Guiding Startup Triumph: The Vital Role of Independent Advisors and Platforms in Achieving Success

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.

Sheridan Chambers is a seasoned entrepreneur, technology executive, and angel investor with a proven track record in building, integrating, and securing enterprise applications. As the founder of multiple successful companies, including Denim Group and BrandDefense, he has played a pivotal role in shaping cybersecurity and secure application development. With nearly three decades of experience, he has led organizations through growth, acquisition, and innovation, leveraging his deep expertise in business strategy and enterprise security. Most recently serving as Vice President of Integration & Strategy at Coalfire, Sheridan continues to influence the industry through investments, mentorship, and a passion for fostering technological advancements. Now based in San Antonio, Texas, he remains committed to supporting the next generation of startups while embracing new personal and professional endeavors.

Ava Bakhtiar is a dynamic real estate broker and seasoned business consultant with a proven track record in strategic growth, brand development, and operational efficiency. With experience spanning real estate, marketing, and business development, she has worked with high-profile brands to drive engagement, optimize processes, and increase profitability. Her expertise in fundraising, software efficiency, and regulatory compliance has made her a trusted advisor in multiple industries. Armed with a strong background in media and communications, she seamlessly blends analytical insight with creative strategy to deliver innovative solutions. Known for her professionalism, results-driven approach, and ability to build lasting relationships, Ava continues to make a significant impact in both real estate and business consulting.

I’m excited to share my professional executive biography, which highlights my journey in banking, real estate, mortgage, and financial services over the past 27 years. From founding and scaling companies to leading acquisitions and driving strategic growth, my passion has always been mentorship, innovation, and leadership. I look forward to connecting with like-minded professionals and continuing to contribute to the industry.

Dr. Andrew S. Nevin is a globally recognized economist, strategist, and thought leader with over 40 years of experience spanning finance, economic policy, neuroscience, and corporate governance. As the Research Professor and Inaugural Director of the Brainomics™ Venture at the Center for BrainHealth, University of Texas at Dallas, he pioneers research on the economic value of brain health and its impact on productivity and human flourishing. A Rhodes Scholar with a PhD in Economics from Harvard University, Dr. Nevin has held executive leadership roles across PwC, McKinsey & Company, and United Family Hospitals, shaping global economic policies and corporate strategies. He has advised multinational corporations, financial institutions, and policymakers, particularly in Africa, where he has been instrumental in driving economic transformation and governance reforms. A prolific speaker and media contributor, he has delivered hundreds of engagements worldwide and authored influential publications on economic development, financial sustainability, and corruption. With his unique blend of academic excellence, strategic vision, and leadership experience, Dr. Nevin continues to shape the future of brain health, economic policy, and corporate innovation.

Véronique Nouazé is a visionary leader and Vice President of Technology Development at SLB, where she spearheads innovative low-carbon solutions and drives the company’s digital transformation efforts. With a strategic focus on product portfolio planning and resource management, she has set new standards in sustainable energy technologies. Under her leadership, SLB has fostered a culture of technological advancement, bolstered by targeted workforce training to enhance team capabilities. Passionate about delivering groundbreaking energy solutions, Véronique is equally dedicated to championing gender diversity and fostering inclusion across the energy industry.

I’m excited to share my executive biography, detailing my experience in utilities, construction, and manufacturing, as well as my passion for leadership, business development, and strategic growth. With nearly four decades of expertise in market expansion, sales operations, and operational efficiency, I look forward to new opportunities to contribute to boards and organizations looking for strong leadership and industry insight.

James Massa is a dynamic and results-oriented executive with over 20 years of experience leading organizations across various sectors, including technology, biotech, AI, and non-profits. With dual degrees in Business Administration and Computer Science, Massa has successfully driven operational excellence, revenue growth, and market expansion, managing $500M P&Ls and overseeing teams of up to 400 members. His leadership has led to impressive outcomes, including up to 500% revenue increases, cost reductions, and enhanced profitability. A strategic thinker with expertise in AI, machine learning, and data science, Massa excels at navigating regulatory complexities, fostering partnerships, and leading transformative business initiatives that drive long-term success.

