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

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.

Gregory G. Lee is a seasoned sales and marketing executive with over 30 years of leadership experience in the manufacturing, automotive, trucks/trailers, and aftermarket components industries. Known for his ability to drive revenue growth, optimize sales teams, and execute strategic market expansions, Greg has successfully led high-performing teams across private equity and corporate environments. His expertise spans sales management, business development, P&L oversight, and global dealer channel management. With a strong track record in organizational restructuring and customer engagement, Greg is now seeking board advisory roles where he can leverage his extensive experience to help companies scale, optimize operations, and achieve sustainable growth.

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.

I’m excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my experience in business transformation, private equity-backed growth, and strategic leadership. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about driving sustainable growth, leading high-performing teams, and helping organizations navigate complex market challenges. If you’re interested in learning more about my leadership philosophy, board experience, and business impact.

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.

Elena Jacque is an accomplished corporate attorney with deep expertise in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, and corporate governance. As Counsel in the Technology Companies Group at Goodwin Procter LLP, she advises high-growth companies, private equity sponsors, and boards on complex transactions, including venture financing, public and private M&A, and de-SPAC deals. With a career spanning top law firms and an investment banking legal secondee role at Goldman Sachs, she brings a strategic and global perspective to corporate law. Fluent in multiple languages and recognized in *Best Lawyers in America©* for her excellence in corporate law and M&A, Elena is a trusted advisor known for her precision, integrity, and ability to navigate sophisticated legal and financial landscapes.

With over 40 years of experience in corporate finance, investment banking, and energy advisory, I’ve had the opportunity to work with leading oil and gas companies, shaping financial strategies, executing M&A transactions, and driving long-term value. My board experience and leadership in capital markets have given me a deep understanding of governance, risk management, and corporate structuring. I am always looking for opportunities to add value to the right company. Here is my biography.

David G. Wopschall is a seasoned financial and operational executive with over 25 years of leadership experience in private equity-backed and public companies. As a transformative CFO, he has led over $1 billion in M&A transactions, driving enterprise value and securing high-multiple exits. With expertise spanning high-tech, electronics, satellite communications, SaaS, and manufacturing, he has successfully restructured global organizations, optimized financial operations, and raised over $300 million in capital. A trusted advisor to CEOs and Boards, Wopschall excels in financial strategy, risk management, and operational efficiency. His ability to drive growth, profitability, and corporate transformation has made him a pivotal leader in navigating complex global markets.

I’m excited to share my professional executive biography, which highlights my experience in mergers and acquisitions, business succession planning, and financial strategy. My passion lies in helping business owners navigate transitions, maximize company value, and create sustainable growth strategies. If you’re looking for insights on business exits, valuations, or investor partnerships, I’d love to connect.

I am passionate about real estate finance, investment strategy, and capital markets, and I thrive on building relationships that drive growth and innovation. Over the past several years, I’ve had the opportunity to work on high-value real estate transactions, develop sophisticated financial models, and collaborate with global investors across multiple asset classes. As I continue to expand my expertise, I am eager to explore new opportunities, including board service, to contribute to organizations seeking strategic financial leadership.

Matthew G. Bente is a dynamic financial executive with over 12 years of experience driving strategic growth and operational excellence across industries such as food and beverage, real estate, and financial services. Currently serving as the Head of Finance at Workhorse Brewing Company, Matthew has a proven track record of implementing transformative financial strategies, streamlining operations, and securing capital for growth initiatives. His leadership has consistently delivered measurable results, including significant revenue growth, cost savings, and enhanced organizational efficiency. Guided by his personal mission—"If you're not going to do it right, then don't do it at all"—Matthew is dedicated to helping businesses achieve sustainable success through collaboration, innovation, and financial stewardship.

Excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my 25+ years of financial leadership experience, expertise in M&A, ERP transitions, and strategic planning. I have a proven track record in driving financial efficiency, enhancing operational performance, and leading corporate transformations. I’m actively exploring board opportunities where I can contribute my financial and strategic expertise.

Michael Steingrebe is an accomplished executive with extensive expertise in technology, manufacturing, and clean energy, blending financial acumen with operational leadership to drive transformative growth. With a career spanning over three decades, he has raised over $100 million in private equity, negotiated multi-million-dollar credit facilities, and led international corporate development initiatives, including acquisitions, joint ventures, and intellectual property licensing agreements. Known for his strategic planning, team building, and problem-solving abilities, Michael has a proven track record of enhancing financial performance and operational efficiency across diverse industries. A thought leader and mentor, he has served on public and private advisory boards and lectured at the university level, sharing his insights on turnarounds, mergers and acquisitions, and competitive market positioning. Currently, he leverages his expertise as a Partner at C Squared Solutions LLC and as COO/CFO for ENFusion and Premier Manufacturing, driving innovation and growth in emerging and established markets.

Excited to share my journey as a growth-driven marketing leader, combining strategy, innovation, and leadership to transform businesses and brands. From leveraging AI and data analytics to optimizing customer acquisition strategies, my focus has always been on driving tangible results and fostering success across industries like SaaS, Media, FinTech, and more. I’m passionate about mentoring future marketers, scaling businesses to new heights, and collaborating with incredible teams to achieve bold goals. Let’s continue to push the boundaries of modern marketing and create meaningful impact together!

With over 30 years of experience, Rolf Schultz is a dynamic executive known for his ability to transform organizations through strategic vision, digital innovation, and operational excellence. From leading omnichannel transformations at The RoomPlace and Academy Sports + Outdoors to enhancing digital strategies at Galls, LLC, Rolf has consistently delivered measurable growth and bottom-line impact. As the founder of Personal COO and a dedicated board member, Rolf combines his expertise in strategic planning, e-commerce, and leadership development to drive success for businesses of all sizes. His commitment to mentoring, collaboration, and creating lasting value makes him a trusted advisor and catalyst for growth.

I’m thrilled to share my professional biography, showcasing my journey as a CEO, Executive Creative Director, and Venture Capital Advisor. With over 13 years of experience spanning multiple industries, I’ve had the privilege of working with incredible teams, driving impactful results, and helping businesses achieve their potential.