Our Team

Over the past 30 years, I have worked with iconic global technology and strategy consulting firms (including Intel, PWC, and Accenture) and startups, focusing on solving complex business problems and helping clients innovate to bring enterprise product and service solutions to market at scale. The last 20+ years have been dedicated to defining and delivering what success looks like through co-developing strategies for ideal client profiles, ensuring repeatable predictable pipeline growth, and creating consumption models with strategic revenue programs. I have executed go-to-market (GTM) offering roadmaps alongside the world’s leading semiconductor, spatial computing VR/XR (wearables), multi-cloud infrastructure, telco 5G/ORAN stack, CRM, and IoT-Edge, AI/ML foundation providers. This has involved aligning people, processes, capabilities, and programs for new routes to market, fostering partnerships, and offer co-development investments to differentiate, build preference, and generate IP with value creation at scale. Currently, I serve on two not-for-profit boards, leveraging my experience to contribute to broader societal goals. My career is built on a foundation of growth through Strategy, Tactics, Metrics (STEM methodology), innovation at scale, demand creation, and category creation programs, among others. I pride myself on building teams that execute co-innovation, utilizing design thinking for offers that drive a predictable quality pipeline. Leadership for me is about leading with stories, fostering diversity, inclusion, and empathy within teams. With over 30 years of global leadership, client strategy, and consulting delivery experience in the high-tech sector, my focus has always been on building, operating, and transferring client innovation co-development with revenue scale. My expertise in GTM capabilities, leadership, collaboration and orchestration, executive alignment, and delivering innovation at scale underscores my approach to opening up new markets and achieving predictable revenue.

Industry & Type Expertise

HT (Products, Services, Consulting And Advisory) Innovation New Categories

Mastery and Unique Skills

GTM Capabilities Leadership Collaboration And Orchestration Executive Alignment Results Orientation Through Servant Leadership To Open Up New Markets Agile Methodology For Validation Partnership + Client Credentialing Delivering Innovation At Scale (Client Problem, Ideal Customer Profile, Tech Enablement, Offers, Assets, Capabilities, Predictable Revenue)

Damon Auer is an insatiably curious leader with an unflagging optimism and a belief in the limitless potential of teams to achieve remarkable outcomes. Growing up as a missionary kid in Kenya, he developed a global perspective and a passion for understanding diverse cultures and systems—qualities that have deeply influenced his career and leadership style. He brings over two decades of transformative experience across the consulting, software, and healthcare sectors, where he has consistently asked, “why?” and “why not?” to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Damon joins Orchid Black coming from being the Chief Executive and Managing Director for North America at Dedalus Group, a leading healthcare technology provider, where he led initiatives to reimagine healthcare IT and digital solutions across North America. Before joining Dedalus, he served as Vice President of Healthcare at DXC Technology, where he led high-impact digital transformation projects to optimize outcomes on a global scale. Damon’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through his co-founding role at Tribridge, where he helped grow the firm from $34 million to $150 million in revenue over eight years. He was a key force in evolving Tribridge into a SaaS leader in healthcare, challenging conventional thinking and inspiring novel solutions that resonated with industry needs. His leadership in building the healthcare practice and setting ambitious goals ultimately contributed to Tribridge’s acquisition by DXC Technology. Earlier in his career, Damon founded Navint Partners, a consulting firm focused on CRM and healthcare solutions. He grew Navint to a $35 million organization before merging with Tribridge, demonstrating his skill in both strategic execution and inspiring professional excellence. His leadership journey also includes critical roles at Nextera, where he led innovative projects for Fortune 500 clients and supported the company’s IPO, as well as at PwC, where he managed large-scale enterprise software projects. Throughout his career, Damon has built a reputation as a team builder and a driver of innovation. His relentless focus on challenging the status quo and inspiring teams to accomplish the extraordinary has catalyzed growth, enhanced operational outcomes, and fostered a spirit of continual learning and improvement in every organization he has been a part of.

Industry & Type Expertise

Healthcare Healthcare SaaS Enterprise & SMB Professional Services Enterprise Software Media & Entertainment

Mastery and Unique Skills

Go to Market Strategy Digital Health Strategic Sales Due Diligence Story Telling Team Building Process Transformation Partner Strategy & Management Product Management M&A Due Diligence Merger Integration Change Management

I am an accomplished business leader renowned for my ability to drive customer-focused changes across various professional services firms. My leadership is defined by building high-performance teams through empowerment, innovation, and creativity. Known as a practical problem solver who focuses on outcomes, my operational style is designed to deliver real value promptly. Beyond my role in organizational leadership, I am a dynamic keynote speaker and a published writer, particularly on the subjects of customer and employee engagement. These platforms allow me to share insights and strategies for enhancing engagement and fostering a culture of responsiveness and innovation within organizations. My expertise encompasses a broad range of areas critical to organizational success, including customer experience development, change management, marketing, and organizational change. I am deeply committed to leadership development and practice leadership, principles that have guided significant and impactful organizational transformations. I also specialize in business process re-engineering and implementing the voice of the customer initiatives. These areas highlight my ability to align organizational processes and strategies with customer needs, ensuring an integrated and customer-centric approach to business operations. This comprehensive approach to leadership and change management, underpinned by a steadfast focus on customer and employee engagement, positions me as a transformative leader. I excel in guiding organizations through periods of growth and change, ensuring they remain aligned with their core mission of serving customers effectively while achieving enhanced organizational effectiveness.

