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    Tag: strategic leadership

    Gretchen Riemenschneider: Strategic Sidekick; Turning High-Potential Companies into High-Performance Organizations.

    I'm excited to share my executive biography! Over the past 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of helping SaaS and EdTech companies scale, transform, and thrive. From go-to-market strategy and branding to operational efficiency and revenue growth, I thrive at the intersection of vision and execution.

    Gary S. Ezovski: Bringing Practical Solutions, Strategic Vision and Common Sense Leadership.

    I’m excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my 37 years of leadership in engineering, business strategy, and public service. I’ve had the privilege of leading successful organizations, driving economic policy, and contributing to community development. Now, I’m looking to leverage my expertise in board and advisory roles to help businesses and nonprofits grow and navigate strategic challenges.

    Leadership in Transition: From Founder to Executive

    Transitioning from a founder to an executive within a larger corporate structure is a journey of transformation, requiring a shift from hands-on leadership to a broader strategic approach. Michael Beuchat’s evolution from leading MDB Enterprises, Inc. to a senior executive role at Sonny’s Enterprises Inc. highlights the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and long-term vision. While entrepreneurship fosters agility and rapid decision-making, corporate leadership demands alignment with governance structures, empowering teams, and leveraging scale for greater industry impact. Through this transition, Beuchat underscores the power of vision, customer-centric strategies, and the ability to inspire others—ensuring leadership is not just about change but about growth and influence at a higher level.

    Elaine Walsh Carney: Transformative Leader in Philanthropy and Business Development

    Elaine Walsh Carney is a seasoned executive with over 35 years of experience in philanthropy, business development, and organizational leadership, recognized for her ability to drive transformative impact through strategic initiatives and stakeholder collaboration. As the Founding Principal of Pathfinder Philanthropy Advisors, she has helped over 40 organizations raise more than $1.2 billion, leveraging her expertise in fund development, mediation, and negotiation. Elaine’s global perspective, shaped by her work across diverse geographies and industries, aligns with her passion for energy transition and climate change mitigation. A dynamic leader, she excels in building "Cultures of Philanthropy" by uniting donors, board members, and senior executives to achieve ambitious goals. Her contributions extend beyond her professional work through her board service, including Western Resource Advocates and Energy Conservation Works, where she has led sustainable development initiatives. Elaine’s commitment to creating meaningful change is reflected in her strategic acumen, extensive knowledge, and effective communication, making her a trusted advisor and leader in addressing critical societal challenges.

    Scott L. Miller, Ph.D., PG: Distinguished Geological Engineer, Geologist and Executive Leader

    Scott L. Miller, Ph.D., PG, is a seasoned geologist and executive with over 28 years of experience in geology, petroleum exploration, and environmental sustainability. As the President of PS International, he leads innovative solutions for wastewater treatment systems, ensuring compliance with EPA and NPDES standards. With a strong academic foundation, including a Ph.D. in Geology and Geological Engineering, and a proven track record of delivering high-profile projects globally, Scott combines technical expertise, strategic vision, and exceptional leadership to drive operational excellence and foster sustainable growth in the energy and environmental sectors.

    Carol Trotter: Strategic Leader in Financial Optimization and Business Excellence

    Carol Trotter is a seasoned financial executive and business leader with a strong background in accounting, resource planning, and budgeting. As Co-founder of Elevate Pros, Inc., she leverages her CPA and PMP certifications to help businesses optimize financial operations, align resources strategically, and drive operational efficiency. With over two decades of experience across various industries, Carol has held key leadership roles in finance, consulting, and corporate strategy, consistently delivering solutions that enhance fiscal stability and organizational growth. Her collaborative approach, combined with her deep expertise in program budgeting and process optimization, makes her a trusted partner for businesses seeking to strengthen their financial foundation and achieve long-term success.

    Kevin Jost: Pioneering Leader in Media, Technology, and Mobility Innovation

    Kevin Jost is a seasoned executive, entrepreneur, and content strategist with a distinguished career spanning media, publishing, and the vehicle industries. As a founder, CEO, and editorial leader, he has consistently driven business transformation, launching and managing influential media brands while shaping industry discourse on emerging technologies. With expertise in editing, journalism, media relations, and product development, Jost has played a pivotal role in covering and advancing sustainable mobility, autonomous vehicles, and transportation innovation. His ability to bridge the gap between engineering and media has made him a respected authority in the field, influencing both industry professionals and consumers alike.

    Julie Peck: A Proven Leader in Financial, Operational, IT Audit and Cybersecurity.

    Julie Peck is a seasoned executive with extensive expertise in financial, IT, and operational audit, as well as cybersecurity and enterprise risk management. With a distinguished career spanning Fortune 500 companies, a "Big 4" accounting firm, and global manufacturing and financial services organizations, she has consistently been selected to lead critical initiatives and drive transformation. Known for her strategic vision, collaborative leadership, and ability to build high-performing teams, Julie has played a pivotal role in strengthening internal controls, enhancing cybersecurity frameworks, and optimizing risk management programs. Her career includes leadership roles at Nouryon, Gardner Denver (now Ingersoll Rand), Johnson Controls, Fiserv, Deloitte & Touche, and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. Julie holds an MBA from the University of Notre Dame, a BBA from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, and multiple professional certifications, including CPA, CISA, and CISSP.

