Lara Barlow | Vision to Velocity: Aligning Strategy, Structure & Culture to Deliver on What Matters Most

Steven Hall is an accomplished executive leader with 25 years of experience in operations, supply chain management, and strategic growth within the consumer products and transportation industries. With expertise in finance, P&L management, and global logistics, he has successfully led multimillion-dollar operations, driving cost reductions, process improvements, and market expansion. His leadership in supply chain optimization, vendor negotiations, and data-driven decision-making has resulted in significant business transformation and profitability. With international experience across China, India, Vietnam, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, Steven brings a global perspective to operational efficiency and business development. Passionate about innovation and continuous improvement, he is actively seeking board opportunities to leverage his expertise in helping organizations scale, streamline operations, and achieve long-term success.

Kris Stark is a seasoned Senior Program Manager with a proven track record of driving strategic initiatives, optimizing operations, and leading high-performing teams across both government and private sectors. With expertise in program management, risk mitigation, and organizational leadership, he has successfully managed multi-million and billion-dollar contracts, accelerated technological advancements, and improved operational efficiency for defense and cloud-based enterprises. His ability to navigate complex challenges, streamline processes, and mentor teams has consistently delivered measurable success. Holding multiple professional certifications and a Top Secret security clearance, Kris remains a forward-thinking executive dedicated to shaping the future of program management and business transformation.

Arthur Chmiel is a results-driven business leader with over 30 years of experience in the restaurant, real estate, and property management industries. As the General Manager and Co-Owner of Burger Tech DBA Burger 21 Franchise in Orland Park, he has successfully led the brand’s expansion into the Chicagoland market, earning multiple awards for operational excellence, food quality, and customer service. With a strong background in financial management and team development, Arthur has also played a key role in real estate administration and property management. His previous tenure with McDonald’s spanned two decades, during which he managed one of the highest-performing locations in the country and contributed to the company’s multi-unit expansion. A dedicated longevity athlete and marathon runner, Arthur continuously applies his commitment to excellence both in business and personal performance. His ability to optimize operations, foster leadership, and drive profitability makes him a distinguished executive in the industry.

Christopher Harrington is a seasoned sales and marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. A results-driven leader, he has successfully led go-to-market strategies, optimized category management, and driven revenue growth across North America and international markets, including Mexico, China, and the European Union. With expertise in strategic planning, sales leadership, and operational efficiency, Chris has played a pivotal role in scaling businesses, leading high-performing teams, and executing transformational initiatives. Passionate about accountability, mentorship, and community engagement, he is now seeking board and advisory roles where he can leverage his extensive experience to help companies navigate market complexities and drive sustainable growth.

I’m excited to share my executive biography, detailing my journey in healthcare administration, strategic planning, and operational leadership. With a passion for driving efficiency, enhancing patient care, and fostering innovation, I am eager to leverage my experience in advisory and board leadership roles.

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.

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.

Nancy Dragani is an accomplished executive with over 30 years of leadership in state and federal emergency management, known for her ability to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and lead high-performing teams. As Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 8, she has overseen disaster response, recovery, mitigation, and preparedness across six states and 29 tribal nations, implementing a “People First” approach that significantly improved organizational culture and performance. A champion of strategic initiatives, she launched the Readiness and Disaster Summit, established the Interagency Recovery Cell, and enhanced federal recovery programs, ensuring communities receive effective and equitable support. With a distinguished career that includes serving as Executive Director of the Ohio Emergency Management Agency and holding national leadership roles, Dragani continues to shape the future of emergency management through visionary leadership, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to resilience.

Donald Spainhower is a highly accomplished railroad executive with a proven track record in engineering, safety management, and operational excellence. With nearly four decades of industry experience, he has led large-scale infrastructure projects, optimized capital investments, and implemented critical safety initiatives that have significantly improved efficiency and compliance. His expertise in crisis grant management, workforce development, and regulatory adherence has made him a trusted leader in the field. Known for his strategic planning, strong leadership, and ability to foster collaboration, Spainhower continues to drive innovation and excellence in railroad operations.

Keith Parry is a dynamic and results-driven executive with over 25 years of leadership experience in strategic planning, operations, risk management, and organizational transformation. Known for his ability to lead high-performing teams and drive innovation, he has successfully navigated complex challenges across corporate and government sectors, enhancing security, operational resilience, and financial efficiency. As Vice President at the Lower Colorado River Authority, he spearheaded enterprise risk management, business continuity, and critical infrastructure protection strategies, ensuring the security and efficiency of essential utilities. With a distinguished 30-year career in the U.S. Marine Corps, including leadership roles in special operations and national security, Parry has a proven track record of executing high-stakes initiatives, integrating cutting-edge technology, and cultivating strategic partnerships. Holding an Executive MBA from the University of Texas at Austin, he is committed to lifelong learning, mentorship, and advancing organizational excellence in industry-leading environments.

James Alton Walker is a seasoned retail executive with over 30 years of experience in operations, sales, and strategic leadership. As a results-driven leader, he has successfully managed multi-unit retail operations, overseeing teams of thousands while optimizing profitability and customer experience. His expertise spans P&L management, marketing strategy, team development, and operational excellence. Most recently, as Vice President of Sales and Operations at Advance Auto Parts, James led 225 stores generating over $410 million in annual revenue, consistently exceeding sales and profitability targets. A dedicated mentor and advocate for leadership development, he has played a pivotal role in succession planning and diversity initiatives, including serving as the National Chair of the African American Employee Resource Group. With a strong foundation in business strategy and a passion for mentorship, James now seeks board opportunities where he can contribute his expertise in guiding organizations toward sustainable growth and operational excellence.

Lisa Espina is a transformational healthcare leader with over 30 years of experience in speech therapy and healthcare management. Known for her empathy, strategic vision, and patient-centered approach, she has achieved remarkable success in driving operational efficiency, enhancing patient satisfaction, and fostering team excellence. Fluent in English and Spanish, Lisa is a dynamic communicator and sought-after speaker on topics such as stroke recovery and medical device usage. With her proven ability to lead, innovate, and inspire, Lisa is dedicated to making a lasting impact in the healthcare industry and beyond.

Frank Pokrop is an accomplished leader in regulatory affairs and quality assurance, bringing over 15 years of expertise across medical devices, software/SaMD, capital equipment, and injectable drugs. Certified in multiple disciplines, including RAC, CQE, CQA, CSQE, and CPGP, he has successfully navigated complex global regulatory landscapes, overseeing product approvals and quality management systems for leading organizations such as Abbott, BD, CareFusion, and QuidelOrtho. Renowned for his strategic mindset and collaborative approach, Frank has led global compliance programs across 48 sites, driven cost reductions exceeding $3 million annually, and served as a trusted regulatory liaison for corporate boards and international agencies. A results-oriented executive with a passion for developing teams and achieving excellence, Frank is now seeking a senior position in regulatory affairs or quality assurance to further his impactful career.

Dominick Piscione is a dynamic and results-driven leader with over two decades of experience in account management, business development, and operational strategy. As a Global Account Manager at UL Solutions, he manages a business portfolio exceeding $10 million, leveraging his expertise to drive growth, enhance operational efficiency, and cultivate strong client relationships. With a proven track record of optimizing business processes, leading high-performing teams, and identifying strategic opportunities, Dominick has consistently delivered impactful results. His leadership journey, shaped by his extensive corporate experience and distinguished military service in the United States Air Force, reflects his commitment to excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement. Armed with an MBA, executive education from MIT Sloan, and certifications in Lean Six Sigma, he combines technical expertise with strategic foresight to drive meaningful transformation across organizations.