication in all her endeavors.
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Mike Bates
Chief Financial Officer
Mike is a seasoned finance professional with a CPA license and extensive experience in financial leadership. He earned his degree from the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) and quickly rose through the ranks in the corporate world. His strategic vision and expertise in financial management led to his current role as Chief Financial Officer, where he oversees financial operations and drives growth initiatives. Mike is committed to leveraging his background to ensure financial stability and long-term success for AccessFares.
Manisha Karmacharya
Director of HR &
Special Projects
Born in Kathmandu, Nepal, Manisha Karmacharya moved to the USA in 2004 and currently resides in the DFW, TX area. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from Kathmandu, Nepal, and now serves as the Director of HR / Special Projects, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to her role. Manisha is a devoted mother to two children—a son in 2nd grade and a teenage daughter who is a junior in high school. Her husband, a talented chef, complements her love for exploring new cuisines and savoring spicy foods. Manisha's love for the mountains and nature is a testament to her adventurous spirit. Driven by the belief that honesty and hard work are keys to success, her mission is to lead with integrity and dedication in all her endeavors.
Rebecca Bloom
Director of Operations
Rebecca Bloom
Rebecca’s travel career began back in 1990 in Nebraska when she enrolled in travel school, training on Sabre, Apollo, System One, and Pars. She began as a reservations agent which led her to her current position as Director of Operations with over 30 years of experience in the corporate travel industry. She is a detailed and task-oriented leader with proven abilities in customer service, international fare structure and problem solving. I am married with three sons, one daughter and one grandson. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, scuba diving, snorkeling, walking, hiking, biking, reading and relaxing at the beach.
Essie Muns
Director of Accounting
Essie Muns
Essie is a dynamic professional with a strong academic foundation, holding both bachelor's and master's degrees from Southwestern Oklahoma State University. She began her career as a corporate travel agent, where her organizational skills and attention to detail quickly became apparent. Essie's passion for finance and dedication to excellence led her to transition into accounting, where she currently serves as the Director of Accounting. In this role, she oversees financial operations and ensures accuracy in reporting.
Rebecca Bloom
Director of Operations
Rebecca’s travel career began back in 1990 in Nebraska when she enrolled in travel school, training on Sabre, Apollo, System One, and Pars. She began as a reservations agent which led her to her current position as Director of Operations with over 30 years of experience in the corporate travel industry. She is a detailed and task-oriented leader with proven abilities in customer service, international fare structure and problem solving. I am married with three sons, one daughter and one grandson. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, scuba diving, snorkeling, walking, hiking, biking, reading and relaxing at the beach.
Essie Muns
Director of Accounting
Essie is a dynamic professional with a strong academic foundation, holding both bachelor's and master's degrees from Southwestern Oklahoma State University. She began her career as a corporate travel agent, where her organizational skills and attention to detail quickly became apparent. Essie's passion for finance and dedication to excellence led her to transition into accounting, where she currently serves as the Director of Accounting. In this role, she oversees financial operations and ensures accuracy in reporting.
Shane Chapman
Director of Partnerships for the Americas
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Shane Chapman
Shane Chapman brings a wealth of experience in the travel industry to his role as Director of Partnerships for the Americas at AccessFares. With a background that spans both the airline and agency sectors, Shane is responsible for cultivating and maintaining client and vendor partnerships, as well as overseeing implementation and training processes. Prior to joining AccessFares, Shane served as the SVP of Airline Partner Relations at Ovation Travel Group, an AMEX GBT company. Shane has lived in 14 cities across the US and has been to 47 states. He has been to 6 of the 7 continents and visited 49 countries. He also loves to hike and bike in his desert backyard and enjoys visiting National Parks in his downtime.
Brad La Nasa
Global Director
of Partnerships
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Brad La Nasa
Brad is a seasoned professional in the travel industry with over 25 years of experience, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. He graduated from the University of Minnesota, where he laid the foundation for his successful career. Brad has held various key positions throughout his journey, with a focus on building and nurturing strategic relationships. He serves as the Global Director of Partnerships, where he leverages his extensive industry experience to forge and maintain partnerships that drive business growth. Brad's leadership and deep understanding of the travel industry make him a pivotal figure in creating lasting, impactful collaborations. Brad is based in Valencia, Spain with his wife and two teen girls. An avid padel player, in his free time, you'll find him in his local club.
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Shane Chapman
Director of Partnerships
for the Americas
Shane Chapman brings a wealth of experience in the travel industry to his role as Director of Partnerships for the Americas at AccessFares. With a background that spans both the airline and agency sectors, Shane is responsible for cultivating and maintaining client and vendor partnerships, as well as overseeing implementation and training processes. As a key member of the executive team, Shane provides strategic guidance and solutions for operational challenges related to airline partners, client servicing, accounting, and technology. Prior to joining AccessFares, Shane served as the SVP of Airline Partner Relations at Ovation Travel Group, an AMEX GBT company.
