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

Kris Stark is a seasoned Senior Program Manager with a proven track record of driving strategic initiatives, optimizing operations, and leading high-performing teams across both government and private sectors. With expertise in program management, risk mitigation, and organizational leadership, he has successfully managed multi-million and billion-dollar contracts, accelerated technological advancements, and improved operational efficiency for defense and cloud-based enterprises. His ability to navigate complex challenges, streamline processes, and mentor teams has consistently delivered measurable success. Holding multiple professional certifications and a Top Secret security clearance, Kris remains a forward-thinking executive dedicated to shaping the future of program management and business transformation.

After three decades on Wall Street, I’ve built a career on financial expertise, strategic investments, and deep insights into the energy sector. As I explore new board opportunities, I am excited to leverage my knowledge to help companies grow, innovate, and succeed. Here is my biography.

Christi Westman is a seasoned financial executive with extensive expertise in corporate accounting, financial management, and regulatory compliance. As Vice President and Controller at Gate City Bank, she oversees financial operations, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and compliance while driving strategic growth initiatives. With a strong background in public and corporate accounting, including leadership roles at Titan Machinery, Caterpillar, Valspar, and Deloitte, Christi has a proven track record of optimizing financial reporting, managing audits, and leading high-performing teams. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA), she combines technical expertise with strategic vision to enhance profitability and operational effectiveness. Dedicated to mentorship and industry leadership, she actively contributes to professional organizations and community initiatives, reinforcing her commitment to financial excellence and organizational success.

Arthur Chmiel is a results-driven business leader with over 30 years of experience in the restaurant, real estate, and property management industries. As the General Manager and Co-Owner of Burger Tech DBA Burger 21 Franchise in Orland Park, he has successfully led the brand’s expansion into the Chicagoland market, earning multiple awards for operational excellence, food quality, and customer service. With a strong background in financial management and team development, Arthur has also played a key role in real estate administration and property management. His previous tenure with McDonald’s spanned two decades, during which he managed one of the highest-performing locations in the country and contributed to the company’s multi-unit expansion. A dedicated longevity athlete and marathon runner, Arthur continuously applies his commitment to excellence both in business and personal performance. His ability to optimize operations, foster leadership, and drive profitability makes him a distinguished executive in the industry.

Liv Isham is a transformational leader with over a decade of experience in corporate strategy, market analysis, and organizational development. As Senior Director of Corporate Strategy at Point B, she drives enterprise-wide strategic planning, breaking down silos and aligning teams around key business initiatives. With a background spanning consulting, sustainability, and military leadership, she combines analytical expertise with human-centered design to mobilize teams for impact. Holding advanced degrees from Texas McCombs, Johns Hopkins, and West Point, Liv is also a published thought leader in sustainable business strategy. Passionate about empowering mission-driven organizations, she excels in bridging strategy and execution to create lasting change.

Mikhail Papovsky is a transformational leader, technologist, and entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience driving strategic execution and digital transformation across industries. As the founder and CEO of Massaro, he has pioneered a disruptive consulting model that delivers breakthrough results in business optimization, mergers, technology implementation, and organizational change. With a deep expertise in aligning technology with business objectives, Mikhail has successfully led high-impact initiatives for Fortune 500 companies and emerging enterprises. A passionate mentor and advisor, he serves on multiple boards and is committed to fostering leadership, innovation, and meaningful connections. His guiding philosophy—"I look for wins in all business models"—reflects his dedication to helping organizations achieve sustainable success.

I am excited to share my professional journey and leadership experience spanning five decades in manufacturing, operations, and strategic growth. From driving innovation and operational excellence to leading global expansions and M&A deals, my career has been defined by transformational leadership and continuous improvement. I invite you to read more about my experience and insights—here is my biography.

I’m excited to share my executive biography, which highlights my journey in revenue operations, GTM strategy, and business transformation. With over 26 years of experience helping high-growth SaaS and tech companies optimize sales processes, streamline operations, and drive revenue growth, I remain passionate about building scalable businesses and fostering operational excellence.

