Executive Biography

Rebecca Edelman: Transformational Leader Bridging Finance, Education, and Workforce Innovation

Rebecca Edelman is a visionary executive and founder with over 20 years of leadership experience at the intersection of finance, education, and workforce development. As CEO of Caper Associates, she pioneers innovative programs that equip young people and professionals with practical skills for career and civic success. Known for her strategic mindset and operational expertise, Rebecca has driven transformative change in global financial institutions and nonprofit education settings alike, all while championing mission-driven initiatives that create lasting impact.

Cyril Morel | Principal & Chief Operating Officer | Real Estate Developer | Financial Strategist | Global Operations Leader

Cyril Morel is an accomplished executive whose career spans over 15 years at the intersection of real estate development, financial strategy, and global operations. As Principal and COO of Synapse Development, he has led over $250 million in assets under management, championing energy-efficient projects and pioneering technology-integrated real estate models. Known for his disciplined leadership and strategic decision-making, Cyril has delivered transformative outcomes across multiple sectors—from Passive House-certified multifamily developments in New York to LEED-certified hospitality projects in San Francisco. With a foundation built at the United Nations and refined through ventures in finance and proptech, he brings a rare blend of operational precision, global awareness, and impact-driven vision to every opportunity he pursues.

Raymond (Ray) Gonzales: Empowering People, Transforming Organizations, and Guiding Leaders to Unlock their Greatest Potential.

I'm proud to share my professional biography, highlighting the journey that has taken me across industries, continents, and transformational leadership experiences. From shaping HR strategy in Fortune 10 companies to coaching future leaders and serving on mission-driven boards, each step has been about creating impact and empowering others.

Tom DeMarino: Achieving Extraordinary Results with Ordinary People

After more than five decades in aerospace, leadership, and innovation—including record-setting unmanned aircraft achievements and mission command in active combat zones—I'm excited to share a comprehensive look at my journey and experiences. From the Navy to the private sector, I've always believed in achieving extraordinary results with ordinary people. Here is my biography.

Bridget Lamont: Driving Brand Growth and Sales Innovation Across the Wine, Spirits, and Hospitality Industries

Bridget Lamont is a dynamic sales and trade marketing executive with nearly two decades of experience driving growth and brand excellence in the wine, spirits, and retail industries. With a unique blend of strategic insight and operational know-how, she has successfully led national marketing campaigns, built new business territories from the ground up, and collaborated with top-tier partners across North America and Europe. Known for her hands-on leadership and results-oriented mindset, Bridget thrives in fast-paced environments where creativity, data, and execution come together to shape impactful consumer experiences.

Chris Knierim | Principal | Training & Project Management | Board Member | Leadership Strategist

Chris Knierim is a seasoned executive and board advisor with over two decades of experience driving impactful training, leadership development, and operational transformation across manufacturing, medical device, and technology sectors. Known for aligning strategic business goals with scalable learning systems, Chris blends technical expertise with a people-first mindset—bringing clarity, integrity, and humor to every challenge he tackles.

Jerry Bautista, PhD | Retired VP & General Manager, Intel Corporation | Startup Advisor | Innovation & Technology Strategist

Dr. Jerry Bautista is a retired Intel Vice President and General Manager with over 40 years of experience leading innovation at the intersection of advanced technology and business strategy. A Stanford and Princeton-trained chemical engineer, Jerry has driven major advancements in semiconductors, AR/VR, and wearables, launching over a dozen products and integrating acquisitions valued at over $700 million. Known for his data-driven decision-making, cross-functional leadership, and commitment to mentoring startups, Jerry now serves as an advisor and accelerator lead, helping emerging ventures scale with purpose and precision.

Paul Baribault: Transformational Executive Driving Enterprise Growth and Innovation, Entertainment Impact, and Global Conservation

I’m a mission-driven executive passionate about transforming organizations through purpose, innovation, and storytelling. Over the past two decades, I’ve had the privilege of leading global conservation efforts as President & CEO of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and driving award-winning brand campaigns at The Walt Disney Studios. Whether building teams, securing international partnerships, or launching major initiatives, I’m inspired by the power of strategy and communication to create lasting impact.

