Guiding Startup Triumph: The Vital Role of Independent Advisors and Platforms in Achieving Success

Jennifer T. Feldman, MBA, HTL (ASCP), QIHC, is a visionary healthcare business development leader with over 23 years of experience in oncology diagnostics, medical devices, and biotechnology. She has a proven track record of driving strategic partnerships, advancing innovative technologies, and optimizing commercial success in the healthcare industry. Jennifer’s expertise spans clinical pathology, research-use-only applications, and companion diagnostics, making her a key player in transforming patient care. With an MBA in International Business and certifications in histotechnology and immunohistochemistry, she seamlessly blends technical proficiency with business acumen. A sought-after speaker and industry expert, Jennifer is passionate about leveraging her knowledge and leadership to foster innovation, improve healthcare outcomes, and contribute to the future of medical advancements.

After 25+ years working at the intersection of science and strategy in cell and gene therapy, I’m excited to share a comprehensive look into my professional journey—from hands-on scientific innovation to leadership across CDMOs, biotech, and academic institutions. My passion lies in building high-impact teams, developing therapies that matter, and bridging ideas to execution. Here is my biography.

Klodjan Stafa is a visionary biomedical research leader with a proven track record of advancing innovation at the intersection of dermatology, neuroscience, and molecular biology. With over 15 years of experience spanning academia and industry, he leads high-impact R&D initiatives that drive product development and business growth on a global scale. Known for his ability to cultivate top-performing teams and foster strategic partnerships, Klodjan combines scientific depth with business acumen to deliver breakthrough solutions. His work has contributed to multi-million dollar product launches, influential publications, and patented technologies, positioning him as a trusted voice in translational science and a catalyst for meaningful change in biomedical research.

Brian Dakin, PMP, CIPM, is a seasoned leader in project management, data privacy, and technology solutions within the life sciences industry. As the Principal of Rhombus Consulting, he has driven strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and data governance for pharmaceutical and biotechnology organizations. In his role as President and Head of Operations for a trusted third-party entity, he has led efforts in patient de-identification, achieving HIPAA and SOC2 Type 2 compliance while increasing revenue and profitability. A thought leader and member of the Forbes Coaches Council, Brian also developed **On The Ball Theory**, a framework designed to help individuals unlock their potential and achieve meaningful personal and professional goals. His extensive experience, combined with his commitment to innovation and mentorship, has positioned him as an influential figure in both corporate leadership and personal development.

I’m excited to share my professional journey in agricultural sales, market development, and strategic leadership. With over 40 years of experience in the animal agriculture industry, I have had the privilege of working with top organizations, expanding markets, and introducing innovative solutions to drive growth. As I seek new opportunities to contribute through board service, I look forward to collaborating with like-minded professionals to support the agricultural sector's continued evolution. Here is my biography.

As a physician-scientist and biotech executive, I have dedicated my career to bridging the gap between groundbreaking medical research and commercial success. From securing multimillion-dollar funding to leading strategic M&A deals, my passion lies in driving healthcare innovation that delivers real-world impact. Here is my biography.

Eric Trac is a visionary healthcare investor and biopharmaceutical strategist with a unique blend of medical expertise and financial acumen, driving transformative growth in the healthcare sector. As a Senior Analyst & Director at Sarissa Capital Management, he leads activist investment strategies, evaluates public and private market opportunities, and serves as a board director at Lyndra Therapeutics. With a background in venture capital at Vida Ventures and Vivo Capital, he has played a pivotal role in high-impact transactions, including Bayer’s $4 billion acquisition of AskBio and Centessa Pharmaceuticals’ $250 million Series A. Trac’s deep scientific foundation stems from his MD and MBA from Stanford University and his research in biotechnology at MIT, where he graduated in the top 8% of his class. Recognized as one of *Business Insider’s* “14 Most Impressive Students at MIT,” he continues to leverage his expertise in medicine and finance to drive innovation, maximize shareholder value, and advance the future of biopharmaceuticals.

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.

