Tag: Global Experience
Brent Blum: Visionary Leader in Spatial Computing, Augmented and Virtual Reality.
Brent Blum is an accomplished leader in innovation and technology, specializing in augmented and virtual reality, spatial computing, and emerging tech strategies. With over 20 years of professional experience, he has a proven track record of driving growth, fostering innovation, and building businesses across industries such as technology, telecom, automotive, and defense. As a globally recognized thought leader, Brent has delivered innovation-focused presentations in over 25 countries, inspiring organizations to embrace transformative solutions. Passionate about advancing technology and entrepreneurship, he brings a wealth of expertise and a forward-thinking mindset to any organization he partners with.
Christopher Barnes: Experienced Automotive and Manufacturing Executive
Christopher Barnes is a dynamic executive leader with 34 years of experience in automotive manufacturing, operations management, and lean systems implementation. A Six Sigma Black Belt and strategic business innovator, he has successfully led large-scale manufacturing plants, optimized operational efficiencies, and negotiated complex labor agreements. Throughout his career at Ford Motor Company of Canada Ltd., he has overseen multimillion-dollar budgets, driven cultural transformation, and built high-performing teams. With international exposure across North America and Europe, Christopher is a results-driven leader who thrives on improving business models and fostering continuous growth. Now exploring board service opportunities, he seeks to leverage his expertise in strategic planning, operational excellence, and leadership development to contribute to forward-thinking organizations.
Aparna Srinivasan: Visionary Technology Executive, Product Innovator, and Board Advisor
Aparna Srinivasan is a seasoned technology executive and product strategist with over 25 years of experience driving innovation, business growth, and digital transformation across Fortune 500 companies and high-growth startups. With expertise in digital commerce, AI/ML, blockchain, and financial risk analysis, she has successfully led product initiatives generating over $500 million in annual recurring revenue. A visionary leader, Aparna has reported to the C-suite, presented to board members, and co-owned P&L responsibilities, demonstrating her ability to scale businesses, develop market-leading strategies, and foster high-performing teams. Passionate about mentoring women in technology and advocating for STEM education, she is actively seeking board opportunities where she can leverage her expertise in product innovation, financial strategy, and executive leadership to drive meaningful impact.
Messias Pedreiro Neto: Seasoned Financial Executive and Strategic Advisor
Messias Pedreiro Neto is a seasoned financial executive with over 30 years of experience in corporate finance, investment banking, and strategic advisory. As a Partner at Thoreos Consultoria, he specializes in guiding mid-cap and large companies through transaction structuring, growth strategies, and financial optimization. With a proven track record that includes leading Brazil’s largest multi-source project finance initiative and structuring over USD 1.5 billion in upcoming investments, Messias is renowned for his expertise in governance, venture capital, and international financial strategies. Fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, he brings a global perspective to every endeavor, making him a trusted advisor and transformative leader in the financial sector
Jim Wilson: Senior Library Advisor, Sales and Marketing Leader, Board Candidate
Jim Wilson is a seasoned leader with over 40 years of expertise in library automation, sales, and marketing. As a Senior Library Advisor at Niche Academy, Jim has dedicated his career to helping public libraries enhance their online systems, making them more accessible and impactful for both patrons and staff. A co-founder of Dynix and SirsiDynix, he has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing library technology, earning a global reputation for driving growth and fostering innovation. With a deep commitment to advancing the library industry, Jim combines strategic vision, technical expertise, and exceptional communication skills to deliver transformative results.
Jaco Pretorius: A Visionary Leader in Technology and Business Innovation
Jacob Pretorius is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of global experience spanning industries such as sports technology, renewable energy, and aerospace. Renowned for his expertise in market validation, product development, and commercialization, Jacob has successfully guided products from concept to market while securing funding from both private investors and government sources. A technologist at heart with a keen understanding of business challenges, he has a proven track record of driving innovation, managing product lifecycles, and fostering growth. Fluent in multiple languages and with ties across continents, Jacob brings a strategic and cross-cultural perspective to every endeavor. His passion for mentoring organizations and individuals stems from a desire to share his wealth of knowledge and help others avoid common pitfalls, ensuring a legacy of success and innovation.
Jonathan Victor Cohen: Executive Leader, Private Equity & Venture Capital Investor and Board Advisor
Jonathan Cohen is an accomplished executive with over 25 years of global experience in industrial, manufacturing, distribution, B2B, and home services sectors. Having worked and lived in six countries, with extensive experience in Asia and Europe, Cohen has a proven track record of driving growth, innovation, and sustainability initiatives across diverse industries. He is known for his integrity, strategic vision, and ability to empower teams to achieve outstanding results.
Throughout his career, Cohen has been a key player in scaling businesses, developing strong market strategies, and leading organizational transformations. His expertise spans sustainability, packaging, automotive, branding, and pricing, making him a sought-after keynote speaker at global conferences. Fluent in French and with conversational skills in German and Spanish, Cohen’s international exposure enables him to effectively navigate complex global markets and foster cross-cultural collaboration.
Currently an angel investor in four companies, Jonathan is now seeking to expand his board experience in the United States, leveraging his wealth of knowledge to help businesses drive top-line growth and navigate new opportunities in a rapidly changing world.
Tracey Manuel, PhD, CISO, CISSP, SPC: Leading with Integrity; Treating Others as I Wish to Be Treated.
I'm excited to share my professional journey, highlighting over 25 years of experience in IT leadership, cybersecurity, and organizational development. From leading global teams to empowering underserved communities, my work has been driven by a commitment to excellence and innovation. Here is my biography.
