OUR TEAM

We bring our best thinking, resources and skills to each project’s unique needs.
As a highly capable women-owned and operated boutique agency, our deep bench of talent includes leading experts in all areas of communication, production and marketing.
You can expect creativity, confidence and care in every interaction with us because,
we wouldn’t have it any other way.

ANGELA KABBES
Principal

Angela founded TANDEM after over twenty years in the communications industry, spearheading large-scale Pharma startups as well as serving the communications and events needs of established global leaders. She has experience across a broad range of industries, most prominently healthcare, pharmaceuticals, biotech, and technology.

A former marketer herself, Angela will never quit perfecting the art of how to talk to audiences because she knows what’s on the line: your success.

Still not sure if Angela gets communication? Her monthly phone bill says otherwise.

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MARIA KARAS
Executive VP, Client Engagement

Before joining the TANDEM crew, Maria enjoyed a 20-year career in pharmaceutical sales, analytics and marketing, where she led global, cross-functional teams in the commercial development and marketing of new and in-line brands. Maria’s unique mix of strategic and creative thinking allows her to address every stakeholder’s needs.

Travel is a passion for Maria and her passport has bruises from all the stamps to prove it. From her globe-trotting event marketing and personal travels, Maria has acquired the world’s largest collection of hotel shampoos. And yes, airport employees know her by name.

Let's talk travel

TARYN O'MEARA
Executive Producer

Oh me! Oh my! O’Meara!
There’s producers who cluck and worry and say: “NO! That can’t be done!” And then there’s Taryn.

She specializes in the Impossible. She’s the warrior, the workhorse and the wisdom behind the WOW. And where other agencies drop the ball, she’s juggling it…behind her back…while her standard poodle – Stevie Lilith Nicks – tries to nip at it.
Taryn was born in San Diego, but her career was born in the Big Apple. Working under the Executive Producer of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, Taryn managed 80+ clients year-round. In fact, you might’ve heard of some: Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs and Anna Wintour. Yes, THE Anna Wintour. Fun fact: the Devil only wears Prada because Taryn suggested it 😉

Talk about a woman whose engine runs on curiosity, culture and courage! From the taco food scene…to high-end fashion racks…to exotic ocean floors…there’s no hunt too elusive! Not for Taryn…Executive Producer/Bon Vivant/Fashionista/Snorkeler!

After more than a decade of launching new fashion trends, cruise ships and biotech therapies, Taryn just gets it, proudly embracing the cool confidence of Project Runway star – Tim Gunn. As he once told her backstage: “Make it work!” Taryn has – and then some!

LET'S BUILD SOMETHING TOGETHER

CHRISTY KYHL
Account Executive

Christy draws upon her expertise in event planning, communication, and media to provide her clients with exceptional account service in her role as Account Executive. She brings a wealth of diverse experience to the TANDEM Crew, having worked in the non-profit, retail, management consulting, and political sectors. Christy is solution-oriented and focused on delivering results for her clients, always looking to prove her motto: if there’s a will, there’s a way.

Christy is a Chicago “city” girl to her bones. She enjoys all of the perks that come with living in a large metropolis area like fantastic food, theater, sporting events and music. The lively hustle and bustle of the Windy City keeps her active. She enjoys all sporting events and friendly competitive exercise and you can often find her joining the next area race up the Aon Tower (83 Flights) or the lakefront Turkey Trot with her family. As the oldest of 5 brothers and the mother of 4, she is always on the go and always ready to join (win) a March Madness pool or quote any Star Wars movie. But don’t worry, she only uses the Force when absolutely necessary…

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EMILY BURKHOLDER
Chief of Staff

Look out, World! Emily is about to add some fizz to the TANDEM biz! A New York Fashion Week alum, she’s developed quite an eye for flawless execution over the past decade and a half. (There’s a reason she’s a personal shopper for her friends and family!)

From event planning and project management to HR and learning & development…Emily’s proven to be a high-energy (yet humble) trendsetter. In fact, she’s walked the walk everywhere from Nordstrom to the tech world to interior design. One thing we know: her agility and diverse skillset never goes out of style.

Beyond boardrooms and ballrooms, she’s a yogi, a foodie, and a canine-cuddler to her mini Aussie-doodle – Frankie. Chicago is her playground, but she’s ready to take on the world. With Emily, you can’t help but wonder – where will she go NEXT?