Staff Directory
Meet the RAM team!
Marshall Weston
President & CEO
"More than half of all Americans worked in a restaurant at some point in their career, and I'm no different. Starting as a busser and working my way up to GM, I eventually found my way to RAM in 2002 and was promoted to President & CEO in 2010. The skills I learned in restaurants are what I use every day. When you can’t find me, I’m backpacking, so you’re not supposed to find me."
Melvin Thompson
Senior VP, Government Affairs & Public Policy
Melvin has been working tirelessly in the halls of the Maryland General Assembly and at the local government level for over 25 years, educating lawmakers about the restaurant industry and advocating the Association’s positions on behalf of our members. He prides himself on being the most trusted resource for restaurants regarding government regulations.
Elisa Mancia-Hemgen
Director of Finance
For Elisa, the kitchen was always the heart of the home—full of conversation, decisions, and great food. That early passion made joining RAM a natural fit. With years of accounting experience, Elisa keeps things organized and running smoothly. Outside of work, she loves cooking, making jewelry, and catching live music—anything creative and hands-on.
“Without Love in a dream, it’ll never come true.”
Olivia Aberdeen
Director of Programs & Education
Olivia has had a passion for food since a young age. Seeing her mom in the kitchen fueled her excitement, which led her to take the ProStart program at Wilde Lake High School. She then attended Johnson and Wales University and received two degrees in Baking and Pastry and Food Service Management. After years in the industry, Olivia jumped into education with the help of her old high school educators, where she taught ProStart. She completed her Master's at the American College of Education and decided to take her skills behind the scenes. These days, if she’s not at work, she’s creating delicious desserts for her own baking business or traveling.
Fanny Ferman
Training Coordinator for ServSafe & RAM Classes
Fanny is a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. She has two teen sons who drive her crazy, but she can’t live without them. Her hobbies outside work include watching crime documentaries and reality TV. Naturally a self-proclaimed homebody, Fanny enjoys get-togethers and having a good time with family and friends. She is bilingual and fluent in both English and Spanish.
Brendan Mahoney
Govt. Affairs & Local Grassroots Manager
Before joining RAM in 2022, Brendan served as an aide to the Harford County Executive and worked for various State and Local government officials. As a proud member of RAM's Government Affairs team, he is enthusiastic about leveraging his passion for local Public Policy to advocate for the restaurant industry. Beyond his professional life, Brendan enjoys golfing, traveling, and exploring diverse cuisines.
Jess Jeffcott
Member Services Manager
Before joining RAM, Jess spent 20 years in the food and beverage industry, including many years in restaurant operations and management. She also served on the Board of Directors for the Mile High Chapter of the Colorado Restaurant Association, where she advocated for hospitality professionals and helped strengthen industry connections. As RAM’s Membership Services Manager, Jess is excited to support members, better understand their needs, and connect them with valuable resources and opportunities.
Outside of work, Jess enjoys biking around Maryland, experimenting with pottery and new recipes in the kitchen, and discovering new local spots to eat and drink.
We're available Monday through Friday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Give us a call at (410) 290-6800.
Restaurant Association of Maryland
Marshall Weston, Jr.
RAM & RAMEF President & CEO - x1013
Melvin Thompson
Senior VP, Government Affairs & Public Policy - x1007
Elisa Mancia
Director of Finance - x1025
Jess Jeffcott
Membership Services Manager - x1020
Brendan Mahoney
Government Affairs and Local Grassroots Manager - x1021
Restaurant Association of Maryland Education Foundation
Olivia Aberdeen
Director of Programs & Education - x1030
Fanny Ferman
Training Coordinator- x1016