Robert Proudfoot

David Kowalski is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of experience in sales, finance, accounting, and compliance, bringing a strategic and results-driven approach to every organization he engages with. His expertise spans multiple industries, including rescue animal organizations, sports, technology, financial services, and accounting, where he has successfully led initiatives that drive growth, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. A dedicated leader with a strong ethical foundation, David thrives in collaborative environments, leveraging his ability to see the bigger picture while executing detailed, well-structured plans. With a history of board leadership, speaking engagements, and a passion for strategic problem-solving, he remains committed to fostering organizational success through integrity, innovation, and a focus on long-term impact.

Andrea Beske is a transformational product leader with over 15 years of experience driving innovation, operational excellence, and strategic growth in the financial sector. As a **Director of Product Management** at BNY Pershing, she has pioneered digital solutions that enhance investor and advisor experiences, optimize costs, and generate significant revenue growth. With a strong ability to align cross-functional teams, champion technological modernization, and secure executive buy-in, Andrea has led large-scale product enhancements that have expanded digital adoption and automated key workflows. Passionate about data-driven decision-making and regulatory compliance, she has successfully implemented governance frameworks and risk management practices that improve transparency and efficiency. A dedicated mentor and advocate for a high-performance culture, Andrea thrives on fostering innovation, leading agile teams, and delivering impactful solutions that create long-term business value.

Maria Gallahue-Worl is a seasoned executive with over 33 years of leadership experience in manufacturing, advanced materials, healthcare, aerospace, and product innovation. As the CEO of TenCate Protective Fabrics, she drives global strategy, operational excellence, and market expansion, ensuring the company remains a leader in high-performance protective textiles. Previously, she held senior leadership roles at Solvay, where she led large-scale business transformations, turnarounds, and international growth initiatives across key markets in Europe, China, Japan, Brazil, India, and Korea. A strong advocate for women in manufacturing and defense, Maria is a sought-after speaker and mentor, dedicated to fostering leadership excellence and industry innovation. With expertise in corporate strategy, technical problem-solving, and global business development, she is committed to helping organizations navigate change and achieve long-term success.

With over 35 years of experience in the healthcare industry, I’ve dedicated my career to building high-performing teams, driving commercialization strategies, and fostering strong company cultures. As a board member, advisor, and executive leader, I thrive on delivering breakthrough growth and creating lasting impact. If you’re looking for strategic leadership in medical devices, pharmaceuticals, or life sciences, I’d love to connect. Here is my biography.

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.

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.

I've spent over four decades building teams, growing businesses, and leading strategic initiatives in the sports and business industries. As I transition into new advisory and board opportunities, I’m excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my journey in leadership, sales, and strategy. Here is my biography.

I’m excited to share my professional biography, detailing my journey as a financial executive with over 45 years of experience in CFO leadership, mergers and acquisitions, cash management, and strategic growth. My expertise spans multiple industries, and I thrive on helping organizations achieve financial excellence.

With over 35 years of experience in sales, marketing, and leadership, I’ve had the opportunity to build businesses, expand into international markets, and drive strategic growth. Now, I am looking to bring my expertise to board roles where I can contribute to business success and innovation. If you’re looking for a dynamic leader with a proven track record in sales, business development, and strategic leadership, I’d love to connect. Here is my biography.

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.

Andrew Dillon is a pioneering business innovation expert and transformational leader with a track record of driving market expansion, technological advancements, and strategic growth across multiple industries. With experience founding and scaling five successful startups—several of which were acquired by major corporations—he has demonstrated an exceptional ability to identify emerging opportunities, develop disruptive solutions, and lead companies from ideation to commercialization. His expertise spans energy, digital solutions, electrification, and customer engagement, where he has guided organizations in unlocking multi-million dollar opportunities through innovative product development and strategic market positioning. As a trusted advisor and enterprise growth leader, Andrew bridges the gap between business strategy and technical innovation, empowering companies to navigate complex markets, expand their reach, and achieve long-term success.

Chase is a seasoned healthcare industry leader with over 20 years of experience specializing in ambulatory surgery centers, pain management practices, and corporate healthcare operations. With a strong foundation in contract negotiations and strategic attorney relationships, he has played a key role in optimizing business structures and driving growth for publicly traded healthcare organizations. His expertise extends to consulting, where he provides valuable insights to organizations seeking to enhance their market presence and operational efficiency. As an active participant in private boards, he brings a strategic mindset, a results-driven approach, and a deep understanding of industry dynamics. Committed to excellence and professional integrity, Chase is a trusted advisor and a valuable asset to any leadership team.

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 business strategy, operations, and financial management. Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about helping businesses scale, improving operational efficiency, and building strong teams. I look forward to new opportunities to contribute my expertise in executive leadership and strategic growth.

've spent my career transforming complex business challenges into scalable, sustainable solutions that drive customer retention, operational excellence, and strategic growth. Whether leading M&A integrations, digital transformation initiatives, or customer and employee experience strategies, my focus is always on actionable results and long-term impact. Here is my biography.

I am excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my journey in finance, accounting, and IT leadership. Over the past 25 years, I have been fortunate to lead high-impact financial transformations, optimize strategic growth initiatives, and drive digital innovation in global organizations. My passion for finance, technology, and community engagement continues to shape my career, and I look forward to new opportunities to make a meaningful impact.