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Brad La Nasa
Global Director of Partnerships
Brad is a seasoned professional in the travel industry with over 25 years of experience, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. He graduated from the University of Minnesota, where he laid the foundation for his successful career. Brad has held various key positions throughout his journey, with a focus on building and nurturing strategic relationships. He serves as the Global Director of Partnerships, where he leverages his extensive industry experience to forge and maintain partnerships that drive business growth. Brad's leadership and deep understanding of the travel industry make him a pivotal figure in creating lasting, impactful collaborations. Brad is based in Valencia, Spain with his wife and two teen girls. An avid padel player, in his free time, you'll find him in his local club.
Lara Brizendine
Director of
Premium Travel Advisors
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Lara Brizendine
Lara brings over 20 years of experience in the travel industry and a passion for helping clients create extraordinary journeys. With a background in travel and many years of overseas experience, she combines her personal love of exploration with professional expertise to lead her team of dedicated travel advisors. Originally from New Zealand, Lara has a deep appreciation for adventure and cultural experiences. She is known for her strategic approach to hiring and training agents, fostering a motivated and high-performing reservation team. Outside of work, Lara enjoys riding motorcycles and spending time with her two big fur babies. Her adventurous spirit and dedication to her team make her a natural leader and an inspiring force within the premium travel sector.
Melody Griffith
Director of
Company Culture
Melody Griffith
Inspired by her love for people, Melody’s entire career has always been people oriented. Socially active in college, she earned her master’s degree and naturally moved to working at the university. Next, she began working with corporate suites, leading the Arkansas Hospitality Association, Lodging Board and then moved on to HR. Eventually, Melody started her career at AccessFares in the role of HR then evolved into Director of Company Culture. The opportunity to build a community of people that share more than just a workplace is always exciting for Melody. Her goal is to bring out the best in every individual and give that person the support to grow and stretch their boundaries.
Richard Lyman
Director of Technology
Richard is an accomplished IT professional with a bachelor's degree from Florida Atlantic University. With a strong technical foundation, he has built a successful career in IT management, progressing from IT Manager to Director roles. Richard is known for his ability to lead teams in implementing innovative technology solutions that drive organizational efficiency and growth. His expertise is further enhanced by his certification from the Scrum Alliance.
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Sharon Taoushiani
Director of Servicing
Sharon is a dedicated professional with a strong background in travel management and customer service, holding multiple certifications in both areas. With years of experience as an Operations Manager, Sharon has honed her skills in streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency within organizations. Her expertise in managing large teams and complex projects led her to the role of Director of Servicing, where she oversees client relations and service delivery. Sharon’s commitment to excellence and her ability to foster strong customer relationships make her an invaluable leader in her field, consistently driving success and satisfaction for her clients and team.
Sharon
Taoushiani
Director of Servicing
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Sharon Taoushiani
Sharon is a dedicated professional with a strong background in travel management and customer service, holding multiple certifications in both areas. With years of experience as an Operations Manager, Sharon has honed her skills in streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency within organizations. Her expertise in managing large teams and complex projects led her to the role of Director of Servicing, where she oversees client relations and service delivery. Sharon’s commitment to excellence and her ability to foster strong customer relationships make her an invaluable leader in her field, consistently driving success and satisfaction for her clients and team.
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Lara Brizendine
Director of Premium
Travel Advisors
Lara brings over 20 years of experience in the travel industry and a passion for helping clients create extraordinary journeys. With a background in travel and many years of overseas experience, she combines her personal love of exploration with professional expertise to lead her team of dedicated travel advisors. Originally from New Zealand, Lara has a deep appreciation for adventure and cultural experiences. She is known for her strategic approach to hiring and training agents, fostering a motivated and high-performing reservation team. Outside of work, Lara enjoys riding motorcycles and spending time with her two big fur babies. Her adventurous spirit and dedication to her team make her a natural leader and an inspiring force within the premium travel sector.
Richard Lyman
Director of Technology
Richard Lyman
Richard is an accomplished IT professional with a bachelor's degree from Florida Atlantic University. With a strong technical foundation, he has built a successful career in IT management, progressing from IT Manager to Director roles. Richard is known for his ability to lead teams in implementing innovative technology solutions that drive organizational efficiency and growth. His expertise is further enhanced by his certification from the Scrum Alliance.
Melody Griffith
Director of
Company Culture
Inspired by her love for people, Melody’s entire career has always been people oriented. Socially active in college, she earned her master’s degree and naturally moved to working at the university. Next, she began working with corporate suites, leading the Arkansas Hospitality Association, Lodging Board and then moved on to HR. Eventually, Melody started her career at AccessFares in the role of HR then evolved into Director of Company Culture. The opportunity to build a community of people that share more than just a workplace is always exciting for Melody. Her goal is to bring out the best in every individual and give that person the support to grow and stretch their boundaries.
Supporting you from every corner of the globe.
Service That Goes Beyond Borders
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HQ Office
Dallas, Texas
San Francisco, CA
Palm Springs, CA
Colorado Springs, CO
Little Rock, AR
Orlando, FL
Valencia, Spain
Rome, Italy
Montevideo, Uruguay
Capetown, South Africa
Pune, India
Bangalore, India
New Delhi, India
Manila, Philipines
VIC, Australia
Auckland, New Zealand