I’ve spent over 35 years in the retail industry, leading dynamic teams, launching innovative strategies, and driving growth across iconic brands like Neiman Marcus and Hustler Hollywood. My journey has always been fueled by a passion for people, progress, and purposeful leadership. Here is my biography.

Rush Sherman is an innovative and proven executive leader with a distinguished track record in operations management, business development, and client retention across the foodservice and facilities industries. Known for cultivating diverse, high-performing teams and navigating both union and non-union environments, he has led large-scale, multi-unit businesses with precision and strategic vision. His expertise spans national and global account oversight, contract negotiation, and the implementation of sustainable solutions that exceed service expectations. Rush’s dynamic leadership style, combined with his deep regulatory knowledge and commitment to operational excellence, continues to drive transformative results for organizations across decentralized and competitive markets.

Paulo Marchesan is a seasoned executive and transformational leader with over 25 years of global experience driving operational excellence, strategic growth, and financial turnaround across the food, hospitality, and franchising industries. From scaling a single Häagen-Dazs store into a 14-unit franchise to leading a $10B system-sales business at Burger King, Paulo has built a reputation for delivering results through hands-on leadership, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to developing people and organizations. His recent roles in private equity—building value creation teams and orchestrating multi-industry integrations—underscore his unique ability to navigate complexity and drive performance in high-growth environments.

Taylor Yardley is an entrepreneurial executive with a proven track record of driving growth and building long-term value across the energy, hospitality, and service sectors. With a background that spans professional sports, business ownership, and strategic acquisitions, he excels in multi-unit operations, financial oversight, and team leadership. Taylor’s career showcases his adaptability, resilience, and vision, transitioning from a professional golfer to a diversified business leader managing complex, high-volume operations. Through a commitment to operational excellence, strategic reinvestment, and cultivating strong relationships, he continues to lead ventures with integrity, innovation, and a focus on sustainable success.

James Alton Walker is a seasoned retail executive with over 30 years of experience in operations, sales, and strategic leadership. As a results-driven leader, he has successfully managed multi-unit retail operations, overseeing teams of thousands while optimizing profitability and customer experience. His expertise spans P&L management, marketing strategy, team development, and operational excellence. Most recently, as Vice President of Sales and Operations at Advance Auto Parts, James led 225 stores generating over $410 million in annual revenue, consistently exceeding sales and profitability targets. A dedicated mentor and advocate for leadership development, he has played a pivotal role in succession planning and diversity initiatives, including serving as the National Chair of the African American Employee Resource Group. With a strong foundation in business strategy and a passion for mentorship, James now seeks board opportunities where he can contribute his expertise in guiding organizations toward sustainable growth and operational excellence.