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    Tag: governance

    David Cook, CPA, CIA, CRMA | Senior Audit Executive | Global Risk Strategist & Process Improvement Leader

    David Cook is a highly respected senior audit executive and global risk strategist with over 37 years of leadership experience in the financial services industry. Known as a “Master Problem Solver,” David has driven transformational change across internal audit, fraud investigation, and enterprise risk functions—both domestically and internationally. As a CPA, CIA, and CRMA, his career is marked by strategic innovation, process improvement, and a deep commitment to mentoring the next generation of leaders. With a passion for helping organizations navigate complexity and enhance governance, David is now focused on board service where he can continue to make a meaningful impact.

    Desire Banse: “Bridging Security, Innovation, and Strategic Leadership.”

    I’m excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my journey in cybersecurity, risk management, AI-driven security solutions, and governance. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working on global security frameworks, research-driven innovations, and enterprise security transformations. My focus remains on helping organizations strengthen their security postures, align compliance with innovation, and prepare for the future of digital security.

    Lara Barlow | Vision to Velocity: Aligning Strategy, Structure & Culture to Deliver on What Matters Most

    Lara Barlow is a seasoned executive leader with 25 years of experience in digital media, publishing, marketing, business transformation, and operations management. She has a proven track record of driving revenue growth, optimizing business operations, and leading high-performing teams in small to mid-cap companies across the digital publishing, media, and travel industries. As a former vice president at TVO and general manager & acting COO at Travelzoo, Lara has successfully led strategic turnarounds, expanded global partnerships, and executed digital-first initiatives that increased engagement and revenue. Her expertise spans fundraising, governance, digital marketing, and strategic partnerships, making her a valuable asset to companies looking to scale and innovate. With board experience at 360°kids, an international MBA in marketing and strategy from Schulich School of Business, and leadership training from Kellogg School of Management and the Richard Ivey School of Business, Lara is well-equipped for governance roles. She is fluent in English, proficient in Spanish, and has international experience across Europe and APAC, strengthening her ability to lead global business initiatives. Lara is now seeking corporate board opportunities where she can leverage her expertise in business transformation, operational strategy, and digital growth to help organizations scale, innovate, and achieve sustainable success.

    Dr. C.J. Walker Waite, Ph.D., PMP, CCA | Transformational Project Leader | Business Strategist | Organizational Change Expert

    Dr. C.J. Walker Waite, Ph.D., PMP, CCA, is a transformational project leader and strategic business consultant with over 35 years of experience driving organizational change and enterprise agility. As Executive Vice President of ThePraxisEdge.com, she has successfully led multi-billion-dollar digital transformation initiatives, guiding Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and multinational corporations through complex change landscapes. A former International Board Director of the Project Management Institute (PMI), Dr. Walker Waite is a globally recognized expert in governance, business strategy, and project leadership. A sought-after speaker and published author, she has delivered keynote presentations and contributed extensively to thought leadership in organizational transformation and business sustainability. Holding a Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior and Development from The George Washington University, she combines academic rigor with real-world expertise to empower organizations to navigate change, optimize performance, and achieve long-term strategic growth.

    Susan C. Robinson: Shifting Thinking, Elevating Potential and Inspiring Action.

    I am passionate about driving transformational change through governance, leadership, and strategic impact. With over 25 years of experience across corporate, nonprofit, and global institutions, I thrive at the intersection of innovation and mission-driven success. Whether leading governance initiatives, speaking on thought leadership stages, or advising executive teams, I strive to elevate potential and create lasting impact. Here is my biography.

