Marcus Lundy: Purpose-Driven Executive Leader

As supply chains evolve in response to technological innovation, global interconnectivity, and shifting consumer expectations, cultivating the next generation of agile, tech-savvy, and strategic leaders has never been more critical. Future supply chain leaders must blend digital fluency with strong analytical skills, resilience, sustainability-minded thinking, and collaborative leadership to thrive in this dynamic environment. Organizations can ensure long-term success by investing in formal education, experiential learning, mentorship, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. As Gen Z enters the workforce and technological disruptions persist, developing forward-thinking leaders will be key to building resilient, ethical, and future-ready supply chains.

Steven Hall is an accomplished executive leader with 25 years of experience in operations, supply chain management, and strategic growth within the consumer products and transportation industries. With expertise in finance, P&L management, and global logistics, he has successfully led multimillion-dollar operations, driving cost reductions, process improvements, and market expansion. His leadership in supply chain optimization, vendor negotiations, and data-driven decision-making has resulted in significant business transformation and profitability. With international experience across China, India, Vietnam, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, Steven brings a global perspective to operational efficiency and business development. Passionate about innovation and continuous improvement, he is actively seeking board opportunities to leverage his expertise in helping organizations scale, streamline operations, and achieve long-term success.

Brian Dakin, PMP, CIPM, is a seasoned leader in project management, data privacy, and technology solutions within the life sciences industry. As the Principal of Rhombus Consulting, he has driven strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and data governance for pharmaceutical and biotechnology organizations. In his role as President and Head of Operations for a trusted third-party entity, he has led efforts in patient de-identification, achieving HIPAA and SOC2 Type 2 compliance while increasing revenue and profitability. A thought leader and member of the Forbes Coaches Council, Brian also developed **On The Ball Theory**, a framework designed to help individuals unlock their potential and achieve meaningful personal and professional goals. His extensive experience, combined with his commitment to innovation and mentorship, has positioned him as an influential figure in both corporate leadership and personal development.

Vivek Nadadur is a dynamic supply chain and strategy executive with a proven track record of leveraging data, AI, and digital transformation to drive business growth and operational efficiency. With extensive experience across global organizations like Cisco, Johnson & Johnson, and PepsiCo, he has successfully optimized supply chain processes, implemented enterprise-wide digital strategies, and led large-scale business transformations. His expertise in data analytics, strategic planning, and technology-driven solutions positions him as a leader in navigating the complexities of modern supply chains. Committed to innovation, mentorship, and collaboration, Vivek continues to drive impactful change, empowering organizations to achieve sustainable growth in an increasingly digital world.

Brianna Finney, PMP, is a dynamic executive leader with 20 years of experience driving operational excellence, business transformation, and revenue growth in the heavy trucking, dealer operations, and manufacturing industries. As Vice President of Service & Collision Operations at Gordon Truck Centers, she has successfully led expansion efforts, optimized team structures, and implemented strategic initiatives that significantly increased profitability and efficiency. With expertise in cost reduction, workforce development, and data-driven decision-making, Brianna has a proven track record of enhancing business performance while fostering strong partnerships between companies, employees, and stakeholders. Passionate about mentorship and community engagement, she actively supports vocational education and nonprofit initiatives. Brianna is currently seeking board opportunities where she can leverage her strategic vision and leadership experience to drive sustainable growth and organizational success.

Deb Kelly is a pioneering leader in biomedical research, known for her expertise in molecular biophysics, computational modeling, and high-resolution imaging to advance translational medicine. As Executive Director of Structural Oncology LLC and a professor at Penn State University, she has led groundbreaking research in cancer and viral health threats, integrating artificial intelligence and bioinformatics to drive drug discovery and clinical decision-making. With over 15 years of experience managing multidisciplinary teams, securing millions in research funding, and mentoring early-career professionals, Kelly’s work has had a lasting impact on biomedical science. Her strategic leadership, innovative research, and commitment to mentorship continue to shape the future of medical advancements and therapeutic development.

Delano Massey is a transformational media leader with a proven track record of expanding news operations, driving digital innovation, and leading high-impact journalism. As Managing Editor of Axios Local, he has overseen the rapid growth of its newsroom and audience, while previously spearheading CNN’s Race & Equality team during a pivotal moment in American history. His leadership at The Associated Press, CNN, and various local news organizations has positioned him as an expert in investigative reporting, digital strategy, and newsroom management. A dedicated mentor and advocate for diversity in journalism, Massey continues to shape the future of media through his strategic vision and commitment to excellence.