Kirk Michealson: Strategic Leader and Board Advisor with 45 Years of Excellence
Kirk Michealson is a seasoned executive with over 45 years of experience in leadership, strategic planning, and operational excellence across government and commercial sectors. Renowned for his integrity and mentorship, Kirk has made significant contributions through his expertise in Lean Six Sigma, project management, and analytical problem-solving. An accomplished communicator, he has delivered impactful lectures and presentations, authored a textbook chapter, and published articles in industry magazines. With international exposure spanning Europe, Asia, and North America, Kirk brings a global perspective to every challenge, leveraging his extensive experience to drive measurable results and foster collaboration.
Nils Alstad: Transformational Leader in Automation and Global Innovation
Nils Alstad is a globally recognized leader in operations and automation, with a proven track record of innovation and strategic vision. His career highlights include steering global teams, earning prestigious industry awards, and driving transformative growth across technology and supply chain sectors.
Scott Abbott: Experienced Leader in Healthcare, Tech, Biotech, and Pharma Industries
Scott Abbott is a seasoned executive with over 26 years of experience across healthcare, tech, biotech, and pharma industries. Known for his integrity and results-driven leadership, Scott has a proven track record in business development, marketing strategy, product launches, clinical trials, and operations management. His global experience, including work in the US, Canada, and Europe, positions him as an invaluable asset for startups and established companies alike. Scott’s strategic acumen has helped numerous organizations navigate market complexities, drive growth, and achieve operational success. As a thought leader, he has authored peer-reviewed publications and shared his expertise at major industry events, always delivering clear and impactful insights.
Meg Stevens: Executive Leader in Organizational Development and Strategic Consulting
Meg Stevens is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience in organizational development, R&D, management consulting, and strategic leadership. Known for her integrity and collaborative approach, Meg has consistently demonstrated the ability to drive meaningful change within organizations, guiding senior leaders and teams through complex transformations. Her expertise spans diverse industries including agriculture, bio science, and mental health, with a strong focus on leadership development, team building, and M&A. Meg has a proven track record in aligning business strategies with operational goals, ensuring sustainable growth and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. She has co-authored journal articles, contributed to blogs, and delivered impactful presentations on organizational structure and development. With global experience across Europe, APAC, Latin America, and North America, Meg is now seeking opportunities to leverage her extensive background in a board capacity to help organizations achieve their strategic objectives.
Juan Grobler: Executive Leader in IT Strategy, Governance, and Risk Management
Juan Grobler is a dynamic executive with over 26 years of global experience in IT strategy, governance, security, risk management, and business growth. Known for his integrity and strong leadership, Juan has successfully scaled and sold multiple startups, providing him with a wealth of knowledge in M&A, project management, and IT transformations across diverse industries. His career spans multiple continents, including the UK, Europe, South Africa, the UAE, and the US, where he has led large-scale initiatives and presented at key industry events. Passionate about giving back, Juan is an advocate for supporting charitable projects and believes in the power of mentorship to foster growth and innovation. With a deep understanding of both the technical and business aspects of his field, Juan is now focused on using his expertise to guide organizations in their growth journeys, leveraging his wealth of experience in advisory and board roles.
Nina Patel Lahanis: Senior Executive in Life Sciences, Business Development, and Operations Leadership
Nina Patel Lahanis is a senior executive with over 30 years of experience in the biopharma industry, specializing in pharmacovigilance, regulatory affairs, and operational management. Currently serving as Vice President at PrimeVigilance, Nina leads strategic initiatives to ensure compliance across the Americas, optimizing resources and driving technological innovation. Throughout her career, she has excelled in business development, client relationship management, and cross-functional leadership, with a proven track record of driving revenue growth and operational efficiencies. Nina’s global experience spans multiple regions, including India, Canada, and the UK, and her multilingual skills enable her to build strong, diverse relationships. She is deeply committed to advancing regulatory safety and compliance and is eager to lend her expertise to boards and advisory roles in the biopharma and life sciences sectors.
Tamra Karabeber: Management Consultant and IT Leader
Tamra Karabeber is a seasoned management consultant with over 17 years of experience, specializing in the retail and consumer packaged goods (CPG) sectors. Known for her unwavering integrity and commitment to fostering positive relationships, Tamra has built a reputation as a trusted partner in driving organizational success. Her expertise spans management consulting, supply chain optimization, and ERP system integration, where she has consistently delivered innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and adaptability.
In her role as an IT leader, Tamra excels in strategic decision-making, leveraging her comprehensive knowledge to implement transformational change within complex business environments. Her ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders across various levels has enabled her to align teams with organizational goals and drive collaborative initiatives that yield measurable results. With international experience in Europe and Asia, Tamra brings a global perspective to her work, enhancing her ability to navigate diverse cultural contexts and foster effective communication.
Tamra's family-centric values shine through in her leadership style, where she emphasizes collaboration and empowerment. As she seeks to serve on a board, she aims to share her extensive knowledge and lessons learned from managing multimillion-dollar projects, ensuring that organizations build the right teams and partnerships to thrive in today’s dynamic market landscape.
Sandra Groscost: Senior Project Manager and IT Solutions Expert
Sandra Groscost is a seasoned Senior Project Manager with over 25 years of experience in IT project management, portfolio oversight, and systems integration for Fortune 500 companies and financial institutions. A certified PMP with a strong background in both agile and traditional frameworks, she has led multimillion-dollar initiatives across various sectors, specializing in infrastructure implementation and process optimization. Known for her strategic leadership, Sandra excels in enhancing operational efficiency, aligning stakeholder objectives, and driving measurable outcomes. Her global experience, including key projects in the U.S. and Japan, underscores her ability to manage complex, large-scale programs while fostering innovation and continuous improvement.