Industry & Type Expertise

Enterprise Manufacturing HiTech

Mastery and Unique Skills

Customer Experience Development Change Management Marketing Organizational Change Leadership Development Practice Leadership Business Process Re-Engineering Organizational Effectiveness Voice of the Customer

With 7+ years dedicated to spearheading growth and transformation for Seed to Series B companies, I bring a distinctive ability to merge analytical rigor with creative strategy. This approach enables me to tackle strategic challenges effectively and spearhead entry into new markets. In my journey across the private, public, and nonprofit sectors, I've honed my skills as a devoted analyst. My methodology leverages in-depth research and data-driven insights, facilitating actionable decisions that drive company growth at every stage. My passion lies in problem-solving and innovating, pushing the boundaries to explore what's possible. My experience is also deeply rooted in mission-focused investing, driven by a forward-looking optimism. This perspective is crucial as I engage in areas such as predictive modeling, strategic planning, business innovation, and market entry, not to mention the design of sustainability programs. This array of skills not only underscores my commitment to impactful work but also my capacity to influence and guide companies towards a sustainable and prosperous future.

Industry & Type Expertise

SMB Enterprise Software Green Transformation Retail

Mastery and Unique Skills

Predictive Modeling Strategic Planning Business Innovation Market Entry Sustainability Program Design

With over six years of experience in finance and market research, my career has spanned roles in a dynamic tech startup, a globally recognized Fortune 500 company, and a sell-side M&A investment bank. This diverse background has not only enriched my professional skills but also allowed me to leverage my psychology background in utilizing insights into human behavior, disrupting cognitive biases, and fostering innovative thinking to solve complex business challenges. My journey as a former Division 1 athlete has instilled in me the quintessential values of teamwork, discipline, and clear communication. These qualities have been pivotal in developing my ability to work well under pressure, maintain accountability, and consistently deliver high-performance results. My expertise encompasses due diligence, financial modeling, business plan consolidation, and conducting thorough market and competitive analysis. These skills are complemented by my ability to devise and implement strategies for growth, ensuring businesses are not only prepared for the current landscape but are also poised for future expansion. In addition, my proficiency in data analysis, market research, understanding the voice of the customer, and UX/IX design, coupled with a strategic mindset and critical thinking abilities, positions me as a versatile professional ready to tackle the next challenge. I am keen on pushing my limits and continuing to grow, leveraging my diverse skill set to drive success in the evolving business environment.

Industry & Type Expertise

Startups & Enterprise Tech Manufacturing / Distribution Facility Services Healthcare

Mastery and Unique Skills

Financial Modeling Data Analysis Market Research Voice Of Customer UX/UI Design Strategy Critical Thinking

As a senior executive with over 30 years of extensive global experience, my career is characterized by robust leadership skills and deep expertise across both public and private sectors. My tenure has included pivotal roles at Global 100 companies, alongside positions within innovative technology and service organizations, industry-leading distributors, and software firms. Renowned for a hands-on leadership style, I've successfully guided global sales and business development efforts, led complex project teams, established high-quality service delivery frameworks, and navigated companies through turnaround scenarios as CEO. My commitment to elevating the productivity and success levels of business owners and professionals has been a hallmark of my approach, fostering strategic advancements to achieve higher productivity and success. Leveraging my comprehensive experience, I serve as a certified coach and business consultant, employing industry-leading tools and programs to tailor solutions that meet the unique challenges of my clients. My expertise spans coaching, communication, marketing, negotiation, and organizational strategies—essential skills for catalyzing growth and operational improvements. My leadership endeavors encompass a broad spectrum of responsibilities, including steering global sales, spearheading business development initiatives, managing complex projects, and directing service delivery. Having held CEO positions in critical turnaround situations, I've demonstrated a consistent ability to drive tangible results and uphold excellence. I am dedicated to aiding clients in navigating and excelling within today's competitive business landscape. I specialize in strategic planning and implementation, executive and professional coaching, business development, and cultivating strategic partnerships. My ability to network effectively, generate innovative ideas, and lead organizational development initiatives complements my skills in marketing, product management, service management, IT outsourcing, professional services, and technology consulting. This diverse skill set enables me to lead with innovation and guide organizations toward achieving their strategic objectives in the evolving corporate world.

