Johnny Iannelli is a visionary Chief Technology Officer, entrepreneur, and board advisor with over 20 years of experience in financial strategy, digital transformation, and creative entrepreneurship. With a deep-rooted passion for aligning technology with business goals, Johnny consistently delivers solutions that drive efficiency, reduce costs, and foster sustainable success across fintech, web applications, and creative content. His unique blend of technical and artistic expertise makes him an asset to forward-thinking organizations.
As the founder of FreeMind Network, Johnny created a multi-program digital content platform that demonstrates his ability to scale businesses through technical and creative innovation. By automating content production pipelines and integrating business process optimizations through platforms like HubSpot, Johnny successfully reduced production time by 50% while building a thriving community of creators and business partners. His leadership at FreeMind Network illustrates his talent for blending technical innovation with creative vision, enabling him to build strong partnerships and establish a powerful brand presence.
In addition to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Johnny is the founder of Cowabunga Johnny LLC (DBA Trading Card Memories), a business focused on art, nostalgic trading cards and collectibles. His innovative approach to business and creative strategy has allowed him to grow the company through e-commerce platforms like Squarespace and Etsy, connecting with collectors, influencers, and local businesses. Johnny’s ability to align his creative output with market trends showcases his forward-thinking approach to entrepreneurship, driving both sales and brand visibility.
Previously, as a Senior Solutions Architect at Vanguard, Johnny led significant digital transformation initiatives, including a large-scale cloud migration project that saved the company $1.2 million annually. His expertise in managing vendor relationships with major industry players like Bloomberg and Morningstar enhanced Vanguard’s financial advisory offerings and improved the scalability and performance of critical financial applications. Johnny’s strategic leadership, particularly in the modernization of legacy CRM systems and cross-functional team integration, highlights his capability to navigate complex organizational changes while maintaining operational excellence.
Johnny’s extensive experience in finance, portfolio analytics and optimization, and vendor management, combined with his passion for collaboration and innovation, makes him an exceptional candidate for any board looking to navigate the complexities of today’s business landscape while driving sustainable, long-term success.
Currently serving on the Finance/Investment Committee of the Drexel Rugby Alumni Association, Johnny provides financial oversight and strategic guidance to support the growth and sustainability of the university’s rugby programs. His involvement reflects his commitment to fostering community and advancing both men’s and women’s athletics through sound financial strategies and fundraising efforts.
Johnny’s broad international exposure, working with clients in Canada, the UK, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Australia, India, Pakistan, and Mexico, has equipped him with a global perspective on technology and business challenges. In addition to English, he is fluent in American Sign Language, which enhances his ability to communicate and connect with diverse teams and communities.
A strong advocate for community-driven initiatives, Johnny is not only a leader in the corporate world but also in the creative and entrepreneurial space. His passion for art and animation, as well as his work in developing a collaborative network of artists through Trading Card Memories, reflects his belief in the power of human connection and storytelling. Johnny’s ability to bring people together and foster creativity is at the heart of his personal and professional endeavors.
Johnny is actively seeking to expand his impact by serving on corporate and advisory boards. With a proven track record of success in aligning financial, technological, and creative strategies, he is uniquely positioned to offer valuable insights and contribute to the growth and development of forward-thinking organizations. Johnny’s extensive experience in exit strategies, portfolio analytics, and vendor management, combined with his passion for collaboration and innovation, makes him an exceptional candidate for any board looking to navigate the complexities of today’s business landscape while driving sustainable, long-term success.
An adaptable and resilient leader with a 16-year background in corporate IT, currently pioneering entrepreneurial ventures focused on art, media, and community building. Known for a solution-oriented mindset, he excels at navigating complex challenges and turning ideas into actionable plans, whether in launching innovative projects or fostering connections within creative and professional networks.
His expertise spans both technical and financial domains, complemented by a genuine passion for community development. As the founder and CTO of FreeMind Network, he has built platforms to connect, educate, and entertain audiences through media and shared nostalgia. His ventures, including Trading Card Memories, emphasize creating human connections and meaningful experiences.
Throughout his career, Johnny Iannelli has built a reputation as a visionary leader, mentor, and connector. He leverages his diverse skill set to solve complex challenges, improve business processes, and inspire teams to achieve their full potential. Whether leading a technical migration, advising on financial strategy, or creating a thriving artistic community, Johnny remains committed to delivering impactful, long-lasting results.
Character: Johnny Iannelli is a visionary leader who blends creativity and technology with a strong commitment to fostering human connections and community-driven initiatives. Known for his Resilience & Adaptability, Johnny has leveraged years of corporate experience to pivot into successful entrepreneurial ventures, facing challenges with tenacity and creativity.
Knowledge: With over 20 years of experience in fintech, digital transformation, and creative entrepreneurship, Johnny has a deep understanding of aligning financial and technological strategies to achieve business success.
Strategic: Johnny is highly adept at executing large-scale initiatives like cloud migrations and CRM modernizations, while also growing businesses by leveraging partnerships, automation, and market trends. His Analytical Problem Solving skills allow him to dissect complex issues from multiple perspectives, backed by a history of strategic thinking and practical solutions.
Community Builder: Driven by a deep commitment to fostering connections, Johnny has established collaborative spaces that celebrate shared experiences and promote engagement. His dedication to community-building is at the heart of his work, both in corporate roles and entrepreneurial endeavors.
Communication: As a mentor and connector, Johnny excels in translating complex technical concepts into actionable business strategies, facilitating collaboration across diverse teams and stakeholders.
