The KONTEK Leadership Team
Marques Manning, CTS-D, CTS-I — President
Marques joined KONTEK Systems in 2017 as the Director, UX Design & Technology prior to becoming the Managing Director in 2020 and President in 2022. Before joining KONTEK, he spent 14 years in the production industry with a focus on live events for corporate clients. During this time he held a variety of roles which have provided a wide range of experience in operating small businesses, in addition to co-founding two successful production companies. Marques is a native of Durham, born and living in the area through high school before attending North Carolina A&T State University, where he received his degree in Electronic Engineering Technology.
Pete Rehm, CTS-I — Director, Operations
Since 2008, when Pete joined the KONTEK team, he has worn many different hats including roles in install, service, management and sales, before settling in as Director, Operations beginning in 2017. While technology flows through Pete’s veins, you are equally likely to run into Pete on a trail out in the wilderness as you are to find him learning about the newest technology trends in the market. Pete is a born-and-raised NC Triangle native before going on to graduate from UNC-Chapel Hill with a BA in Communication Studies and Media Production.
Hilary French — Director, HR
Hilary joined KONTEK in 2017 with more than 20 years experience in human resources. Since joining KONTEK, Hilary has worked with the owners to develop a leadership team that can move KONTEK into the future. Prior to joining KONTEK, she worked as an in-house compensation and benefits professional for a global company and prior to that as a consultant.
Mike Werner, CTS-D, CTS-I — Director, UX Design & Technology
Mike joined KONTEK as a Project Manager in 2017, and since then has moved into the role of Director of the Design Team. He spent years in the sales, construction, and IT industries with his most recent experience as an electrician for a local NC company before making the change to A/V. Mike graduated with a degree in Information & Computer Technology and Construction Management from East Carolina University. Although native to NC, he has lived throughout the Midwest and along the East Coast before returning and eventually settling down in Garner where he and his wife spend most of their time chasing around their first toddler and two dogs.
Mike Wenhart — Director, Account Team
Mike brings almost 25 years in the professional A/V industry designing and selling integrated systems. Prior to joining for a profession, Mike has also been involved with A/V as a hobby since his college days. As a proud NC State graduate, Mike traveled with the women’s basketball team and men’s baseball team for 3 years broadcasting games on the radio. Mike has also done voice and production work for Capitol Sports radio and the NC High School Football Scoreboard. Mike brings a unique user experience as well, as he has been the sound operator in his churches dating back to the 90’s — so he truly understands the needs and experiences of those needing A/V in their spaces. While he was born in Ohio, Mike has been in Raleigh most of his life and continues to call NC home.
Joe Elliott — Chief Financial Officer
Joe joined KONTEK as Chief Financial Officer in 2021. Prior to KONTEK, he spent 11 years with ExxonMobil’s Treasurer’s department, most recently as Operations Manager for Trading Risk Management. He has also held roles in credit management, corporate strategy, M&A, and technical sales. After returning to Durham for the 4th time in 2018, Joe and his family (wife and two kids) are here to stay. Joe graduated from Duke University with degrees in Mechanical Engineering, Psychology, and a Master of Business Administration.