J. Joseph (Joe) Otte is a seasoned environmental consultant and business leader with over 44 years of experience in environmental due diligence, sustainability, and compliance. Throughout his career, he has guided organizations in the engineering, manufacturing, food, and environmental industries through complex regulatory landscapes, ensuring responsible growth and environmental stewardship. With a strong foundation in water and air quality, hazardous waste management, and remediation, Joe has been a trusted advisor in both the private and public sectors. His leadership extends to nonprofit board service, expert witness testimony, and mentoring executives to see beyond their immediate challenges. Passionate about fostering sustainable business practices, Joe is actively seeking board roles where he can apply his strategic expertise, industry knowledge, and leadership acumen to support organizations in their environmental and operational goals.

I’m excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my journey in sales, operations, and business leadership. With over 15 years of experience, I’ve been fortunate to build high-performing teams, drive strategic growth, and deliver impactful solutions to customers worldwide. Here is my biography.

"I'm excited to share my professional executive biography, highlighting my journey in digital health, MedTech innovation, and strategic commercialization. Over the past 15 years, I've been fortunate to lead global marketing strategies, pioneer AI-powered healthcare solutions, and drive business growth across the industry. Whether through leadership roles at Philips, Dexcom, Fitbit, and Medtronic or my advisory work with top investment firms, my focus has always been on advancing digital health solutions and patient care.

I’m excited to share my executive biography, which highlights my journey in talent acquisition, leadership, and healthcare workforce strategy. With over 17 years of experience, I’ve dedicated my career to building high-performing teams and driving business success through strategic hiring initiatives.

Daniel Warren, Esq., is a legal and privacy executive specializing in technology, artificial intelligence, data protection, and gaming. With a strong foundation in corporate compliance, contract negotiation, and international privacy regulations, he advises organizations on mitigating legal risks while fostering innovation. Holding multiple privacy certifications, Daniel is a recognized authority in AI governance, data security, and regulatory compliance. His expertise spans jurisdictions across the United States, Europe, Australia, and Latin America, making him a valuable asset for businesses navigating global privacy challenges. Passionate about ethical AI practices and legal strategy, Daniel is actively seeking board and advisory roles where he can apply his knowledge to drive compliance, risk management, and sustainable growth.

John Contino is a distinguished financial expert with over 41 years of experience in structured finance, mortgage analysis, and investment advisory. As the founder and principal of Sperlinga Advisory LLC, he has guided institutional clients through complex financial landscapes, specializing in mortgage-backed securities, mortgage servicing rights, and litigation support. His strategic foresight and risk management expertise have been instrumental in successfully navigating market volatility, including his leadership in de-levering investment funds ahead of the 2007 mortgage crisis. A respected expert witness, John has provided testimony in high-profile financial litigation cases, further showcasing his ability to analyze and communicate intricate financial matters. With a strong foundation in investment strategy and structured finance, he is now focused on leveraging his extensive expertise to help businesses grow and thrive in today’s evolving financial environment.

Adam Rynd is a seasoned business leader, entrepreneur, and investor with a proven track record of success across real estate, retail, technology, and finance. As the Owner and Designated Broker of Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate, he has built the firm into the premier brokerage in Central Washington, overseeing more than $300 million in annual transactions. In addition, he leads WOODIN ENTERPRISES LLC, a thriving retail business portfolio that has achieved consistent 35%+ annual revenue growth. With prior leadership roles at Salesforce and Microsoft, Adam has extensive experience in sales, contract negotiation, marketing strategy, and operational management. His ability to develop and execute strategic initiatives, combined with his commitment to innovation and community impact, has made him a driving force in every industry he operates in.

With over 30 years of experience in finance, governance, and corporate strategy, I have had the privilege of working with outstanding organizations to drive financial stability and leadership excellence. I am passionate about fostering environments where teams can thrive and implementing best practices at the board level. Here is my biography.