Millicent Fortunoff is a distinguished leader in strategic communications, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and social impact, recognized for her ability to integrate ethical business practices with purpose-driven initiatives that enhance corporate reputation and drive meaningful change. With over two decades of experience advising Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, she has developed and executed high-impact campaigns in ESG, DEI, and crisis management. A former journalist, her expertise in media relations has secured global earned media coverage, amplifying the reach of her clients’ missions. As a Trustee of Union Theological Seminary and an advisor to a 2020 U.S. presidential campaign, she continues to influence corporate and social policy at the highest levels while remaining actively engaged in New York City’s arts and philanthropic communities.

Jess Sheahen is a dynamic marketing executive with over two decades of experience driving business growth and innovation for global brands. Known for her servant leadership and strategic vision, Jess has a proven track record in scaling operations, building high-performing teams, and delivering data-driven marketing strategies that achieve measurable results. From leading multi-million-dollar revenue growth initiatives at Vail Resorts to overseeing global brand strategies at Otter Products, her expertise spans omni-channel marketing, brand development, and product launches. With a passion for fostering collaboration and driving transformational success, Jess brings unparalleled knowledge, strategic foresight, and a commitment to excellence to every endeavor.

Ned Munroe is a renowned global brand strategist and creative executive with over 30 years of experience leading some of the world’s most iconic consumer and lifestyle brands. As the former Global Chief Design Officer at Hanesbrands Inc., he played a key role in revitalizing Champion, Hanes, and C9 by Champion, driving billion-dollar growth and securing high-profile collaborations with Supreme, Coach, and Todd Snyder. Now the founder of Copper Drifts Studio, Ned helps brands navigate market disruption, product innovation, and strategic expansion with a visionary approach that merges design, storytelling, and business strategy. His expertise in trend analysis, merchandising, and creative leadership makes him a sought-after advisor and board member, guiding companies toward sustained growth and market leadership.

Gary Woodward is an accomplished executive with a proven history of leadership in business operations, professional coaching, and strategic growth. With expertise spanning the building supply industry, leadership training, and organizational management, he has successfully scaled businesses, optimized operations, and mentored professionals throughout his career. As Director of Operations at SLITERS Lumber and Building Supply, he oversees multiple locations, applying his extensive experience in team building, negotiation, and operational efficiency. His tenure as an Independent Certified Coach with The John Maxwell Team highlights his dedication to leadership development, while his role in expanding a family business into a multi-million-dollar enterprise showcases his strategic acumen. Rooted in integrity, strong communication, and a commitment to excellence, Woodward continues to make a lasting impact in every professional endeavor.

Sam Byrd is a results-driven executive with over 15 years of experience leading complex operations, optimizing business performance, and driving strategic growth through data-driven decision-making. With expertise in Lean Six Sigma methodologies and a strong engineering and analytical mindset, he has successfully led large-scale teams, improved operational efficiencies, and delivered measurable financial outcomes across multiple industries. Currently serving as Regional President at Sodexo, he oversees a $622 million managed volume, leading initiatives that enhance employee satisfaction, streamline processes, and maximize client value. Throughout his career, Byrd has demonstrated a proven ability to transform underperforming operations, implement innovative strategies, and foster a culture of excellence that drives long-term business success.

Daryl Griggs is a dynamic business development professional with a strong track record in driving sales growth, optimizing strategic sourcing, and negotiating high-value contracts that enhance profitability. With expertise in staff development, supplier agreements, and acquisition strategies, he excels in aligning product offerings with evolving market trends to maximize business success. His leadership fosters teamwork and operational excellence, ensuring that organizations thrive in competitive industries. Griggs' ability to analyze market data, streamline processes, and execute innovative business strategies makes him a key asset in driving sustainable growth and long-term success.

Greg Larsen is a seasoned revenue operations leader and go-to-market strategist with a track record of transforming businesses, optimizing sales infrastructures, and driving exponential growth. As the Founder and President of Catalyst Sales Consulting, he has helped a diverse range of companies—from billion-dollar enterprises to tech startups—build scalable and successful GTM systems. With executive leadership roles at Eltropy, Straker Translations, and Lingotek, Greg has consistently delivered outstanding results, including tripling ARR, unifying global business units, and increasing sales efficiency. His expertise in sales enablement, revenue operations, and strategic planning, combined with his ability to build high-performing teams, has made him a trusted advisor in the B2B technology space.

Diqwuan Thompson is a visionary business development and strategic partnerships leader with over 12 years of experience in technology, finance, and operational management. He has a proven track record of launching revenue-generating initiatives, optimizing partnerships, and driving organizational growth through data-driven decision-making. Throughout his career at Instacart, Amazon, and Citigroup, Diqwuan has successfully led cross-functional teams, spearheaded transformative programs, and enhanced operational efficiency at scale. Passionate about innovation and strategic problem-solving, he is committed to fostering impactful collaborations and shaping frameworks that drive sustainable success.

Effective corporate governance is the backbone of sustainable business success, requiring board members to balance strategic vision with robust oversight. This involves more than compliance; it’s about fostering transparency, accountability, and adaptability in a rapidly evolving regulatory and societal landscape. From aligning governance with strategic goals to navigating risks and prioritizing diverse perspectives, board members must act as stewards of long-term value for shareholders and stakeholders alike. By embracing best practices and staying ahead of emerging trends, today’s boards can ensure their organizations are not only resilient but positioned to thrive in the complexities of tomorrow’s business environment.

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.

Jerry Elliott is a transformative business leader with a proven track record of driving exceptional financial performance and operational excellence across telecommunications, technology, and media industries. Known for turning around underperforming companies, he has successfully led organizations to industry-leading positions by implementing strategic growth initiatives, optimizing financial structures, and fostering high-performance teams. As President, CEO, and board member of multiple publicly traded and private equity-backed companies, Jerry has consistently delivered shareholder value through innovation, execution, and disciplined leadership. His ability to navigate complex business challenges, coupled with his deep expertise in finance, operations, and corporate strategy, has made him a sought-after leader in dynamic and high-stakes environments.

Les Cox is a seasoned executive leader with over 20 years of experience driving strategic organizational growth, operational excellence, and sustainability across the energy and manufacturing sectors. Known for his ability to challenge conventional thinking, he has successfully led the integration of safety, health, and environmental practices into global business operations, significantly improving performance in high-risk industries. His expertise in risk management, governance, and compliance has shaped multinational operations, overseeing revenues exceeding $1 billion across 26 countries. With a strong foundation in strategic leadership and regulatory expertise, Les continues to influence the future of organizations by implementing forward-thinking solutions that drive sustainable success.

Andrew McLeish is a seasoned executive with over 40 years of leadership experience in the transportation, logistics, and warehousing industries. Known for his integrity-driven leadership and strategic acumen, Andy has successfully led large-scale operations, optimized supply chain efficiencies, and driven sustainable profitability. His expertise spans operational management, fleet logistics, P&L oversight, and business development, making him a trusted leader in the industry. A strong communicator and mentor, he is dedicated to team building and process improvement, ensuring long-term success for the organizations he serves. Guided by his principle, “Do The Right Thing,” Andy continues to seek impactful board and advisory roles where he can leverage his extensive industry knowledge and leadership expertise.

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.