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

Nick Van Roijs is a results-driven executive with extensive experience in manufacturing, automotive, and business development. As CEO and General Manager of Nooyen USA, he has led strategic growth initiatives, optimizing operations and strengthening the company’s market presence. With a Master’s in Management from Nyenrode Business University and a strong foundation in strategy and innovation, he excels in business development, operational efficiency, and leadership. His diverse experience in aftersales, product management, and customer service has shaped his ability to drive sustainable success. Fluent in Dutch and English, with international expertise, Nick is a dynamic leader committed to fostering growth and innovation in the manufacturing industry.

Mikhail Papovsky is a transformational leader, technologist, and entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience driving strategic execution and digital transformation across industries. As the founder and CEO of Massaro, he has pioneered a disruptive consulting model that delivers breakthrough results in business optimization, mergers, technology implementation, and organizational change. With a deep expertise in aligning technology with business objectives, Mikhail has successfully led high-impact initiatives for Fortune 500 companies and emerging enterprises. A passionate mentor and advisor, he serves on multiple boards and is committed to fostering leadership, innovation, and meaningful connections. His guiding philosophy—"I look for wins in all business models"—reflects his dedication to helping organizations achieve sustainable success.

Seth Tillotson is a seasoned entrepreneur and business strategist dedicated to helping businesses unlock their full financial potential. As the CEO and Founder of **Your Business Consultation**, he specializes in identifying six-figure revenue opportunities without additional marketing spend, making him a trusted advisor to business owners seeking sustainable growth. With expertise spanning business consulting, property management, construction, and e-commerce, Seth has successfully launched and managed multiple ventures, demonstrating his ability to optimize operations and drive profitability. His strong leadership, strategic mindset, and results-driven approach make him a transformative force in the business world.

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.

Chad Jackson is a seasoned financial services technology leader with a proven track record of driving digital transformation, optimizing operations, and building high-performing teams. As the Technology Advisory Leader at Accenture for U.S. financial services, he specializes in modernizing banking, insurance, and capital markets organizations through strategic reinvention and cutting-edge technology solutions. With deep expertise in cloud transformation, payments, legacy modernization, and enterprise architecture, Chad has successfully led large-scale initiatives that enhance competitive advantage and long-term efficiency. His leadership extends beyond execution, fostering collaboration among C-suite executives, technology teams, and industry partners to ensure sustainable growth and innovation in an evolving financial landscape.

I'm excited to share my professional journey and expertise in digital transformation, cloud technology, and payments infrastructure. Over the past 20 years, I've passionately worked to drive growth, technology, and leadership through strategic initiatives, operational excellence, and innovation. I invite you to learn more about my experience and vision—here is my biography.

With over 25 years of experience guiding organizations through complex compliance landscapes, I'm committed to leveraging my expertise to drive growth and safeguard reputations. To learn more about my professional journey, here is my biography.

In today's fast-paced logistics landscape, effective leadership and cohesive teamwork are essential for operational excellence. Strong leaders do more than manage—they inspire trust, facilitate clear communication, and foster a collaborative environment, enabling teams to navigate complex challenges seamlessly. By prioritizing cross-functional collaboration, continuous skill development through targeted training, and leveraging technology such as real-time data systems, logistics leaders empower their teams to make swift, informed decisions. Adopting these strategies not only optimizes immediate performance but builds resilient, adaptable teams positioned for sustained success in an ever-evolving industry.

Tom Schneider is a seasoned financial executive and strategic leader with a proven ability to drive profitability, operational efficiency, and business growth across multiple industries, including manufacturing, finance, e-commerce, and the outdoor sector. With extensive experience as a CEO, CFO, and board member, he has successfully led corporate turnarounds, mergers and acquisitions, and financial restructurings that have resulted in significant revenue increases and EBITDA growth. Known for his analytical expertise, leadership, and ability to foster positive corporate cultures, Tom has played a pivotal role in transforming businesses through strategic planning, innovative financial modeling, and effective communication with executives, investors, and stakeholders.

Christopher Harrington is a seasoned sales and marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. A results-driven leader, he has successfully led go-to-market strategies, optimized category management, and driven revenue growth across North America and international markets, including Mexico, China, and the European Union. With expertise in strategic planning, sales leadership, and operational efficiency, Chris has played a pivotal role in scaling businesses, leading high-performing teams, and executing transformational initiatives. Passionate about accountability, mentorship, and community engagement, he is now seeking board and advisory roles where he can leverage his extensive experience to help companies navigate market complexities and drive sustainable growth.

I am excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my journey across sales, customer success, strategic planning, and leadership in both corporate and nonprofit sectors. My goal is to leverage my experience to help organizations scale, improve customer engagement, and drive meaningful business outcomes.

Rodney Murrell is a dynamic business leader with over 20 years of experience in sales leadership, strategic business development, and workforce solutions. As Division Vice President of Sales at Asure Software, he has played a key role in expanding market reach and fostering long-term client relationships across the United States and the United Kingdom. His expertise in aligning people, technology, and business objectives has consistently driven operational efficiency and revenue growth. With a proven track record at industry-leading organizations such as FM:Systems, SuccessFactors, ADP, and Ceridian, Rodney is recognized for his ability to deliver innovative solutions and build high-performing teams. Beyond his corporate achievements, he is committed to mentorship and leadership development, demonstrating his dedication to empowering individuals and organizations to achieve their goals.

Rex Pugh is a seasoned executive with nearly 30 years of experience in government contracting, procurement, and financial strategy, specializing in defense industry operations. As Vice President of Contracts & Procurement at Semper Valens Solutions, Inc., he has played a key role in scaling contract revenues, optimizing procurement processes, and ensuring regulatory compliance, all while building high-performing teams. His expertise spans contract negotiation, risk management, proposal development, and strategic business growth, with a proven track record of success at major defense contractors. Holding advanced degrees and certifications in business management, federal contracting, and mergers & acquisitions, Rex combines deep industry knowledge with a results-driven leadership approach. Recognized for his ability to drive operational efficiency, mentor professionals, and foster strong government partnerships, he remains a trusted authority in the defense contracting sector.

I am excited to share my professional biography, highlighting my journey in technology leadership, enterprise architecture, and digital transformation across multiple industries. My passion lies in leveraging IT strategy, cybersecurity, and AI-driven solutions to create lasting business value. I look forward to exploring opportunities where I can contribute my expertise to drive growth, efficiency, and innovation.

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.