With over 25 years of expertise spanning investment banking, capital markets, and M&A, Brian Valik brings a wealth of knowledge and strategic insight to every organization he supports. As a CPA and MBA, Brian has guided middle-market and lower-middle-market companies through complex financial transactions, raising capital, and driving growth initiatives. His leadership is marked by integrity, collaboration, and a passion for mentoring others. Actively serving on several boards, including Morqlear and Exit Planning Exchange, Brian combines his extensive experience with a commitment to giving back and helping organizations succeed.

Excited to share my professional journey, spanning over 25 years in asset management, investment strategy, and financial leadership. My experience in macroeconomic research, portfolio construction, and client advisory has shaped my perspective on markets and investing. Passionate about financial education and sharing insights through public speaking and media engagements. Here is my biography.

The role of the Chief Operating Officer (COO) has evolved significantly, particularly in asset management, where the rapid advancement of technology and shifting client expectations have redefined operational priorities. Once focused primarily on trade reconciliation and reporting, today’s COOs must leverage data analytics, cybersecurity, and automation to enhance efficiency and maintain a competitive edge. They play a crucial role in translating strategic vision into action, optimizing processes, and fostering a culture of accountability and innovation. As businesses increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making, COOs must ensure seamless integration of new technologies while managing risk, regulatory compliance, and financial oversight. This dynamic role demands adaptability, strategic thinking, and strong leadership to drive operational excellence and long-term growth.

Character: Sandra B. Henriquez is a principled and integrity-driven leader dedicated to improving housing equity and public service through ethical decision-making and a commitment to social impact. Knowledge: With 50 years of experience in housing, real estate, and public administration, she possesses deep expertise in policy development, asset management, operations, and strategic planning. Strategic: She has successfully led large organizations through transformation by implementing innovative solutions, optimizing operational efficiency, and driving long-term growth in affordable housing and community development. Communication: A skilled communicator and active listener, she effectively engages with stakeholders, board members, and policymakers, ensuring clarity, collaboration, and impactful decision-making.

With over 34 years of experience in real estate, luxury travel, and manufacturing, I have built a career centered on strategic leadership, operational excellence, and client relations. My passion for driving change, optimizing investments, and leading high-performing teams has allowed me to make a significant impact in every organization I’ve worked with. If you’d like to learn more about my journey, here is my biography.

I am passionate about real estate finance, investment strategy, and capital markets, and I thrive on building relationships that drive growth and innovation. Over the past several years, I’ve had the opportunity to work on high-value real estate transactions, develop sophisticated financial models, and collaborate with global investors across multiple asset classes. As I continue to expand my expertise, I am eager to explore new opportunities, including board service, to contribute to organizations seeking strategic financial leadership.

James J. Bertus is a highly accomplished professional with over 40 years of experience in the pipeline industry, specializing in control center operations, risk analysis, and strategic process improvements. Known for his ability to enhance efficiency and ensure regulatory compliance, he has successfully managed multimillion-dollar asset movement projects while training and mentoring industry professionals. His expertise in pipeline logistics, regulatory audits, and technical system implementations has made him a trusted leader in optimizing operational performance. With a strong foundation in problem-solving, strategic planning, and relationship building, James continues to drive innovation and excellence in the ever-evolving energy sector.

Joe Grabowski is a distinguished financial services executive with over two decades of expertise in corporate finance, commercial real estate, and asset management. As the fractional chief financial officer of Blue Jay Investments LP and managing member of The Afton Group, LLC, he provides strategic financial consulting, forecasting, and cost analysis services. His career includes leadership roles at Regions Bank and Wells Fargo, where he managed large portfolios, optimized risk management strategies, and drove financial growth. A dedicated community leader, Joe has served on multiple nonprofit boards and holds an MBA from Azusa Pacific University. His strategic vision and financial acumen make him a trusted leader in the industry.

With a distinguished career spanning five decades, Robert Light has built a legacy as a leader in construction and financial management. Known for his strategic foresight, operational expertise, and commitment to excellence, Robert has consistently delivered transformative results for organizations in the commercial construction industry. From optimizing multimillion-dollar assets to driving operational efficiencies and fostering collaborative teams, his leadership philosophy centers on aligning strategic goals with actionable solutions. As the Principal Consultant at RW Light Consulting, LLC, Robert continues to leverage his unparalleled expertise to empower businesses, enhance profitability, and inspire innovation.

Chris Feeney is an accomplished financial executive with a proven track record of creating and accelerating shareholder value in multibillion-dollar corporations. With expertise spanning M&A, capital structure management, and strategic financial planning, he has held senior leadership roles in companies like Delaware North, Wyndham Worldwide, and Marriott International. Currently serving as Executive Vice President and CFO at Delaware North, Chris has driven nine consecutive years of record revenues and EBITDA, led transformative acquisitions, and implemented innovative financial processes delivering millions in recurring savings. A hands-on leader with a strategic vision, he empowers teams, enhances operational performance, and aligns strategy with execution. Chris holds a JD from the University of Virginia and an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh, combining legal and financial acumen to navigate complex challenges and deliver lasting value.

Manny Monahogios is a seasoned financial leader with over 30 years of exceptional experience in global markets, trading, and risk management. Renowned for his results-driven approach, Manny has excelled in delivering tailored financial solutions across corporate, institutional, family office, and ultra-high-net-worth client segments. His dynamic career spans wealth management, cross-border M&A, and derivatives strategy, demonstrating a remarkable ability to adapt to evolving industry landscapes. A proven leader and multi-tasking producer, Manny is committed to driving innovation, fostering a culture of excellence, and delivering measurable results through strategic initiatives and collaborative leadership.

With over 40 years of experience in commercial real estate, I’ve built a career dedicated to empowering clients, building trusted relationships, and delivering strategic value in every transaction. My expertise spans office, industrial, retail, and land markets, coupled with leadership roles in industry organizations and a commitment to mentorship. Here is my biography.

Joel Vande Boom is a highly accomplished Market Leader in Strategic Projects for the Midwest at Gilbane Building Company, where he oversees multi-site programs, ADA compliance initiatives, renovations, and new-build projects for high-profile clients such as Amazon and Wells Fargo. Recognized as one of ENR’s National Top 20 Under 40, Joel brings nearly two decades of expertise in construction, asset management, and project execution, combined with a passion for fostering innovation and operational excellence. Known for his entrepreneurial spirit, Joel successfully created and scaled "Gilby," a transformative business model within Gilbane, while also co-leading the Strategic Projects Group National Peer Group. His leadership, strategic acumen, and community-focused mindset make him a driving force in the construction and real estate industries.

I’m excited to share my professional biography, which highlights my journey through finance, asset management, and consulting. My passion lies in driving results, fostering collaboration, and delivering strategic insights that make a lasting impact.

I’m excited to share my professional biography, which highlights over 30 years of experience in real estate finance, valuation, and asset management. From leading complex refinancing deals to pioneering microgrid appraisals, I’ve focused on delivering innovative solutions and fostering meaningful partnerships.

Colin Widen is a dynamic leader with over 25 years of experience in the institutional asset management and life sciences sectors, specializing in capital formation, strategic financial planning, and advisory services. As Managing Member of Eden Roc Advisors, he focuses on innovative healthcare consulting, particularly in Health Care IT and Diagnostics, while also guiding Family Offices in optimizing their investment strategies. Colin's career includes leadership roles at Boston Innovation Capital and Parker Point Capital, where he raised over $1 billion and connected emerging companies with institutional investors worldwide. Known for his integrity, deep industry knowledge, and strategic vision, Colin continues to drive impactful relationships between investors and groundbreaking opportunities.