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

With over 30 years of experience in military leadership, international security, and humanitarian operations, I’m now exploring opportunities to serve on boards and contribute my expertise to organizations that prioritize safety, resilience, and strategic growth. I believe in leadership through service and collaboration, and I'm passionate about supporting sectors aligned with security, logistics, and crisis response. Here is my biography.

Michael A. Cacouris is a seasoned financial executive with over 35 years of experience in corporate finance, investment management, and restructuring. With a strong foundation in both fixed income and equity markets, he has led financial turnarounds, scaled businesses, and optimized capital structures across financial services, manufacturing, and technology startups. As a former co-CEO, hedge fund leader, and municipal finance advisor, Michael brings a unique blend of strategic vision, operational expertise, and risk management acumen to organizations seeking growth and stability. Fluent in French and Greek with international experience in Europe, he is a dynamic leader committed to driving financial and operational excellence.

Theodore Roknich is a seasoned enterprise risk and audit executive with over 25 years of experience in financial services, specializing in risk management, internal audit, regulatory compliance, and financial controls. Throughout his career, he has built and led audit and risk management functions, ensuring compliance, strengthening governance, and mitigating financial and operational risks. As a trusted advisor to executive leadership and board committees, he has successfully developed risk management strategies, integrated data analytics into audit processes, and enhanced regulatory compliance frameworks. Currently serving as Enterprise Risk Manager at Horizon Bank, he continues to provide strategic oversight, aligning risk management with business objectives and regulatory expectations. His leadership and expertise have played a critical role in improving financial oversight, operational resilience, and governance within the institutions he has served.

Martena Kusz is a visionary executive with over 20 years of experience in business transformation, strategy execution, and operational excellence across consulting and technology industries. Known for her ability to foster innovation and collaboration, she has successfully led organizations through large-scale initiatives that have generated significant revenue growth and enhanced operational efficiency. With deep expertise in risk assessment, financial optimization, and digital transformation, Martena helps businesses navigate complex challenges while positioning them for long-term success. Her strategic mindset, expansive network of business leaders and investors, and commitment to fostering high-performing teams make her an invaluable asset to organizations seeking governance, leadership, and sustainable growth.

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.

Ben Renz is a seasoned cybersecurity leader with a proven track record of strengthening digital security frameworks, mitigating risks, and driving strategic innovation in information security. As the Chief Information Security Officer at BroadStreet Partners, he leads enterprise-wide security initiatives, ensuring robust protection against evolving cyber threats. With extensive experience in network engineering, software development, and risk management, Ben has held key leadership roles at North Risk Partners and UnitedHealth Group, where he implemented advanced security strategies and operational efficiencies. His technical expertise, strategic mindset, and ability to communicate complex security solutions make him a trusted leader in safeguarding organizations in today’s digital landscape.

Excited to share my professional executive biography! With over 20 years of experience in biotech program management, drug development, and regulatory strategy, I have had the privilege of leading cross-functional teams, guiding early-stage startups, and ensuring successful clinical execution. If you're looking for strategic leadership, operational excellence, and industry expertise, I’d love to connect and explore opportunities to collaborate.

Thomas Tutaj, MBA, CHC, CHPC, is a seasoned compliance and business operations leader with over 30 years of experience in healthcare, insurance, and financial management. Known for his integrity and commitment to fostering ethical practices, Thomas has a proven track record of designing and implementing effective compliance programs across Medicare, Medicaid, and managed care environments. His strategic vision, combined with deep regulatory expertise, enables him to align compliance initiatives with organizational goals, ensuring both operational excellence and regulatory adherence. A skilled communicator and relationship builder, Thomas leverages his leadership to drive business success while maintaining the highest standards of accountability and transparency.

In today’s volatile and interconnected business environment, risk isn’t just an obstacle—it's an inevitable constant. Companies that embrace proactive risk mitigation as a strategic priority are not merely avoiding potential pitfalls; they are positioning themselves for sustained growth. By systematically identifying, assessing, and addressing risks—ranging from cybersecurity threats to shifting ESG expectations—organizations can preserve resources, build stakeholder trust, and foster a culture of accountability. When integrated into the broader business strategy, this forward-thinking approach not only protects against disruptions but also unlocks opportunities for bold innovation and market leadership.

Richard Paradis is an accomplished cybersecurity executive with extensive experience in both military and private sectors. With a strong background in risk management, infrastructure protection, and compliance, Richard has played a pivotal role in leading cybersecurity strategies that protect critical assets and ensure organizational resilience. His leadership spans over two decades, including a distinguished career as a senior officer in the U.S. Army, where he shaped national security objectives and tackled complex cybersecurity challenges. Richard's expertise is grounded in a deep understanding of the evolving cyber threat landscape and the regulatory frameworks essential for safeguarding sensitive information. His strategic mindset and disciplined approach have been instrumental in driving cybersecurity initiatives that align with both organizational goals and broader national security imperatives. He excels at navigating the complexities of compliance, risk management, and threat mitigation, ensuring that organizations remain secure in an increasingly interconnected world. In addition to his technical prowess, Richard is a skilled communicator, adept at translating complex security concepts into actionable insights for both technical teams and executive leadership. His ability to foster collaboration and drive informed decision-making has been a hallmark of his career. Throughout his work, Richard has consistently demonstrated the highest standards of character and integrity, making him a trusted leader in the cybersecurity field.

I’m excited to share my professional biography, highlighting my 16+ years of experience in corporate commercial management and legal advisory across mining, construction, and agriculture. My expertise in contract strategies, risk assessment, and stakeholder relations equips me to make a valuable impact within board roles, guiding organizations toward sustainable growth. Here is my biography.

H. Humphrey McKenzie, Operational Risk Executive at Wells Fargo - Retired, is a distinguished leader in operational risk management with over two decades of...

In "Navigating Uncertainty: Lessons from Hurricane Preparedness for Business Adaptability," the article explores how strategies used to prepare for natural disasters, like hurricanes, can be applied to business environments facing sudden shifts and challenges. Key insights include the importance of proactive preparation, effective resource management, clear communication, adaptability, and learning from experience. Just as communities prepare for storms with emergency plans and resource allocation, businesses must conduct risk assessments, establish crisis management strategies, and embrace flexibility to successfully navigate market disruptions and economic uncertainties. The article underscores that success lies in building resilience, both in life and business, to face unpredictable storms together.

Nichole T. Thompson is a seasoned compliance executive with over 15 years of professional experience in internal audit, compliance, and enterprise risk management. Her...

I’m excited to share my professional journey and experiences with you. Throughout my career, I've strived to embody a blend of strong character, deep knowledge, strategic insight, and effective communication. My commitment to excellence has guided me in setting high standards and achieving outstanding results in every role I’ve undertaken. I believe that a strategic approach and innovative thinking are key to driving success and making a meaningful impact. I invite you to explore my story and learn more about my journey and contributions.

I’m thrilled to share my professional journey with you all! With over 35 years of experience in banking and finance, I’ve had the privilege of pioneering risk management practices and developing frameworks for leading financial institutions. As Chief Executive of RiskBusiness and publisher of The Risk Universe, I’ve been dedicated to advancing operational excellence and global risk management education. My work spans international markets and diverse sectors, reflecting my commitment to enhancing risk management practices worldwide. I’m excited to continue contributing to this field and sharing my insights with you all!