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

Daniel Padilla is a seasoned supply chain and logistics executive with over 23 years of experience optimizing transportation networks, reducing costs, and improving service performance across multiple industries, including food distribution, retail, and agriculture. As the **Sr. Director of Logistics and Transportation for Select Milk Producers**, he leads the movement of over **600 daily shipments**, having successfully built the company’s **first dedicated fleet**, now handling **140 daily loads** in the Southwest. Throughout his career, Daniel has spearheaded **technology-driven logistics solutions**, negotiated **multi-million-dollar freight optimizations**, and managed **large-scale distribution operations**, delivering measurable cost savings and efficiency improvements. With a strong foundation in **strategic planning, process optimization, and supplier negotiations**, he has led transformative initiatives at companies like **CSC ServiceWorks, Kuebix, SYSCO, and Ahold**, demonstrating his ability to drive operational excellence. Daniel holds an **MBA in Production and Operations Management** and is recognized for his ability to **align logistics strategies with business goals, mentor high-performing teams, and build lasting industry relationships**.

With over 34 years of experience in engineering, operational strategy, and business growth, I’ve had the privilege of leading teams, managing acquisitions, and driving innovation across multiple industries. My passion lies in helping organizations navigate challenges, optimize performance, and achieve sustainable success. I’m excited to explore new opportunities where my expertise can contribute to strategic growth and governance. Here is my biography.

Neal Loidolt is a distinguished executive and military leader with a proven track record in nonprofit management, strategic operations, and veteran advocacy. As President and CEO of the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV), he has spearheaded efforts to significantly reduce veteran homelessness, expanding the organization’s budget, reach, and impact. A retired Major General in the Minnesota National Guard, Loidolt commanded the 34th Infantry Division, overseeing thousands of soldiers across multiple states and leading critical military and humanitarian missions. With a background in law and executive education from Harvard, he brings a strategic, results-driven approach to leadership, governance, and resource management. His career reflects a steadfast commitment to service, transformation, and meaningful change in both military and civilian sectors.

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.

Ike Anyaoku is a results-driven executive specializing in corporate finance, strategy, and technology, with a track record of driving transformative growth through data-driven decision-making and strategic partnerships. With experience spanning AWS, GE Digital, Deloitte, and Berkshire Hathaway, Ike has led high-value deals, optimized capital investments, and developed innovative frameworks that enhance business efficiency and profitability. His expertise in valuation, risk management, and digital transformation enables organizations to navigate complex challenges and unlock new opportunities. A dynamic communicator and trusted advisor to C-suite leaders, Ike seamlessly integrates financial strategy with cutting-edge technology to deliver sustainable, long-term success.

I am excited to share my professional journey and leadership philosophy with you. With over 35 years of experience in business management, operations, and team development, my passion lies in helping organizations grow by fostering strong leadership and people-driven strategies. My core values of trust, integrity, and collaboration have shaped my career, and I look forward to new opportunities where I can contribute my expertise. Here is my biography.

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.

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.

Sheena Shones is a seasoned financial executive with over 15 years of expertise in financial strategy, risk mitigation, and operational excellence. As a Controller, she has successfully led organizations through financial transformations, post-acquisition integrations, and strategic growth initiatives. Her deep knowledge of GAAP compliance, budgeting, forecasting, and process improvement enables her to optimize financial health and drive business success. With experience spanning manufacturing, service, crypto, AI, and clean energy industries, Sheena is passionate about leveraging technology and data-driven insights to enhance decision-making. She is actively seeking board opportunities where she can apply her expertise in financial leadership, strategic planning, and business transformation to help companies scale and thrive.

Christine E. Wright is a seasoned business strategist and customer experience executive with over 30 years of expertise in data analytics, AI-driven business models, and digital transformation. She has worked with Fortune 500 and 1000 companies across telecommunications, high-tech, retail, and financial services, helping them optimize customer engagement, drive revenue growth, and implement scalable business solutions. As a former executive at Teradata, Convergys, and Sprint, as well as the founder of Customer Contact Insights (CCI), Christine has led multimillion-dollar initiatives, pioneered AI and cloud-based customer strategies, and developed a patented customer lifecycle marketing framework. A recognized thought leader, public speaker, and board member, she continues to leverage her deep industry knowledge and strategic insights to drive innovation, business transformation, and operational excellence.

Sharon Crowder is a dynamic executive leader with a proven track record in project and portfolio management, business transformation, and strategic execution across global enterprises. Known for her ability to drive operational excellence, streamline project delivery, and lead high-impact initiatives, she has successfully built and restructured PMOs, rescued at-risk projects, and optimized vendor management processes to achieve significant cost savings and efficiency gains. With extensive experience engaging executive stakeholders and guiding organizations through complex change, Sharon has led large-scale transformations at PwC, King County, Visa, and Silicon Valley Bank, delivering measurable results that enhance business performance. Her expertise in developing innovative strategies, fostering collaboration, and implementing structured methodologies makes her a trusted leader in driving enterprise-wide success.

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.

Todd Oseth is an accomplished C-level executive with over 20 years of experience driving growth, innovation, and operational excellence across industries such as semiconductors, SaaS, IoT, and enterprise storage. With a track record of launching new products that increased revenues by 30% and profits by 15%, he has led organizations ranging from startups to billion-dollar enterprises, managing teams of up to 2,000 people. Oseth has closed high-profile deals exceeding $100 million, including with global leaders, and has successfully implemented cutting-edge technologies like AI and blockchain to drive business transformation. As a visionary leader with a strong background in engineering, sales, and marketing, he brings deep industry expertise and a passion for innovation, guiding companies through rapid change, market expansion, and sustainable growth.

Sam Byrd is a results-driven executive with over 15 years of experience leading complex operations, optimizing business performance, and driving strategic growth through data-driven decision-making. With expertise in Lean Six Sigma methodologies and a strong engineering and analytical mindset, he has successfully led large-scale teams, improved operational efficiencies, and delivered measurable financial outcomes across multiple industries. Currently serving as Regional President at Sodexo, he oversees a $622 million managed volume, leading initiatives that enhance employee satisfaction, streamline processes, and maximize client value. Throughout his career, Byrd has demonstrated a proven ability to transform underperforming operations, implement innovative strategies, and foster a culture of excellence that drives long-term business success.

I am excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my journey in global operations leadership, AI-driven manufacturing, and strategic business development. With over 30 years of experience across multiple industries, I remain committed to unlocking potential, driving operational excellence, and leading with integrity.

Daryl Griggs is a dynamic business development professional with a strong track record in driving sales growth, optimizing strategic sourcing, and negotiating high-value contracts that enhance profitability. With expertise in staff development, supplier agreements, and acquisition strategies, he excels in aligning product offerings with evolving market trends to maximize business success. His leadership fosters teamwork and operational excellence, ensuring that organizations thrive in competitive industries. Griggs' ability to analyze market data, streamline processes, and execute innovative business strategies makes him a key asset in driving sustainable growth and long-term success.