Executive Biography

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.

Cheri Davies: Growth Strategist & Marketing Executive in Technology, Energy, and Telecom

Cheri Davies is a dynamic and visionary marketing executive with over 27 years of leadership experience driving growth across the technology, telecommunications, and energy industries. Currently leading brand and digital strategy at Constellation, the nation’s largest producer of carbon-free energy, she is widely recognized for her ability to transform data into actionable marketing strategies that deliver measurable business results. Cheri’s track record includes pioneering Comcast’s first intelligent data platform and launching high-impact subscription and SaaS-based products. A passionate mentor and respected leader, she blends strategic insight with a collaborative, people-centric approach, consistently building high-performing teams and scalable solutions that thrive in competitive markets.

Joan P. Young: Leading with Depth, Delivering with Vision

I’ve had the privilege of working across legal, financial, and wealth advisory landscapes over the past 40 years—from investment banking and family office strategy to C-suite leadership and client advisory. I’m proud to share this biography that reflects not only my experience but also the values and impact that have guided my career. Here is my biography.

Bruce Heard: Visionary Cybersecurity Leader Driving Resilience Across Industries

I’m a cybersecurity leader with over 15 years of experience helping organizations strengthen their defenses and navigate complex security challenges. From building strategic programs and leading incident response efforts to advising Fortune 500 companies and public sector clients, I’m passionate about creating resilient, business-aligned security strategies that make a real impact. I’ve had the privilege of working with incredible teams across the industry, and I remain committed to mentoring others, sharing knowledge, and supporting a safer digital future.