I'm excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my 30+ years of HR leadership, workforce strategy, and organizational transformation. Throughout my career, I’ve been committed to developing people-centric policies, mentoring future leaders, and driving impactful change across multiple industries. If you're looking for a strategic HR leader, board member, or advisor, I'd love to connect!

Al Lustgarten is a seasoned technology executive with over four decades of experience driving innovation, security, and operational excellence in the media and technology industries. As the former Senior Vice President of Technology & Information Services at Hearst Television, he led strategic initiatives in artificial intelligence, cloud transformation, and cybersecurity, playing a key role in modernizing business practices. A recognized industry thought leader, Al has contributed to groundbreaking advancements in media advertising technology and has served on advisory boards, sharing his expertise in technology strategy and governance. Now retired from his executive role, he remains actively engaged in board and advisory opportunities, leveraging his deep knowledge to support organizations in navigating digital transformation, security challenges, and business growth.

I’m excited to share my professional executive biography, which highlights my experience in mergers and acquisitions, business succession planning, and financial strategy. My passion lies in helping business owners navigate transitions, maximize company value, and create sustainable growth strategies. If you’re looking for insights on business exits, valuations, or investor partnerships, I’d love to connect.

John Kollm is a seasoned executive leader with over 23 years of experience in retail, real estate, and operations, including 11 years at the corporate executive level. Specializing in acquisitions, site selection, pipeline management, and business scalability, he has successfully led large-scale expansion strategies and operational improvements for multi-unit retail brands. Currently serving as senior director of real estate & business development at Independent Pet Partners, John has played a key role in streamlining market analysis, lease negotiations, and store development, optimizing portfolio performance. His leadership extends to Rally House, Batteries Plus Bulbs, and Dick’s Sporting Goods, where he drove business growth, enhanced customer experience, and improved profitability. A dedicated community leader, John serves on the Woodbury, Minnesota Planning Commission and is a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC). Passionate about collaboration and strategic growth, he is seeking board opportunities where he can leverage his expertise to help businesses scale and succeed.

Richard Morgin is a hands-on and accomplished consultant with The Franchise Consulting Company, bringing extensive expertise in lead generation, franchise development, coaching, and closing. As a trusted advisor to executive leadership, he excels at dissecting complex financial and operational challenges, synthesizing data, and presenting strategic solutions that drive business success. With a proven ability to build and lead high-performing teams, Richard fosters a results-oriented culture that maximizes efficiency and profitability. His forward-thinking leadership in controllership, financial planning, and internal audit has consistently delivered significant cost savings and operational improvements. Recognized for his ability to vet strategic plans, analyze financial assumptions, and present data-driven recommendations, he continues to be a key force in helping businesses navigate growth and transformation.

Larry Turell is a seasoned financial strategist dedicated to helping business owners optimize employee benefits, protect personal assets, and achieve long-term financial stability. With over 30 years of experience, he specializes in restructuring benefits programs, implementing tax-efficient strategies, and enhancing employee retention through customized financial solutions. As a Financial Representative at National Financial Network and President of Customized Consulting Services, Larry has built a reputation for providing clear, strategic guidance that empowers business owners to focus on their passion while strengthening their financial foundation. His expertise, combined with a strong background in communication, allows him to simplify complex financial concepts, making him a trusted advisor for businesses looking to create sustainable growth and financial wellness for their teams.

Sarah Stevenson is a results-driven marketing executive with a proven track record of leading transformative initiatives, driving revenue growth, and building high-performing teams in the healthcare and technology industries. Adept at developing data-driven strategies and optimizing multi-channel campaigns, she aligns marketing efforts with overarching business objectives to maximize impact. Passionate about diversity and inclusion, Sarah is a recognized advocate for women leaders and an influential people leader who fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and empowerment. With expertise in strategic marketing, demand generation, and digital transformation, she continuously delivers measurable results while shaping the future of marketing leadership.

With over 39 years of experience, including 36 as President of Tritek Solutions, Inc., Donald J. Miller has established himself as a dynamic and results-driven leader in the electronics and technology sectors. Renowned for his expertise in engineering, business development, and strategic planning, Donald has successfully guided Tritek to become a trusted partner for leading manufacturers in embedded systems, RF/microwave components, and photonics. His commitment to fostering innovation and building lasting relationships has solidified his reputation as a trailblazer in the industry. Now, as he explores board service opportunities, Donald is eager to leverage his vast experience and leadership acumen to contribute to organizational growth and success.