Michael Daddona: Transformational Hospitality Executive Driving Operational Excellence and Profit Growth

Michael Daddona is a seasoned hospitality executive with over 35 years of proven leadership in operations, project management, and multi-unit oversight. Renowned for his ability to drive revenue growth, reduce costs, and build high-performing teams, he has successfully led large hotel portfolios, including a 200-property division across 21 states. With a sharp financial acumen and a talent for strategic execution, Michael has consistently delivered exceptional results in RevPAR, EBITDA, guest satisfaction, and employee engagement. His track record includes award-winning service, successful franchising transitions, and operational turnarounds, all underscored by his commitment to excellence, innovation, and team development.

Michael Weiner: Transformative Leader in Pediatric Oncology and Champion for Childhood Cancer Research

I’m a physician, author, and advocate with over four decades of experience in pediatric oncology, academic medicine, and nonprofit leadership. For the majority of my career, I served at Columbia University Medical Center, where I led one of the nation’s top pediatric hematology-oncology programs and mentored a generation of physician-scientists. I’m proud to have founded the Hope & Heroes Children’s Cancer Fund, which has raised over \$100 million to support children and families facing cancer. Today, I remain active as a writer and fundraiser, committed to advancing care, research, and hope for the next generation.

Orien Bedwell: Guiding Brands Toward Growth with Purpose and Integrity

After more than 30 years leading in the food and CPG industry, I’m proud to share a deeper look into my professional journey and values. From building brands rooted in sustainability to supporting teams and producers through strategic growth, I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the best in the business. Here is my biography.

Vijay Sardeshpande: Vice President of Continuous Improvement and Business Transformation

Vijay Sardeshpande is a results-driven transformation leader with over two decades of experience guiding organizations through operational turnarounds, cost-saving initiatives, and large-scale process improvements. With a proven track record across aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and IT sectors, he specializes in lean methodologies, strategic execution, and cross-functional alignment. Known for his disciplined leadership style and commitment to continuous improvement, Vijay helps companies unlock efficiency, drive sustainable growth, and build high-performing teams prepared for the future.

Robert Pliska: Turning Vision Into Value; With Integrity, Insight, and Impact

I’m proud to share my updated executive biography, reflecting over 50 years of experience in commercial real estate, finance, and leadership. From serving as a CPA with PwC to leading multimillion-dollar transactions across the globe, my journey has been guided by a simple principle: Just do it!

Francis (Frank) Wiercinski | Strategic Military Leader | Global Operations Expert | Defense and Crisis Management Specialist

Francis (Frank) Wiercinski is a seasoned strategic leader with over 45 years of global experience in military command and executive defense roles. A retired U.S. Army General, Frank has led operations across the Indo-Pacific, advised on national defense policy, and guided international business development for top defense contractors. Renowned for his character, strategic acumen, and multilingual communication skills, he brings deep operational insight, crisis leadership, and global engagement expertise to organizations seeking growth, stability, and transformative leadership.

Daniel Kunst | Strategic Visionary in MedTech | Global Sales Leader | Guiding Growth and Governance

Daniel Kunst is a retired healthcare executive with over four decades of global leadership experience in sales, marketing, and supply chain operations. Known for his strategic insight and steady hand during organizational transitions, Daniel has guided multiple companies—public and private—through the complex evolution from founder-led to professionally managed structures. With a background in medical device manufacturing and a career marked by international scope and commercial success, he now seeks to contribute his expertise at the board level, offering a unique blend of operational know-how, cultural leadership, and a passion for long-term growth.

Myrtho René: Distinguished Financial Leader | Advocate for Women’s Empowerment | Governance Strategist

Myrtho René is a seasoned governance strategist and public finance expert with over 40 years of leadership across Haiti’s central banking and public sectors. Known for her principled leadership and advocacy for gender equity, she has served on the Board of Governors of the Banque de la République d’Haïti and led national initiatives that advanced financial inclusion and institutional transparency. A sought-after international speaker, Myrtho has represented Haiti at the United Nations and global economic forums, inspiring change through her insight, diplomacy, and unwavering commitment to ethical progress.