    Elizabeth M. Troll | Executive Leader | Quality Assurance & Compliance | Board Advisor

    Elizabeth M. Troll is a seasoned executive with over 42 years of global leadership in quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and governance within the pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, and healthcare industries. Renowned for her expertise in Quality Management Systems (QMS), vendor oversight, inspection readiness, and leadership development, Liz has played a pivotal role in shaping compliance frameworks that align regulatory standards with business efficiency. She has led quality and compliance initiatives at Endpoint Clinical, Novan Inc., QuintilesIMS, and Otsuka, driving strategic improvements and fostering a culture of operational excellence. A dynamic speaker and mentor, Liz is passionate about developing future leaders, advancing industry best practices, and supporting organizations in achieving regulatory success. With a strong commitment to integrity, respect, and continuous improvement, she seeks to leverage her expertise through board service and advisory roles, helping companies navigate complex regulatory landscapes and drive sustainable growth.

    Linda Prager: A Visionary Leader in Risk and Compliance. Driving Sustainable and Scalable Solutions in Financial Services.

    I am excited to share my executive biography, detailing my journey in financial risk management, compliance, and governance. With over 30 years of experience across top global institutions, I have built sustainable risk frameworks, led regulatory compliance initiatives, and optimized operational resilience. I am now looking to leverage my expertise by serving on a board and contributing to strategic risk governance.

    Alan E. Waite | Visionary Leader in Executive Coaching, Project Management, and Strategic Change

    Alan E. Waite is a visionary executive, strategist, and leadership expert with over four decades of experience spanning government, education, entrepreneurship, and organizational transformation. As the CEO of Praxis Consulting, Inc., he has pioneered innovative methodologies, including Transformational Project Leadership (TPL) and Integrity-Centered Decision-Making (ICDM), to drive sustainable change and ethical decision-making in business and government. A seasoned educator, Alan serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, shaping future leaders in project management and organizational leadership. His extensive career includes consulting for Fortune 500 companies, co-founding an environmental technology firm, and leading nonprofit initiatives to support addiction recovery. An accomplished author and speaker, Alan has contributed to historical and business publications, with his latest book, To a Moral Certainty, set for release in Spring 2025. Fluent in Spanish and proficient in German, he brings a global perspective to leadership, strategy, and governance. Dedicated to integrity, mentorship, and transformational change, Alan seeks to leverage his wealth of experience to help organizations innovate and grow with purpose.

    Theodore Roknich: Enterprise Risk and Audit Executive with Expertise in Financial Services

    Theodore Roknich is a seasoned enterprise risk and audit executive with over 25 years of experience in financial services, specializing in risk management, internal audit, regulatory compliance, and financial controls. Throughout his career, he has built and led audit and risk management functions, ensuring compliance, strengthening governance, and mitigating financial and operational risks. As a trusted advisor to executive leadership and board committees, he has successfully developed risk management strategies, integrated data analytics into audit processes, and enhanced regulatory compliance frameworks. Currently serving as Enterprise Risk Manager at Horizon Bank, he continues to provide strategic oversight, aligning risk management with business objectives and regulatory expectations. His leadership and expertise have played a critical role in improving financial oversight, operational resilience, and governance within the institutions he has served.

    Dr. Denis Ortega: Transformational Leader in Human Capital Strategy and Organizational Change.

    I am excited to share my professional executive biography, highlighting my journey in leadership, workforce transformation, and strategic human capital management. With 25 years of experience across multiple industries, I am passionate about fostering high-performance cultures, mentoring leaders, and driving meaningful organizational change. I look forward to new opportunities to contribute at the board level, leveraging my expertise in strategic planning, executive coaching, and leadership development.

    Martena Kusz | Strategic Visionary | Business Transformation Leader | Board Advisor

    Martena Kusz is a visionary executive with over 20 years of experience in business transformation, strategy execution, and operational excellence across consulting and technology industries. Known for her ability to foster innovation and collaboration, she has successfully led organizations through large-scale initiatives that have generated significant revenue growth and enhanced operational efficiency. With deep expertise in risk assessment, financial optimization, and digital transformation, Martena helps businesses navigate complex challenges while positioning them for long-term success. Her strategic mindset, expansive network of business leaders and investors, and commitment to fostering high-performing teams make her an invaluable asset to organizations seeking governance, leadership, and sustainable growth.