Matthew Smollin, PharmD, is an accomplished leader in medical affairs and clinical innovation with over 15 years of clinical experience and a decade of industry expertise spanning clinical research, regulatory strategy, and team leadership. As Vice President of Medical Affairs at Karius, Inc., he directs medical and scientific strategies, guiding breakthrough advancements in molecular diagnostics while navigating complex FDA and Medicare regulatory processes. Throughout his career, he has successfully built and managed high-performing teams, fostered strong relationships with key opinion leaders, and played a pivotal role in clinical trial design, publication strategy, and scientific engagement. A respected speaker and thought leader, Dr. Smollin’s expertise in infectious disease diagnostics and next-generation sequencing has shaped industry best practices and advanced clinical innovation. His dedication to scientific excellence, strategic vision, and ability to translate complex medical insights into impactful solutions make him a driving force in the evolution of precision medicine and diagnostic technologies.

Excited to share my professional executive biography! With over 20 years of experience in biotech program management, drug development, and regulatory strategy, I have had the privilege of leading cross-functional teams, guiding early-stage startups, and ensuring successful clinical execution. If you're looking for strategic leadership, operational excellence, and industry expertise, I’d love to connect and explore opportunities to collaborate.

Ian Rickard is an accomplished executive with a proven track record of driving business growth, technological innovation, and market expansion in the biofuels, filtration, and beverage industries. As the General Manager of North America at Separator Technology Solutions US Inc., he leads strategic development and sales initiatives across the U.S. and Canada, advancing the company’s presence in multiple sectors. With a background in biotechnology and over two decades of experience, Ian has played a pivotal role in launching industry-first technologies, expanding market share, and fostering business transformation. His leadership, technical expertise, and strategic vision continue to shape the future of advanced filtration and separation solutions.

Excited to share my professional journey in NGS cancer diagnostics, biotech, and healthcare innovation! With over 20 years of experience spanning product management, AI-driven automation, clinical trials, and regulatory compliance, I have led multi-billion-dollar product launches and driven transformative advancements in precision medicine and oncology. My expertise in agile methodologies, strategic planning, and cross-functional leadership has enabled me to bridge science and business for impactful solutions. Here is my biography.

After an incredible career in pharmaceutical sales, biotechnology, and market access, I’m excited to share my executive biography. With over 35 years of experience leading high-performing teams, driving business growth, and shaping strategic sales initiatives, I remain passionate about mentoring, leadership development, and business strategy. I look forward to new opportunities to contribute my expertise and continue making an impact. Here is my biography.

Dr. James Giordano is a globally recognized leader in neuroscience, bioethics, and strategic policy, with over four decades of experience spanning academia, government, and private consulting. As the Executive Director of the Institute for Biodefense Research and a Senior Research Fellow at the U.S. Naval War College, he provides critical insights into neurotechnology, cognitive warfare, and biosecurity. A distinguished professor at Georgetown University Medical Center, Dr. Giordano has pioneered ethical frameworks for emerging technologies in medicine and national security. Widely published and an acclaimed speaker with over 1,500 invited lectures, he combines deep expertise with exceptional communication skills to drive innovation and ethical decision-making across global industries.

Luis Cardenas is a results-driven Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, Adjunct Professor, and Continuous Improvement Leader with a proven ability to optimize operations and drive innovation across industries. With a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from MIT and a Master’s in Engineering Management from UMass Lowell, Luis blends technical expertise with global experience gained from roles in manufacturing, healthcare, biotechnology, and defense. Known for his adaptability, strategic vision, and collaborative leadership, he has led transformative initiatives that delivered significant cost savings, streamlined global supply chains, and improved operational efficiency. Currently, as a Senior Process Improvement Engineer at Fresenius Medical Care and an Adjunct Professor at UMass Lowell, Luis continues to advance excellence, nurture future leaders, and champion continuous improvement methodologies to achieve organizational success.

Peter Payne is a highly accomplished executive with over 30 years of leadership experience in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and contract research organization (CRO) industries. Known for his integrity and results-driven approach, Peter has successfully led organizations through periods of significant growth and transformation. With deep expertise in drug development, clinical trials, and corporate strategy, he has built a strong reputation for driving innovation and strategic partnerships. His leadership spans notable roles, including Vice President at Optum, President of Gennaker Bio, and CEO at multiple biotech companies. Peter’s ability to communicate complex strategies and foster cross-functional collaboration has made him a respected figure in the life sciences industry.