    Chris Athearn: Pioneering Strategic Leadership in Defense Acquisitions

    Chris Athearn is a seasoned acquisition advisor and strategic leader with a proven history of driving impactful business solutions in defense applications and national security strategy. Renowned for his ability to foster collaboration and guide organizations toward operational excellence, he has successfully navigated complex government-industry landscapes to enhance acquisition frameworks and technological advancements. As the Founder and President of Alfen Consulting LLC and a former Senior Military Acquisition Advisor to the Air Force, he has played a pivotal role in shaping multi-billion-dollar weapons portfolios, optimizing supply chain strategies, and influencing high-level defense investment decisions. With a deep understanding of strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and program execution, Athearn continues to be a trusted force in advancing defense capabilities and organizational growth.

    Bryant D. McCray, MA: Strategic Law Enforcement & Security Expert | Border Security & International Affairs Leader

    Bryant D. McCray is a highly respected law enforcement and security expert with over 40 years of experience in border security, international relations, and public safety. A retired U.S. Marine Corps Master Sergeant, he has served in key leadership roles within U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), including as CBP Attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa, where he oversaw border security operations across 16 African nations. His expertise spans security assessments, risk mitigation, international trade compliance, and interagency collaboration, making him a trusted advisor to government entities, law enforcement agencies, and private-sector organizations. Bryant has been instrumental in developing security strategies, facilitating law enforcement training, and improving relations between federal agencies and global partners. As a Visiting Fellow at the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), he spearheaded initiatives to enhance law enforcement interactions with communities and improve operational policies. With a Master’s degree in Organizational Management, extensive military service, and global security leadership experience, Bryant continues to be a leading voice in border enforcement, strategic security planning, and law enforcement advisory roles.

    Shawn Melton: Driving Drug Development Success Through Strategy, Leadership and Execution.

    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.

    Brett Holmgren: A Seasoned National Security and Intelligence Leader

    Brett M. Holmgren is a seasoned national security and intelligence leader with over two decades of experience spanning the highest levels of government and the private sector. Most recently, he served as Acting Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), where he led the U.S. government’s premier counterterrorism agency and advised the President on national security threats. Previously, as Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Intelligence and Research (INR) at the U.S. Department of State, he spearheaded major digital transformations and governance reforms. Holmgren has also held key intelligence roles at the White House, CIA, and Defense Intelligence Agency, shaping U.S. counterterrorism and cybersecurity strategies. His expertise in risk management extends to the private sector, where he served as Vice President and Acting Chief Technology Risk Officer at Capital One. A recipient of numerous distinguished service awards, Holmgren continues to be a leading voice in intelligence modernization, cybersecurity, and national security strategy.

    David McElroy: A Data-Driven Strategist Driving Business Transformation

    David McElroy is a data-driven leader with over 15 years of experience in data management, analytics, and enterprise architecture, specializing in transforming business operations through innovative data solutions. As the **Senior Product Owner of Data Platforms** at **GreatAmerica Financial Services**, he leads high-performing teams, spearheads cloud migrations, and optimizes data infrastructure using cutting-edge technologies like **Azure, Databricks, and Power BI**. With a strong background in financial services, healthcare, and education, David combines **technical expertise, strategic vision, and leadership** to drive data governance, automation, and business intelligence initiatives. His passion for mentoring, teaching, and fostering data-driven cultures has positioned him as a **trusted expert in analytics and enterprise data solutions**, empowering organizations to unlock the full potential of their data assets.

    Gary D. Ivory: Transformational Nonprofit Leader & Board Executive

    Gary D. Ivory is a transformational nonprofit leader with over 30 years of experience driving strategic growth, board governance, and program development in the social services sector. As president and CEO of Youth Advocate Programs (YAP), Inc., he oversees a $110 million organization operating in 35 states and internationally, dedicated to providing alternatives to incarceration and reducing neighborhood violence. A visionary strategist, Gary has led national and global expansions, secured multi-million-dollar funding, and implemented innovative programs that disrupt systemic inequities. A sought-after speaker and thought leader, he has been quoted in How Children Succeed and Activating the Common Good and frequently addresses topics on violence prevention, social justice, and nonprofit leadership. With a passion for service and a commitment to lifelong learning, Gary continues to shape policies and programs that create lasting, positive change.

    Nada Ismail: A Visionary Legal Executive; Fostering Integrity and Empowerment Through Strategic Leadership.

    I’m excited to share my professional biography, highlighting over two decades of experience in legal leadership, corporate governance, and compliance. My journey reflects a passion for ethical practices, strategic innovation, and empowering individuals and organizations to succeed.

    Mark Baumann: Transformational Manufacturing & Sustainability Leader Driving Risk Management, Operational Excellence, and ESG Innovation

    Mark Baumann is a seasoned executive with over 35 years of experience in global manufacturing, environmental sustainability, and risk management. With a strong background in pharmaceuticals, oil & gas, and industrial manufacturing, he has led large-scale supply chain risk initiatives, business continuity programs, and compliance strategies that drive operational excellence and regulatory adherence. A former U.S. Navy veteran, Mark brings a disciplined, mission-driven approach to leadership, fostering a culture of safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Passionate about helping companies succeed, he is actively seeking board service opportunities where he can leverage his expertise in strategic growth, risk mitigation, and corporate security to support organizations in need of transformation and long-term resilience.