After completing a 3-year assignment in Japan with the JET Programme in 2004, Gil Cardon moved on to live and work in New York City to explore new opportunities. Building upon his experience in sales, marketing, research, and operations management across numerous industries (restaurants, entertainment, advertising, broadcasting, travel, education, pharmaceuticals, and telecommunications), he decided to launch RIFFSLINGER consulting agency in 2010.

Soon after the launch, Gil received an invitation to do contract work for the Japan National Tourism Organization, Convention Bureau division. He served as the principal agent for advancing Japan as a premier incentive travel and conventions destination to the North American market. Gil was also commissioned for other government contract work, including conducting the research project which established the vehicle license plate commemoration program for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Several months after accomplishing the major milestone of producing two live music shows for the CBGB Music & Film Festival in New York, Gil moved to Portland, Oregon to explore new opportunities once again. While in Portland he expanded his repertoire further by doing contract work for nonprofit organizations. He became involved with a local community radio station – KBOO FM – as an event producer, board director, and briefly as station manager.

Currently, Gil is working with entrepreneurs and organizations across all industries to help develop and grow their businesses. He also continues to partner with government agencies and regional stakeholders to improve the economic landscape of dynamic communities. Below are some examples of various business and community revitalization projects that RIFFSLINGER has developed and co-produced through collaborative partnerships.