After more than 30 years in the marine and transportation industries, I’ve had the privilege of building businesses, leading talented teams, and helping organizations grow through strategic operations and transparent leadership. My journey has taken me from aviation logistics and large-scale operations management to yacht brokerage, vessel consulting, and founding Straight Up Marine Group. I’m excited to continue expanding into new opportunities across marine, aviation, and technology sectors. Here is my biography.

Laurance R. "Larry" Roberts is a seasoned executive and former public company CEO and CFO with over four decades of leadership in the quick service restaurant industry. Best known for his transformative leadership at El Pollo Loco and senior roles at Yum! Brands, Larry brings a rare blend of financial expertise, operational excellence, and strategic vision. His track record includes leading a successful IPO, driving turnaround initiatives, and building high-performing teams across global markets. Now focused on board and advisory roles, Larry offers deep insight into scaling businesses, improving profitability, and navigating complex organizational change.

Jon Schemmel is a results-oriented CEO, investor, and board advisor with nearly two decades of experience leading high-performing businesses across manufacturing, real estate, and private equity. As Co-Founder of SBL Ventures, Jon has scaled a profitable portfolio of semi-passive service businesses while advising companies on mergers, acquisitions, and operational strategy through his consulting firm, Tidewater Consulting. Known for his sharp financial acumen, global experience, and hands-on leadership style, Jon brings a unique blend of entrepreneurial grit and corporate strategy to every venture he joins.

Excited to share my executive biography that highlights my 40-year journey in hospitality and community association leadership, strategic growth, and mentorship. I’m actively exploring opportunities to contribute my experience on advisory or corporate boards in industries I care deeply about.

I’m thrilled to unveil my updated professional biography, showcasing over 40 years of experience in service management, customer experience, and business transformation. My career spans leadership roles at industry giants such as NewTek, Altice USA, and Sprint Nextel, where I've driven strategic initiatives and operational improvements across diverse sectors. From enhancing customer support and call center operations to spearheading transformative projects, my focus has always been on leveraging technology and strategic planning to deliver outstanding results. With a proven track record in both B2B and B2C environments, I'm passionate about creating innovative solutions and fostering growth in dynamic business settings.