Avijit Barua is a results-driven investment professional with extensive expertise in quantitative equity strategies, risk management, and asset allocation. With over a decade of experience in portfolio management and a strong foundation in military leadership, he combines analytical precision with strategic vision to optimize investment performance. Currently serving as Portfolio Manager at OPERS, he has successfully developed and managed systematic equity strategies, ESG and Climate portfolios, and innovative risk management solutions. His expertise in derivatives, capital management, and financial modeling has contributed to outperforming market benchmarks and strengthening institutional investment capabilities. With a proven track record of leadership and innovation, Avijit Barua continues to drive strategic growth in the financial industry.

Brent Jones, CFA, is a globally respected investment leader with nearly four decades of experience across fixed income and equities in both public and private markets. Known for his strategic foresight and deep technical knowledge, Brent has managed multibillion-dollar portfolios, led global investment teams, and launched high-impact emerging market strategies. His career spans senior roles at GE Asset Management and Citi Private Bank, where he specialized in portfolio management, client strategy, and product innovation. A board member and advisor to several international companies, Brent is equally committed to social impact through his work with nonprofits focused on education and economic empowerment in developing regions.

Madison T. Woodward III is a seasoned geoscientist and corporate leader with over 43 years of experience in oil and gas exploration, field development, and asset acquisitions. With a proven track record of leading successful discoveries in the Gulf of Mexico and Southeast Asia, he has played a pivotal role in shaping exploration strategies, portfolio management, and emerging energy solutions such as carbon capture and lithium production. His leadership extends beyond technical expertise, having served in executive roles, guided international ventures, and contributed to board-level decision-making. A respected speaker and advisor, Madison combines deep industry knowledge with a strategic, common-sense approach, making him a valuable asset to companies navigating the evolving energy landscape.

John Contino is a distinguished financial expert with over 41 years of experience in structured finance, mortgage analysis, and investment advisory. As the founder and principal of Sperlinga Advisory LLC, he has guided institutional clients through complex financial landscapes, specializing in mortgage-backed securities, mortgage servicing rights, and litigation support. His strategic foresight and risk management expertise have been instrumental in successfully navigating market volatility, including his leadership in de-levering investment funds ahead of the 2007 mortgage crisis. A respected expert witness, John has provided testimony in high-profile financial litigation cases, further showcasing his ability to analyze and communicate intricate financial matters. With a strong foundation in investment strategy and structured finance, he is now focused on leveraging his extensive expertise to help businesses grow and thrive in today’s evolving financial environment.

I'm excited to share my professional executive biography, highlighting my 30 years of expertise in financial services, market data, and strategic sourcing. My journey has taken me through leadership roles at global institutions, vendor negotiations, and contributions to industry thought leadership. I’m always looking for ways to drive strategic growth and make an impact on the financial industry.

Lisa Hollingshead is a seasoned commercial lending executive with extensive experience in portfolio management, credit risk assessment, and relationship development. As Vice President, Portfolio Manager II at Community West Bank, she plays a pivotal role in managing loan portfolios, ensuring compliance, and fostering client relationships to support business growth. With a strong background in SBA, USDA, and EDA loan programs, Lisa combines financial expertise with a strategic approach to risk management and business development. Her commitment to customer service, teamwork, and operational excellence has made her a trusted leader in the financial industry.

Steven Gamm is a dynamic and results-driven executive with over 25 years of experience leading technology delivery and finance transformation initiatives across retail and financial systems. With a proven track record of managing large cross-functional teams, he specializes in driving strategic initiatives, implementing Agile methodologies, and optimizing operational efficiency to achieve sustainable growth. His expertise in program management, risk management, and value realization has enabled organizations to enhance transparency, improve delivery reliability, and align technology solutions with business objectives. Committed to fostering a people-first workplace, Steven is dedicated to developing top industry talent, strengthening collaboration, and ensuring the successful execution of complex enterprise programs.

Maryam Nourbakhsh is a seasoned project management leader with over 18 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, specializing in strategic operations, clinical quality, and global regulatory compliance. She has a proven track record of driving complex initiatives, optimizing resource allocation, and implementing data-driven decision-making frameworks to enhance portfolio planning and operational efficiency. Currently serving as Director of Project Management at Bristol Myers Squibb, she spearheads innovative methodologies, fosters cross-functional collaboration, and ensures alignment with corporate objectives. With expertise spanning oncology, immunology, and hematology, Maryam has successfully led high-impact projects at leading pharmaceutical organizations, leveraging her knowledge in clinical trials, governance structures, and process improvement. Holding an MBA in Pharmaceutical Marketing and certifications in Lean Six Sigma and Change Management, she is a strategic thinker committed to innovation, operational excellence, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Adam S. Plotkin is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience in financial services, investment management, and compliance. A strategic leader with a strong focus on regulatory oversight, risk management, and client engagement, Adam has successfully guided organizations through growth, operational improvements, and industry challenges. His expertise spans RA money management, SEC evaluation, and portfolio oversight, making him a trusted advisor in the investment sector. Beyond his corporate achievements, Adam is a dedicated mentor and community leader, actively serving on boards and committees, particularly within the Jewish community. A passionate advocate for fostering creativity and empowering others, Adam is now seeking board and advisory roles where he can leverage his deep expertise to help organizations evolve and thrive.

I’m excited to share my professional biography as I explore new opportunities to serve on for-profit boards. With over 30 years of leadership experience in financial services, investment management, and corporate strategy, I am eager to bring my expertise to organizations seeking strong governance and strategic direction.

I am excited to share my professional journey and expertise in corporate finance, investment banking, and strategic investment management. My experience spans capital markets, structured finance, and business growth strategies, allowing me to navigate complex financial landscapes and drive long-term value. Here is my biography.

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.

Excited to share my professional journey, spanning over 25 years in asset management, investment strategy, and financial leadership. My experience in macroeconomic research, portfolio construction, and client advisory has shaped my perspective on markets and investing. Passionate about financial education and sharing insights through public speaking and media engagements. Here is my biography.

Parker Laville is a highly accomplished corporate and investment banking executive with over 37 years of experience in capital markets, structured finance, and lending. Throughout his career, he has successfully led teams, managed multi-billion-dollar portfolios, and provided strategic financial solutions across industries including energy, oil and gas, renewable energy, and corporate finance. Currently serving as managing director at Impact Strategic Funding, Parker specializes in debt financing for lower middle-market companies, leveraging his deep expertise in risk management, financial structuring, and client relationship development. A dedicated leader with international experience, he has worked with top global financial institutions and served on advisory boards, bringing a wealth of knowledge to governance and strategic decision-making. Now transitioning into board service, Parker is committed to using his extensive expertise to guide organizations in achieving financial stability, sustainable growth, and long-term success.

I’m excited to share my professional journey, spanning over 36 years in finance, investment management, and leadership. From guiding clients through wealth-building strategies to mentoring young professionals and serving on various boards, my career has been driven by a passion for helping others succeed. Here is my biography.

With over 34 years of experience in real estate, luxury travel, and manufacturing, I have built a career centered on strategic leadership, operational excellence, and client relations. My passion for driving change, optimizing investments, and leading high-performing teams has allowed me to make a significant impact in every organization I’ve worked with. If you’d like to learn more about my journey, here is my biography.