Christi Westman is a seasoned financial executive with extensive expertise in corporate accounting, financial management, and regulatory compliance. As Vice President and Controller at Gate City Bank, she oversees financial operations, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and compliance while driving strategic growth initiatives. With a strong background in public and corporate accounting, including leadership roles at Titan Machinery, Caterpillar, Valspar, and Deloitte, Christi has a proven track record of optimizing financial reporting, managing audits, and leading high-performing teams. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA), she combines technical expertise with strategic vision to enhance profitability and operational effectiveness. Dedicated to mentorship and industry leadership, she actively contributes to professional organizations and community initiatives, reinforcing her commitment to financial excellence and organizational success.

Melany Elicker is a seasoned enterprise leader with over 30 years of experience in supply chain management, ERP implementations, and global business transformation. Specializing in JD Edwards EnterpriseOne, she has successfully led large-scale system rollouts and integrations for industry leaders such as Stryker, Baxter Pharmaceuticals, and Ingersoll Rand. With a strong strategic mindset and deep technical expertise, Melany excels in aligning business objectives with technology solutions to drive operational efficiency, compliance, and scalability. She is a trusted advisor known for her analytical approach, cross-functional leadership, and ability to manage complex onshore and offshore project implementations. Passionate about mentorship and continuous learning, Melany actively contributes her expertise through board advisory roles, helping organizations innovate and grow in an evolving digital landscape.

Have you ever dreamed of leaving behind the 9-to-5 grind to build something of your own—something that gives you the freedom to control your time, your income, and your legacy? From Employee to Entrepreneur: A Guide to Business Ownership is your step-by-step blueprint for making that leap. In this article, I share my personal journey from working in aviation and management to launching successful businesses, and I walk you through the mindset shifts, strategic planning, and tools—like AI and networking—that helped me get there. Whether you're just starting to explore entrepreneurship or ready to take action, this guide offers the insight, encouragement, and practical advice you need to turn your dream into reality.

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.

J. Joseph (Joe) Otte is a seasoned environmental consultant and business leader with over 44 years of experience in environmental due diligence, sustainability, and compliance. Throughout his career, he has guided organizations in the engineering, manufacturing, food, and environmental industries through complex regulatory landscapes, ensuring responsible growth and environmental stewardship. With a strong foundation in water and air quality, hazardous waste management, and remediation, Joe has been a trusted advisor in both the private and public sectors. His leadership extends to nonprofit board service, expert witness testimony, and mentoring executives to see beyond their immediate challenges. Passionate about fostering sustainable business practices, Joe is actively seeking board roles where he can apply his strategic expertise, industry knowledge, and leadership acumen to support organizations in their environmental and operational goals.

With over 60 years of experience in sales leadership, strategic planning, and business transformation, I have dedicated my career to driving growth, mentoring leaders, and optimizing business operations. I am passionate about helping organizations navigate challenges and achieve sustainable success. Whether it's through board leadership, executive coaching, or strategic consulting, I thrive in roles where I can make a meaningful impact. Here is my biography.

Viet Tran is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of leadership experience in the travel, hospitality, and immigration industries. As CEO of Trans Global Travel & Immigration LLC, he has successfully driven business growth through strategic planning, sales leadership, and customer-focused solutions. With expertise in optimizing operations, building high-value partnerships, and mentoring sales teams, Viet has established himself as a leader in international travel and mobility services. His ability to navigate complex markets, foster strong client relationships, and implement innovative strategies continues to shape his success in the industry.

Mentoring young entrepreneurs and aligning them with modern technology are pivotal strategies for fostering innovation and building thriving business ecosystems. Through mentorship, seasoned leaders transfer valuable knowledge, instill critical leadership skills, and boost the confidence of emerging CEOs, preparing them to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Coupled with access to cutting-edge technologies like AI, big data, and digital transformation tools, young entrepreneurs are equipped to streamline operations, make data-driven decisions, and scale their businesses efficiently. This synergy between mentorship and technology not only accelerates individual success but also cultivates resilient, collaborative ecosystems that drive economic growth, sustainability, and long-term innovation.

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.