I’m excited to share my professional executive biography, which highlights my experience in finance, risk management, executive leadership, and strategic business development. Over the years, I’ve worked with global institutions, academia, and corporate executives, helping organizations navigate financial complexities while mentoring the next generation of finance professionals.

Ashish Bhagat is a seasoned executive leader with over 25 years of expertise in financial strategy, corporate transformation, and global operations. As the Chief Operating Officer at Hitachi Vantara, he drives business performance, operational excellence, and large-scale financial initiatives that support growth and scalability. With a strong background in strategic planning, pricing optimization, and market expansion, Ashish has successfully led high-impact transformations across multinational organizations. His extensive international experience in Japan, India, China, Australia, and Europe enables him to navigate complex global markets and drive culturally attuned business strategies. A results-driven leader known for his collaborative approach and data-driven decision-making, Ashish is passionate about mentoring teams, fostering innovation, and delivering long-term business value. Now seeking board opportunities, he aims to leverage his financial acumen and strategic insight to help companies optimize growth and achieve sustainable success.

With over 25 years of expertise spanning investment banking, capital markets, and M&A, Brian Valik brings a wealth of knowledge and strategic insight to every organization he supports. As a CPA and MBA, Brian has guided middle-market and lower-middle-market companies through complex financial transactions, raising capital, and driving growth initiatives. His leadership is marked by integrity, collaboration, and a passion for mentoring others. Actively serving on several boards, including Morqlear and Exit Planning Exchange, Brian combines his extensive experience with a commitment to giving back and helping organizations succeed.

Parker Laville is a highly accomplished corporate and investment banking executive with over 37 years of experience in capital markets, structured finance, and lending. Throughout his career, he has successfully led teams, managed multi-billion-dollar portfolios, and provided strategic financial solutions across industries including energy, oil and gas, renewable energy, and corporate finance. Currently serving as managing director at Impact Strategic Funding, Parker specializes in debt financing for lower middle-market companies, leveraging his deep expertise in risk management, financial structuring, and client relationship development. A dedicated leader with international experience, he has worked with top global financial institutions and served on advisory boards, bringing a wealth of knowledge to governance and strategic decision-making. Now transitioning into board service, Parker is committed to using his extensive expertise to guide organizations in achieving financial stability, sustainable growth, and long-term success.

Matthew G. Bente is a dynamic financial executive with over 12 years of experience driving strategic growth and operational excellence across industries such as food and beverage, real estate, and financial services. Currently serving as the Head of Finance at Workhorse Brewing Company, Matthew has a proven track record of implementing transformative financial strategies, streamlining operations, and securing capital for growth initiatives. His leadership has consistently delivered measurable results, including significant revenue growth, cost savings, and enhanced organizational efficiency. Guided by his personal mission—"If you're not going to do it right, then don't do it at all"—Matthew is dedicated to helping businesses achieve sustainable success through collaboration, innovation, and financial stewardship.

I’m excited to share my professional biography, which outlines my 25+ years of experience in finance, operations, and leadership across industries such as SaaS, manufacturing, and technology. From driving operational excellence to facilitating profitable growth, my focus has always been on creating scalable solutions and empowering teams.

Wendell Shumway is a seasoned finance executive with over 30 years of experience in leadership, strategic planning, and global operations. Currently serving as Vice President and Segment Controller at Nine Energy Service, Wendell has a proven track record of driving organizational success in the energy sector. Fluent in Spanish and having lived internationally for eight years, he brings a multicultural perspective to his work, complemented by deep expertise in finance, accounting, and operational excellence. Guided by his personal motto, “Seek opportunities to build others in sincere praise,” Wendell is a dedicated leader committed to fostering growth and delivering meaningful impact.

I am excited to share my professional biography, showcasing over 30 years of experience in high technology and strategic financial operations. My journey reflects a commitment to driving growth, operational excellence, and transformation across industries.

Joe Grabowski is a distinguished financial services executive with over two decades of expertise in corporate finance, commercial real estate, and asset management. As the fractional chief financial officer of Blue Jay Investments LP and managing member of The Afton Group, LLC, he provides strategic financial consulting, forecasting, and cost analysis services. His career includes leadership roles at Regions Bank and Wells Fargo, where he managed large portfolios, optimized risk management strategies, and drove financial growth. A dedicated community leader, Joe has served on multiple nonprofit boards and holds an MBA from Azusa Pacific University. His strategic vision and financial acumen make him a trusted leader in the industry.

Stephen J. Lidd, CPA, is a seasoned financial strategist with over 45 years of expertise in personal finance, corporate strategy, and business development. With credentials that include a CPA license, FINRA Series 66 and Series 7 certifications, and an MBA in Finance from the University of Chicago, Stephen has played pivotal roles in driving success for organizations ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies. His career highlights include leading competitive assessments and M&A strategies at Verizon, managing venture capital investments at Sprint Nextel, and creating tailored financial plans for high-net-worth clients at LPL Financial An international thought leader, Stephen has delivered workshops and presentations while working across markets in Europe, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Guided by his mission of “helping families in personal finance,” Stephen’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to excellence make him an invaluable asset to any organization.

Rex Sherry is a seasoned financial services executive with over 30 years of experience in investment banking, venture capital, private equity, and corporate governance. Having successfully raised over $130 billion in capital and led more than 80 IPOs, Rex has a proven track record of scaling businesses, structuring complex financial transactions, and positioning companies for public markets. Currently serving as Managing Partner at Klamath Technology Credit Partners, he has sourced over $2 billion in investments for high-growth, pre-IPO companies. A founding board member of the Silicon Valley Directors Exchange, Rex is also a champion of corporate governance and strategic leadership, making him a transformative figure in the industry.

Paul Killpack is a meticulous and results-driven financial leader with over 25 years of experience as a Chief Financial Officer, specializing in driving business profitability, streamlining operations, and implementing cost-saving initiatives. Renowned for his expertise in maximizing cash flow, generating insightful financial reports, and fostering organizational growth, Paul has successfully scaled businesses across diverse industries. His hands-on approach and strategic vision have enabled him to lead high-performing teams, secure significant investment partnerships, and optimize financial infrastructures to support rapid expansion. With a proven track record of success in both public and private sectors, Paul remains committed to excellence, innovation, and delivering measurable results.

As I continue on my journey of supporting and growing businesses through board service, I’m excited to share my professional biography with those looking for insights into my experience and goals. With over 45 years of expertise across Wall Street, hedge funds, and financial consulting, I’m eager to connect with firms who seek strong guidance and growth strategies. Here is my biography.

I’m excited to share my professional journey with you! With over 13 years of experience in financial services, I’ve had the privilege of working with incredible clients and organizations, helping them achieve their goals through strategic planning and mentorship. My journey is rooted in integrity, communication, and a passion for excellence. Here is my biography.

I am thrilled to share my professional biography, which highlights my journey through 30 years of leadership in real estate, healthcare, and operational management. My experiences have shaped my passion for strategic innovation and creating meaningful impacts.

With over 35 years of global financial leadership experience, I have had the privilege of contributing to the growth and success of leading organizations in the chemical manufacturing industry and beyond. My career has been defined by strategic vision, operational excellence, and a commitment to creating lasting value. Here is my biography.