Executive Biography

Jeff Barela: Entrepreneurial Marketing Technology Executive and Strategic Advisor

Jeff Barela is a seasoned entrepreneurial leader with over 25 years of experience in database marketing, CRM, and SaaS, known for his ability to build, scale, and successfully exit a profitable marketing technology company. With deep expertise in strategic planning, finance, operations, legal, and sales, he takes a pragmatic, results-oriented approach to business growth and innovation. His leadership in AI-driven marketing technology, agile software development, and stakeholder engagement has positioned him as a trusted advisor in the industry. Currently, Jeff is seeking strategic advisory or part-time consulting opportunities where he can leverage his extensive experience to drive impactful results in the marketing technology sector.

Tom Johnston: Driving Growth, Governance, and Operational Excellence with Integrity and Vision.

I am excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my journey in corporate governance, strategic leadership, and operational excellence. Over the past three decades, I have been fortunate to lead organizations through growth, regulatory transformations, and financial success. I remain committed to mentorship, ethical leadership, and driving business strategy with integrity and vision.

Gregory G. Lee | Experienced Sales and Marketing Executive | Board Advisor | Business Growth Strategist

Gregory G. Lee is a seasoned sales and marketing executive with over 30 years of leadership experience in the manufacturing, automotive, trucks/trailers, and aftermarket components industries. Known for his ability to drive revenue growth, optimize sales teams, and execute strategic market expansions, Greg has successfully led high-performing teams across private equity and corporate environments. His expertise spans sales management, business development, P&L oversight, and global dealer channel management. With a strong track record in organizational restructuring and customer engagement, Greg is now seeking board advisory roles where he can leverage his extensive experience to help companies scale, optimize operations, and achieve sustainable growth.

Forrest Sherman | Experienced Leader in Environmental Restoration, Psychology, and Nonprofit Management

Forrest Sherman is a seasoned leader with over 30 years of experience in psychology, environmental restoration, nonprofit management, and construction. As the founder and director of Southwestern Arid Grassland Ecology, Inc., he has dedicated his career to restoring and preserving vital ecosystems while fostering collaboration among landowners, scientists, and practitioners. With a Ph.D. in psychology and a 20-year tenure in the U.S. Navy, Forrest has developed expertise in strategic planning, mental health, and leadership development. His global experience across 85 countries, combined with his skills in public speaking and nonprofit leadership, makes him a strong asset for organizations focused on sustainability and natural resource conservation. Passionate about lifelong learning and making a meaningful impact, he is actively seeking board opportunities in the mining, timber, natural resources, and healthcare industries to leverage his expertise for the greater good.

Shyamkumar Narayana: Driving Excellence in Program Management, Agile Leadership and Digital Transformation.

I am excited to share my executive biography, showcasing my journey in program and project management, agile leadership, and digital transformation across Fortune 500 companies and global enterprises. My passion for mentorship, innovation, and strategic execution has driven significant business success, and I look forward to collaborating with like-minded professionals.

Max Ignatiuk: Where there is a will, there is a way.”

With over 35 years of experience in sales, marketing, and leadership, I’ve had the opportunity to build businesses, expand into international markets, and drive strategic growth. Now, I am looking to bring my expertise to board roles where I can contribute to business success and innovation. If you’re looking for a dynamic leader with a proven track record in sales, business development, and strategic leadership, I’d love to connect. Here is my biography.

Dwayne Murray: Visionary Leader in Military and Veteran Affairs

Dwayne Murray is a seasoned leader with a distinguished career in military service, higher education, and strategic program development, currently serving as Deputy Director at Syracuse University’s Office of Veteran and Military Affairs. With a deep commitment to empowering military-connected students, faculty, and staff, he leverages his expertise in operational leadership, policy implementation, and program innovation to create impactful initiatives that foster academic and professional success. His extensive experience as a military officer, educator, and strategic planner has positioned him as a key advocate for veterans’ education and workforce integration, ensuring that military-affiliated individuals receive the resources and support needed to thrive. Through his leadership, Murray continues to drive institutional excellence, bridging the gap between military service and higher education with vision, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to service.

