After more than three decades in technology, business leadership, and service to the public sector, I’m proud to share this executive biography that reflects my journey, values, and the experiences that have shaped my work. I’ve always believed that innovation, collaboration, and a people-first approach are essential to creating meaningful impact.

Mark Jacobsen is a visionary brand and business strategist with over 30 years of experience guiding entrepreneurs and organizations toward sustainable growth. A serial entrepreneur with nine start-ups to his name, he blends practical, real-world insight with deep strategic acumen to help businesses thrive in competitive markets. From founding innovation-driven consultancies to advising some of the world’s most iconic brands—including Starbucks, Amazon, Microsoft, and Costco—Mark’s work is rooted in cultural relevance, human-centered design, and evidence-based strategy. His leadership continues to shape the future of work, brand development, and entrepreneurial success across industries.

Robert S. Chandler is a seasoned financial executive with more than 30 years of experience driving growth, efficiency, and transformation across diverse industries. Known for his servant leadership style and people-first philosophy, he has led high-impact initiatives ranging from ERP implementations and operational restructurings to mergers, acquisitions, and successful business exits. His career highlights include scaling DRB Systems to a \$130 million enterprise, uncovering over \$2.5 million in efficiencies at Lynxis LLC, and navigating a \$2 million retail startup to profitability during the pandemic. With a strong foundation in both corporate finance and entrepreneurship, Robert combines strategic vision with hands-on execution, empowering organizations to adapt, grow, and lead with purpose.

McKenna Riggles is a globally minded business development strategist recognized for her ability to scale early-stage startups through strategic partnerships, data-driven decision-making, and cross-functional collaboration. With experience spanning the U.S., U.K., and South Africa, she has led transformative initiatives in AI, education, logistics, and consumer products. From architecting high-impact alliances to optimizing go-to-market strategies, McKenna blends analytical rigor with creative vision to deliver measurable growth and lasting impact for emerging ventures.

When New York shut down in March 2020, my $10 million dry cleaning and textile restoration business lost 90% of its revenue overnight. What followed was a masterclass in crisis leadership, adaptability, and human resilience. With over 100 employees, nine locations, and clients who vanished in an instant, we had no choice but to rethink everything—from furloughing staff and negotiating leases to revamping our business model into a contactless pickup and delivery service. This is a story of radical transformation, forged in chaos, where survival meant shedding the old playbook and rebuilding a leaner, more agile operation—one personal phone call, one improvised role, and one cleaned garment at a time.

After more than three decades of experience in finance, real estate development, franchise ownership, and community leadership, I’ve taken the time to reflect on my journey and capture it in a detailed executive biography. From building businesses to building relationships, every chapter has shaped who I am as a leader.

I’ve always believed that success is not only about performance but also about purpose. From working across investment banking and cross-asset sales to contributing to causes like Make-A-Wish, I’ve grown into a leader who values strategy, adaptability, and connection. I’m excited to share a more detailed look into my journey, the values I live by, and the impact I aim to create. Here is my biography.

I'm excited to share my professional journey, from my roots in Saudi Arabia to founding Madina Papel in California. This biography encapsulates my experiences in storytelling, activism, and innovation. Here is my biography.

Ed Jones is a seasoned global executive with a distinguished track record in financial leadership, governance, and operational transformation across the real estate and hospitality sectors. With decades of experience overseeing complex, multi-billion-dollar portfolios spanning North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, Ed has led major initiatives in financial reporting, audit and risk oversight, capital planning, and systems modernization. Known for his ability to drive enterprise-wide efficiencies, guide international teams, and navigate regulatory frameworks, he brings a strategic, ESG-aligned perspective to both corporate and board leadership. A former senior director at Tishman Speyer and co-founder of a successful boutique hospitality venture, Ed combines deep industry knowledge with entrepreneurial insight, making him a valuable asset to forward-thinking organizations and boards seeking strong financial and operational stewardship.

I'm proud to share a glimpse into my journey spanning over 40 years across engineering, manufacturing, 3D printing, and entrepreneurial ventures. From founding Pure Air Systems to empowering students through 3D printing camps, every step has been rooted in innovation, integrity, and a desire to create meaningful impact. Here is my biography.

I’m thrilled to share my executive biography, which reflects the journey, passions, and professional milestones that have shaped my path in business, real estate, agriculture, and leadership over the past 26 years. From building multi-use facilities to cultivating innovative agricultural systems, I’ve been guided by a deep sense of purpose, integrity, and curiosity.

I’ve been incredibly fortunate throughout my career—starting in the Executive Office of the President, launching and growing multiple companies, and leading global nonprofit boards. Today, I’m passionate about helping organizations and leaders reach their highest potential through strategic vision, mentorship, and board governance. Here is my biography.

I'm excited to share my professional journey, which encompasses culinary entrepreneurship, restaurant consulting, and community advocacy. From co-founding a kosher food truck in Boston to advising on restaurant development, my focus has always been on blending culinary excellence with social impact. Here is my biography.

Kathy McDonald is a results-driven executive with over a decade of experience leading business development, operations, and strategic growth across a range of industries. As Managing Partner at OX, she has successfully overseen company expansion, financial performance, and team leadership, driving innovation and operational efficiency. Her background includes pivotal roles in entertainment, hospitality, and security services, where she consistently delivered measurable outcomes through community engagement, brand development, and client relationship management. Kathy’s strength lies in her ability to build strong teams, implement effective systems, and create lasting business impact through thoughtful, strategic leadership.

After 20+ years in branding, design, and creative leadership across apparel and lifestyle industries, I’m excited to share a deeper look at my professional story. From building global brand identities to founding my own purpose-driven venture, the journey has been one of creativity, collaboration, and impact. Here is my biography.

Joan Brothers is a dynamic leader in real estate and international business, serving as CEO and President of Manhattan Boutique Real Estate and President of Smart NY Solutions Inc. With a career that spans global corporations, boutique entrepreneurship, and Smart City consulting, Joan blends strategic expertise with a deep commitment to community and innovation. She holds degrees from Boston College and the University of Hartford and continues her professional development at NYU’s Schack Institute of Real Estate. A certified negotiation expert, published author, and award-winning entrepreneur, Joan is recognized for her ability to create meaningful connections, drive growth, and lead with vision and integrity in an evolving global marketplace.