Jeff Barela is a seasoned entrepreneurial leader with over 25 years of experience in database marketing, CRM, and SaaS, known for his ability to build, scale, and successfully exit a profitable marketing technology company. With deep expertise in strategic planning, finance, operations, legal, and sales, he takes a pragmatic, results-oriented approach to business growth and innovation. His leadership in AI-driven marketing technology, agile software development, and stakeholder engagement has positioned him as a trusted advisor in the industry. Currently, Jeff is seeking strategic advisory or part-time consulting opportunities where he can leverage his extensive experience to drive impactful results in the marketing technology sector.

Dwayne Murray is a seasoned leader with a distinguished career in military service, higher education, and strategic program development, currently serving as Deputy Director at Syracuse University’s Office of Veteran and Military Affairs. With a deep commitment to empowering military-connected students, faculty, and staff, he leverages his expertise in operational leadership, policy implementation, and program innovation to create impactful initiatives that foster academic and professional success. His extensive experience as a military officer, educator, and strategic planner has positioned him as a key advocate for veterans’ education and workforce integration, ensuring that military-affiliated individuals receive the resources and support needed to thrive. Through his leadership, Murray continues to drive institutional excellence, bridging the gap between military service and higher education with vision, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to service.

Steve Gordon is a seasoned executive, entrepreneur, and innovator with over 40 years of leadership experience across manufacturing, consumer products, scientific instruments, and food & beverage industries. A proven expert in product development, venture capital, mergers & acquisitions, and automation, he has successfully founded, scaled, and exited multiple companies, including leading Intelligent Bio-Systems to a successful acquisition by Qiagen. Currently serving as CEO of Swish Hoop, Steve continues to drive innovation with patented sports technology solutions. With over 50 patents, extensive board experience, and a passion for mentoring and strategic growth, he is actively seeking advisory and board roles where he can apply his expertise to help organizations navigate innovation, commercialization, and market expansion.

Fadi Farha is a visionary leader with over 15 years of experience in business growth, strategic planning, performance marketing, CRM, and international expansion, driving impactful digital transformation in the eCommerce sector. As **Vice President of Growth at SSENSE**, he leads a team of 25 professionals, managing one of Canada’s largest advertising budgets and overseeing 100% of the company’s sales. His expertise in optimizing advertising efficiency, scaling social and influencer marketing, and implementing AI-driven attribution models has significantly improved customer acquisition and revenue growth. A trusted advisor to the **CEO of Adeptmind AI**, Fadi provides strategic insights on SEM and SEO innovations in retail eCommerce. His data-driven approach, combined with strong relationship-building skills, positions him as a key driver of sustainable business success.

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.

Edward Gravell is a seasoned executive with over 40 years of experience in business development, strategic growth, and leadership across the healthcare, science, sports, and food & beverage industries. As a former senior executive at Cardinal Health and president of MedAssets, he has played a pivotal role in scaling businesses, optimizing supply chains, and forging high-impact strategic partnerships. With deep expertise in mergers & acquisitions, product commercialization, and competitive market positioning, Edward continues to provide advisory services to businesses seeking growth and transformation. A dynamic leader and mentor, he is committed to fostering innovation, driving operational excellence, and guiding organizations toward sustainable success. Known for his resilience and strategic acumen, Edward thrives in complex environments where his insights can make a lasting impact.

Gabriel J. Paoletti, P.E., is a highly accomplished engineering consultant and business advisor with over 45 years of experience in technology and renewable energy systems. Renowned for his expertise in electrical engineering, power systems, and strategic business growth, he has played a key role in developing innovative solutions, optimizing operational efficiency, and driving market expansion for Fortune 500 companies and government agencies. An award-winning leader, Gabe has been recognized for pioneering advancements in electrical power distribution and has delivered insightful presentations at major industry conferences. With extensive international experience and a commitment to integrity, strategic planning, and customer satisfaction, he now seeks board and advisory roles where he can leverage his technical expertise and leadership to help organizations scale and succeed.

Leadership, Emergency Management, Healthcare Operations, Risk Management, Strategic Planning, Crisis Leadership, Lean Six Sigma, Project Management, Business Process Improvement, Veteran Support, Organizational Resilience, Disaster Preparedness, Public Safety, Coaching and Mentorship, Executive Leadership