Dr. Tom Seel: Visionary Leader in Finance, Strategy, and Worship

I am excited to share my professional biography, highlighting my journey across finance, governance, education, and faith-based leadership. My passion for mentorship, strategic planning, and financial stewardship has driven my work in corporate finance, nonprofit development, and executive consulting. I welcome opportunities to collaborate with organizations that value integrity, innovation, and transformational leadership.

Thomas Hopkins: Scaling Businesses with Performance Marketing Excellence

Excited to share my executive biography, outlining my journey in growth marketing, performance advertising, and strategic leadership. With over a decade of experience scaling businesses from seed to Series A and beyond, I’m passionate about helping companies refine their customer acquisition playbooks and drive ROI-positive growth. Whether it’s through speaking engagements, advisory roles, or hands-on consulting, my goal is to help businesses achieve long-term success in an ever-evolving market.

Jon Abelack: A Leader in Psychotherapy, Business Strategy and Personal Growth; “Progress Over Perfection”.

I’m excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my journey in psychotherapy, business strategy, and leadership development. With a background in sales, marketing, and mental health, I specialize in helping individuals and organizations achieve resilience, balance, and peak performance. Whether in therapy, consulting, or executive coaching, my mission is to empower people to thrive both personally and professionally.

Cody Sprague: Empowering People, Optimizing Strategy, Driving Business Success.

I’m excited to share my executive biography, showcasing my expertise in HR strategy, workforce analytics, and board governance. With over a decade of experience in corporate leadership, workforce transformation, and strategic advisory, I thrive on driving business success through data-driven HR solutions and inclusive leadership.

Aalok Shah: Visionary Finance Leader and Strategic Investment Expert; Empowering Growth, Creating Value, Driving Strategic Excellence.

I am excited to share my professional journey and expertise in corporate finance, investment banking, and strategic investment management. My experience spans capital markets, structured finance, and business growth strategies, allowing me to navigate complex financial landscapes and drive long-term value. Here is my biography.

Jill Hunter: Transforming Careers, Empowering Leaders.

I’m passionate about helping professionals navigate career transitions, secure leadership positions, and achieve their highest potential. Whether you’re looking to pivot industries, negotiate a better offer, or refine your leadership skills, I’d love to guide you through the process. Here is my biography.

Steve Gordon | Visionary Entrepreneur, Innovation Strategist, and Technology Pioneer

Steve Gordon is a seasoned executive, entrepreneur, and innovator with over 40 years of leadership experience across manufacturing, consumer products, scientific instruments, and food & beverage industries. A proven expert in product development, venture capital, mergers & acquisitions, and automation, he has successfully founded, scaled, and exited multiple companies, including leading Intelligent Bio-Systems to a successful acquisition by Qiagen. Currently serving as CEO of Swish Hoop, Steve continues to drive innovation with patented sports technology solutions. With over 50 patents, extensive board experience, and a passion for mentoring and strategic growth, he is actively seeking advisory and board roles where he can apply his expertise to help organizations navigate innovation, commercialization, and market expansion.

Chaz Demerath: “Driving Business Transformation Through Strategy, Leadership, and Innovation.”

I'm excited to share my executive biography! Over the years, I've had the privilege of leading technology and business transformation initiatives, advising executives, and driving innovation across industries. My career journey—from military operations and satellite programs to enterprise consulting and digital transformation—has shaped my strategic approach to leadership, agility, and business success.

Ryan K. Stansfield: Director, DMPK-Toxicology at 858 Therapeutics

Ryan K. Stansfield is a seasoned leader with over 23 years of experience in small molecule drug discovery and development. Currently serving as Director of DMPK-Toxicology at 858 Therapeutics, he has successfully led teams through critical phases of drug development, including managing IND-enabling toxicology studies and building high-performing scientific teams. Stansfield is recognized for his deep expertise in ADME, safety pharmacology, and toxicology, as well as his strategic ability to drive projects from discovery to clinical trials. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional communication skills, collaborating across functions and ensuring timely, rigorous data to support regulatory submissions. With a proven track record in managing budgets, experimental design, and in-licensing diligence, Stansfield has contributed to the successful advancement of multiple therapeutic candidates.