“The tech problems are difficult, but the people’s problems are far more daunting.”
Elven is a seasoned technology and financial executive with over 55 years of experience leading digital transformation and pioneering innovation across financial services, technology, and academic spheres. His career reflects a rare fusion of hands-on technical knowledge, strategic insight, and the interpersonal skills needed to drive enduring change within complex organizations. As a recognized thought leader in capital markets technology and enterprise architecture, Elven designed and implemented systems and structures that have reshaped the way investment banks and global financial institutions operate.
From designing and building full-scale trade floors to leading data center consolidation and back-office application conversions, Elven’s deep expertise has consistently positioned him as a change agent. He served as a consultant to global financial giants including Citi, UBS, Deutsche Bank, Moody’s, and Verizon, offering advisory on IT strategy, infrastructure management, and regulatory automation. His ability to merge technical precision with operational demands has made him a sought-after consultant for some of the most challenging projects in the industry.
Elven’s entrepreneurial ventures further demonstrate his capacity to execute on big visions. As the founder of Madison Consulting Partners, he led large-scale technology initiatives for top-tier investment banks. These included high-impact projects in risk management, financial systems architecture, and full trade lifecycle integration. His work not only delivered innovative solutions but also improved regulatory compliance, efficiency, and profitability across organizations.
In parallel with his consulting accomplishments, Elven dedicated over two decades to higher education as a Professor at Seton Hall University’s Stillman School of Business. There, he taught courses in FinTech, securities market operations, and personal money management. He also spearheaded the creation of four pioneering facilities: the Trading and Analysis Center, Sports Management Polling Center, Entrepreneurial Research Center, and Marketing Research Center. Through these efforts, he cultivated a new generation of financial leaders while bridging the gap between theory and practice.
Elven is the author of Unavoidable Money Decisions, an insightful guide for individuals navigating financial complexity. His thought leadership has been featured in outlets such as WalletHub, reflecting his commitment to educating and empowering others. Even after transitioning from full-time academia, he continues to serve as a mentor, strategist, and innovator—energized by the opportunity to solve new challenges in today’s evolving business environment.
Internationally, Elven’s work took him across key financial hubs including Germany, London, Japan, and Canada, providing him with valuable cross-cultural insights and experience in global operations. Whether addressing data center logistics or enterprise-wide application rollouts, his strategic perspective consistently integrates global best practices with local market needs.
Throughout his career, Elven demonstrated a unique capacity for understanding both the technical intricacies and the human dynamics that drive successful transformation. His leadership philosophy hinges on the belief that while technology enables growth, it is people who determine its success. This human-centered approach defined his leadership style, making him not just a technical expert but a trusted advisor and coach to executives, teams, and students alike.
Elven is driven by a relentless curiosity and a passion for creating order out of complexity. His career reflects an enduring commitment to excellence, innovation, and impact. With a background that spans frontline technology development, C-suite consulting, and executive education, he offers unparalleled breadth and depth to any organization’s board or leadership team.
Now actively seeking board service opportunities, Elven is uniquely positioned to contribute strategic guidance and governance across industries where technology, finance, and operations intersect. He is particularly drawn to large organizations in financial services, insurance, investment banking, and technology where his expertise can help steer innovation, manage risk, and foster collaborative cultures.
Character:
Elven is principled, dependable, and deeply committed to continuous learning. His long-standing dedication to both industry and education reflects a life of integrity, perseverance, and service.
Knowledge:
With more than five decades of experience, Elven possesses a vast understanding of digital infrastructure, capital markets, and enterprise operations. His ability to diagnose, design, and deliver scalable solutions has been proven time and again in high-stakes environments.
Strategic:
Elven’s work is marked by big-picture thinking and careful execution. He excels at translating business goals into technology strategies that deliver measurable value across global organizations.
Communication:
A skilled communicator, Elven makes complex technical ideas accessible to diverse audiences—from C-suite executives to students. His teaching, writing, and consulting work demonstrate a gift for clarity and connection.
