Balancing personal fulfillment with professional success starts with building a business that holds real, transferable value. Whether you're planning your retirement or just want more freedom today, focusing on three essential traits can elevate your business: strong next-level management, scalable operational and financial systems, and a diverse customer base. These attributes not only make your business more attractive to future buyers but also empower you to enjoy greater flexibility and resilience in the present. Think of it as future-proofing your company—laying the groundwork now so you can reap both immediate and long-term rewards.

Joanna Lesniewski is a transformational executive known for her people-first leadership and strategic growth expertise. As Acting COO and SVP of Global Professional Services at Pivotree, she has successfully led large-scale organizational transformations, including M&A integrations and global restructures, while consistently improving operational efficiency and profitability. With a deep understanding of financial planning, cross-functional collaboration, and cultural transformation, Joanna empowers high-performing teams and builds inclusive environments where innovation and excellence thrive. Her ability to align big-picture strategy with day-to-day execution has made her a trusted leader in navigating complexity, fostering sustainable growth, and delivering meaningful impact.

I'm thrilled to share a more complete view of my professional journey—a path built on real estate innovation, operational leadership, and a passion for making a tangible difference in every role I take on. With over 25 years of experience and a deep belief in purpose-driven impact, I look forward to connecting with others who share similar values and goals. Here is my biography.

After decades of working with startups and mid-sized companies—leading turnarounds, launching brands, and guiding rapid growth—I'm excited to share my professional biography. It's a reflection of the journey I've taken, the values I hold, and the work I'm still passionate about. Here is my biography.

Beth Burak is a seasoned financial and tax professional with over 20 years of experience spanning government, corporate, and public accounting sectors. A Nevada Certified CPA with a Master’s in Taxation, she brings a unique blend of regulatory insight and private sector strategy to every role she undertakes. Known for her meticulous analytical skills and deep technical knowledge, Beth has led high-stakes audits, managed multimillion-dollar budgets, and developed advanced financial models that support organizational growth and compliance. Her commitment to ethical leadership, continuous learning, and mentoring others defines her as a trusted expert and strategic partner in complex financial environments.

Donna E. Collins is a transformative finance and operations executive with over 30 years of experience leading mission-driven organizations through strategic growth, financial reform, and operational excellence. Known for her integrity, cross-functional leadership, and deep expertise in nonprofit finance, Donna has successfully implemented enterprise systems, managed global compliance, and built high-performing teams across the U.S. and internationally. Her ability to align strategy with execution makes her a trusted advisor to executive teams and boards alike.

With over four decades of leadership experience, John Heflebower is a dynamic strategic advisor who blends deep financial expertise with operational acumen to help businesses prepare for transformative growth and successful exits. From his roots in the wine and spirits industry to his advisory roles in cybersecurity and energy management, John brings a unique cross-industry perspective. As a Certified Exit Planning Advisor and Certified Financial Planner, he specializes in guiding mature companies through liquidity events with a focus on maximizing value, mitigating risk, and aligning business goals with personal outcomes. A lifelong learner and communicator, John is committed to helping leaders think beyond the obvious, craft smarter strategies, and build organizations that are ready for what’s next.

Joanna Rodriguez is a seasoned finance executive with over two decades of experience driving strategic growth and financial excellence in the consumer packaged goods and food industries. As Vice President of Finance at Miss Jones Baking Co., she leads critical initiatives in budgeting, forecasting, capital strategy, and investor relations. A Certified Management Accountant (CMA) with a proven track record in high-growth environments, Joanna combines financial rigor with operational insight to support companies scaling toward long-term success. She is passionate about using her expertise to mentor emerging leaders and contribute meaningfully through board service.

Jeanine Cicenia is a seasoned executive who blends strategic insight with operational expertise to drive growth across media, advertising, entertainment, and technology. With a track record of success in CFO and commercial leadership roles, she is known for turning complex challenges into scalable business opportunities. Jeanine has led high-impact negotiations, developed innovative financial models, and built collaborative, cross-functional teams that deliver results. Her experience spans global organizations and high-growth environments, where she consistently aligns people, ideas, and strategy to achieve ambitious business goals on time and on budget.

Strategic growth initiatives serve as the backbone for companies aspiring to achieve market leadership in a fast-evolving business landscape. By integrating strategic planning, financial foresight, and organizational capacity, businesses can align their operations with long-term goals while remaining agile in the face of change. A solid strategy acts as the intellectual core, financial planning ensures the lifeblood flows efficiently, and organizational capacity provides the structural support needed to execute plans effectively. Tools like the balanced scorecard bridge vision and execution, fostering accountability and cross-functional engagement. Ultimately, a well-rounded, forward-thinking approach to growth empowers organizations to capitalize on opportunities, weather uncertainties, and thrive sustainably.

Edwin W. (Ed) Thauer, Jr., CLU, ChFC, LIC, is a veteran Wealth Manager with over 49 years of experience guiding individuals, families, and businesses through strategic financial planning, estate preservation, and retirement strategies. Known for his integrity, leadership, and deep industry knowledge, Ed has earned national recognition as a six-time Top of the Table qualifier with the Million Dollar Round Table. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to helping others make informed decisions, and now, as he transitions into legacy-focused work, Ed seeks meaningful board opportunities where he can continue to share his insight and serve with purpose.

I'm proud to share my executive biography, which highlights my journey through finance, consulting, and business leadership. For over two decades, I've worked across medical, manufacturing, and IT sectors, helping businesses transform their financial practices and grow strategically.

I’m excited to share a bit more about my professional background and the value I bring to board and advisory roles. With over 45 years of executive experience, I’m passionate about helping organizations navigate strategic challenges and seize new opportunities. Here is my biography.

Brian McNeill is a strategic CFO and accomplished board leader with a proven track record of transforming financial performance, strengthening governance, and driving operational excellence across the international energy sector. With more than 30 years of experience at National Grid, he has led complex business units through large-scale transformation, delivering measurable results in return on equity, cash recovery, and business growth. Recognized for his ability to align financial strategy with operational execution, Brian has played a pivotal role in accelerating the clean energy transition, integrating emerging technologies, and building diverse, high-performing teams. His expertise spans financial planning, regulatory strategy, board governance, and organizational performance, making him a trusted advisor and respected leader in navigating the evolving challenges of the global energy industry.

Surya Krishnan is a seasoned finance and strategy executive with over two decades of experience in corporate development, M&A, valuation, and strategic planning. He has led over $25 billion in transactions, managed $150 million in revenue, and advised C-level executives on financial strategy and business growth. With a strong background in corporate finance, venture capital, and financial consulting, Surya has played a key role in high-profile acquisitions and investment initiatives. In addition to his leadership in corporate finance, he is committed to mentorship and professional development, guiding MBA students and emerging business leaders through financial strategy and career growth. His expertise in data-driven decision-making, market analysis, and corporate advisory continues to shape the future of finance and business strategy.

Robert Bacchioni is a seasoned financial and operations leader with over 10 years of experience in retail, technology, and finance. Currently serving as Manager II, Marketplace Risk at Walmart, he specializes in financial planning, risk management, and business technology integrations to drive operational efficiency and revenue growth. With a strong background in pricing strategy, marketplace performance, and financial forecasting, Robert has successfully led cross-functional teams to develop scalable solutions that enhance platform integrity and business sustainability. A data-driven strategist with a collaborative leadership style, he is now seeking board and advisory roles where he can leverage his expertise to help organizations optimize financial health, risk mitigation, and strategic growth initiatives.