James Alton Walker is a seasoned retail executive with over 30 years of experience in operations, sales, and strategic leadership. As a results-driven leader, he has successfully managed multi-unit retail operations, overseeing teams of thousands while optimizing profitability and customer experience. His expertise spans P&L management, marketing strategy, team development, and operational excellence. Most recently, as Vice President of Sales and Operations at Advance Auto Parts, James led 225 stores generating over $410 million in annual revenue, consistently exceeding sales and profitability targets. A dedicated mentor and advocate for leadership development, he has played a pivotal role in succession planning and diversity initiatives, including serving as the National Chair of the African American Employee Resource Group. With a strong foundation in business strategy and a passion for mentorship, James now seeks board opportunities where he can contribute his expertise in guiding organizations toward sustainable growth and operational excellence.

Bill Kinneman is a dynamic leader in data analytics, business intelligence, and strategic insights, with a proven track record of transforming complex data into actionable strategies that drive business growth. With extensive experience spanning startups and corporate enterprises, he has led high-performing teams at industry leaders such as Hearst Newspapers, Flipboard, and Spring Inc. His expertise in data-driven decision-making, business strategy, and technological innovation has played a crucial role in enhancing operational efficiencies and shaping the strategic direction of multiple organizations. A visionary in the analytics space, Bill is dedicated to leveraging data to foster innovation, streamline operations, and deliver meaningful business outcomes.

Mike Harvey is a high-impact executive with a proven ability to drive business growth, optimize operational efficiency, and cultivate leadership excellence across diverse industries. With extensive experience in sales, operations management, and business development, he has successfully led multi-site organizations, implemented strategic initiatives, and mentored high-performing teams to achieve measurable success. His expertise in financial management, compliance, and talent acquisition has enabled him to enhance profitability while fostering a customer-centric culture. Currently serving as a Franchise Business Coach at Neighborly Brands and Managing Partner at Mountain Medical Associates, Mike continues to leverage his leadership acumen to guide business owners and expand market presence. His career is defined by his ability to navigate complex relationships, build consensus, and execute strategies that drive sustainable growth and operational excellence.

Adam Kapel is a seasoned marketing and growth strategist with over three decades of experience in shaping compelling narratives and driving brand differentiation for B2B technology companies. As a former CMO, CGO, and CRO, he has led marketing, sales, and account teams across industry-leading organizations, refining their positioning and accelerating revenue growth. Now, in his semi-retired advisory role at **KAP: Kapel Advisory + Production**, Adam is dedicated to coaching the next generation of marketing and sales leaders while continuing to craft impactful, client-centric stories that set businesses apart. His expertise lies in transforming complex ideas into clear, engaging narratives that resonate with customers, fuel engagement, and drive sustainable success in competitive markets.

Aparna Srinivasan is a seasoned technology executive and product strategist with over 25 years of experience driving innovation, business growth, and digital transformation across Fortune 500 companies and high-growth startups. With expertise in digital commerce, AI/ML, blockchain, and financial risk analysis, she has successfully led product initiatives generating over $500 million in annual recurring revenue. A visionary leader, Aparna has reported to the C-suite, presented to board members, and co-owned P&L responsibilities, demonstrating her ability to scale businesses, develop market-leading strategies, and foster high-performing teams. Passionate about mentoring women in technology and advocating for STEM education, she is actively seeking board opportunities where she can leverage her expertise in product innovation, financial strategy, and executive leadership to drive meaningful impact.

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.

Celeste Thompson, SHRM-SCP, is a seasoned HR executive and chief people officer with 30 years of experience transforming organizations through strategic talent management, cultural engagement, and workforce optimization. With expertise spanning technology, nonprofits, and fashion, she has successfully led large-scale HR transformations, M&A integrations, and DEI initiatives that drive measurable impact. A trusted advisor to C-suite executives, Celeste specializes in aligning HR strategies with business objectives, enhancing leadership development, and implementing innovative HR technology solutions. Her global experience, spanning the U.K., Brazil, India, Australia, and the Asia-Pacific region, brings a unique perspective to workforce planning and organizational change. Passionate about fostering inclusive, high-performing cultures, Celeste is a sought-after thought leader and board member dedicated to shaping the future of human capital strategy.

I am excited to share my professional executive biography, highlighting my journey in strategic leadership, business growth, and operational excellence. Whether driving organizational transformation, mentoring future leaders, or serving on boards, my mission remains the same—empower people, optimize strategy, and deliver results.