    Brently L. Cooper: Experienced Technology Executive & Product Development Leader

    Brently L. Cooper is an accomplished technology executive with over 35 years of experience in product development, business transformation, and engineering leadership. With a distinguished career spanning Fortune 500 companies, he has played a pivotal role in shaping global IT hardware solutions, leading high-performing teams, and driving innovation. Brently has held executive roles at Dell EMC, overseeing next-generation server development and managing strategic partnerships with industry leaders such as Intel and AMD. His expertise in corporate strategy, product development, and global operations has positioned him as a key driver of technological advancements. As the founder of BC Consulting, LLC, Brently continues to provide expert guidance to organizations navigating complex engineering and business challenges. Passionate about innovation and operational excellence, he is now seeking board roles where he can leverage his vast experience to help companies scale, optimize, and thrive in an evolving technology landscape.

    Christopher M. Cannon, CPA, MBA | Transformational Financial Leader Driving Strategic Growth and Innovation

    Christopher M. Cannon, CPA, MBA, is a seasoned financial executive with 15 years of leadership experience in financial services and insurance. Specializing in financial planning and analysis, corporate finance, and risk management, he has successfully led enterprise-wide financial transformations, optimized financial performance, and implemented innovative financial systems. As senior executive director of personal lines and operations at CSAA Insurance Group, Chris oversees revenue forecasting, expense planning, and strategic financial initiatives that drive corporate decision-making. With a strong foundation in M&A valuation, financial modeling, and governance, he is actively seeking board opportunities where his expertise in finance and strategic oversight can contribute to organizational growth and success.

    Josh D. Coleman | Visionary Energy & Manufacturing Leader Driving Strategic Growth and Operational Excellence

    Josh D. Coleman is a seasoned executive with 40 years of leadership experience in energy, manufacturing, and operational efficiency. As co-founder and partner of L5E, LLC, he played a key role in scaling the company from a small startup to a thriving energy advisory firm serving over 4,000 clients across North America. With a deep understanding of deregulated energy markets, risk management, and strategic procurement, Josh has consistently delivered multi-million-dollar cost savings and efficiency improvements. His expertise spans business growth, team leadership, and international market expansion, making him a sought-after advisor and board member. A strong communicator and industry speaker, Josh is dedicated to helping organizations navigate complex challenges while driving sustainable and profitable outcomes.

    Stephen D. Harrell | Visionary Financial Strategist and Digital Infrastructure Leader

    Stephen D. Harrell is a seasoned financial and operational executive with nearly 40 years of experience in corporate finance, M&A, digital infrastructure, and private equity-backed growth strategies. As senior vice president and chief financial officer at Expedient, he played a pivotal role in scaling the company’s revenue from $75 million to $225 million and increasing EBITDA by over 350%, leading to a successful acquisition by InfraBridge. With a deep background in high-tech industries, including leadership roles at Texas Instruments and Akustica, Stephen has driven strategic transformations, optimized financial structures, and executed high-value exits. His extensive international experience in Japan and Europe, combined with his expertise in cloud computing and data center operations, positions him as a highly valuable board candidate for companies looking to scale, enhance profitability, and navigate complex financial landscapes.

    William D. Crowe: Trial Attorney and Founding Partner of Crowe, Rowe & Dunn

    William D. Crowe is a seasoned trial attorney and the founding partner of Crowe, Rowe & Dunn, a boutique law firm in Boston specializing in civil litigation, family law, probate litigation, and criminal defense. With over 47 years of legal experience, Bill has successfully represented individuals, families, and corporations in high-stakes legal matters, including first-degree murder trials, complex business disputes, and high-net-worth divorces. His expertise in crisis management, contract negotiation, and strategic litigation has made him a trusted advocate in both state and federal courts. Beyond the courtroom, Bill has been a trial practice instructor, a public speaker on legal issues, and an active community leader, serving on various boards and charitable committees. As he transitions from intensive trial practice, he is seeking board service opportunities where his legal acumen, strategic insight, and leadership experience can provide value to organizations in need of expert guidance.