Industry & Type Expertise

SMB & Early Stage Hardware/IoT Saas Development Pro Services Infotech

Mastery and Unique Skills

Business Development Sales Strategy Team Builder

I am an accomplished professional with over three decades of experience in healthcare and information technology. I have effectively ensured the fulfilment of commitments to clients, employees, and global organizations on a regular basis. In my various roles throughout my career, I have consistently emphasized establishing and nurturing trusted relationships with clients and partners to achieve mutual and strategic benefit. With a comprehensive background in healthcare technology, I served as North America Operations Director and Company Officer at Dedalus Group. Prior to this, I spent four years at DXC Technology as a Client Partner, excelling as a General Manager of a client portfolio of large healthcare organizations. My extensive experience also includes a 32-year tenure at Hewlett Packard and Electronic Data Systems, where I held various roles such as Client Sales Executive and Information Technology Executive. My responsibilities included new business development, client relationship management, contract negotiation, and service delivery leadership. Throughout my career, I have leveraged my leadership and technical expertise by leading teams through revenue and profit improvement initiatives and implementing innovative solutions for healthcare clients. My leadership, spanning from evaluating and leading global accounts to managing large service delivery teams, Illustrates my commitment to excellence in healthcare and information technology.

Industry & Type Expertise

Healthcare Provider Software Solutions and IT Services Life Science Supply Chain Solutions and IT Services Healthcare Payor Claims Processing/Billing Solutions and IT Services Telecommunications Billing Solutions and IT Services

Mastery and Unique Skills

Strategic Business Planning and Execution Operational Efficiency Client and Customer Relationship Management Organic Business Growth

As a high-growth, transformative Executive with a notable track record in sales, senior sales management, and operational leadership roles including CEO and Board Member positions, I have consistently driven value and growth within small, medium, and large companies. My ability to surpass sales goals and corporate objectives is matched by a reputation for building authentic, long-term relationships across multiple industries, thereby catalyzing sales transformation and rapid growth. With over 30 years of experience as a dynamic Business Executive, I have demonstrated success in both Private Equity-funded companies and Public Companies, navigating through pre-IPO stages to successful IPOs and creating multiple successful liquidity events for shareholders. My expertise extends across business transformation, channel strategy & management, mergers & acquisitions, and leading multinational teams with a foundational strength in sales. My career is distinguished by an adept ability to generate high growth and establish solid, long-term relationships with executives and decision-makers across various sectors. This skill set is crucial in environments ranging from large to small companies, where I am recognized for my strategic insight and operational acumen. I have excelled in fostering team cohesion and leading by example, providing essential training that underpins a culture of excellence and accountability. My strategic execution encompasses transitioning strategies that align with corporate objectives and adapt to market demands, showcasing my comprehensive experience in P&L management, business development, sales management, and professional services marketing management. These capabilities have been instrumental in achieving organizational goals and driving sustainable growth, positioning me as a pivotal leader in transforming businesses to surpass their growth targets.

Industry & Type Expertise

SMB Ecommerce Fintech Healthcare Telecom Pro Services ERP/CRM Infotech SaaS Development

Mastery and Unique Skills

Business Transformation Channel Strategy & Management Mergers & Acquisitions Multinational Teams Sales

Over the past 25 years, Dan Weinfurter has built a distinguished career as a builder of businesses, author, motivational speaker, and serial entrepreneur. He has founded and led several private equity-backed companies, bringing his extensive experience and wisdom to both startups and large public companies. He is a board member for several companies, including Tablescapes LLC, Brill Street + Company, Direct Fit Inc., TalentDrive, Corporate Technology Communications, ThermoFluids, Inc. and CPRi. Dan was also the Chairman of the President’s Advisory Council for the YWCA of Chicago and a mentor with the Clinton Foundation’s Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence. He is currently an Executive Advisor for the Sales Education Center at Marquette University. His book, Second Stage Entrepreneurship: Ten Proven Strategies for Driving Aggressive Growth is a useful guide for any entrepreneur making the transition from start-up to sustainable growth. It was published in late 2013 by Macmillan/Palgrave. Dan's entrepreneurial journey includes founding GrowthPlay, LLC, an integrated sales effectiveness services business. Under his leadership, GrowthPlay expanded rapidly from its inception in 2014, achieving a ranking of #22 on the 2017 Inc. 500 list and #1 in the Business Products and Services category. Prior to GrowthPlay, Dan co-founded and led Capital H Group, LLC, and earlier launched Parson Group, LLC, which focused on consulting services for finance, accounting, and business systems. Parson Group's meteoric rise led it to be ranked #1 on the Inc. Magazine 500 list in 2000. Before his entrepreneurial ventures, Dan was the number two executive at Alternative Resources Corporation (ARC), where he played a crucial role in growing the company’s revenues from less than $3 million in 1989 to over $100 million in 1994, eventually leading to a successful IPO. His career began at General Electric, where he honed his skills in various sales and management roles over eight years. Dan excels in helping companies achieve rapid organizational growth by focusing on improving sales processes and recruiting the right talent for critical roles. He believes that a committed and aligned team is essential for business success. Dan’s favorite phrase, “grow or die,” reflects his relentless drive for growth and improvement. Throughout his career, Dan has demonstrated a unique ability to build, scale, and lead organizations, making significant impacts across multiple industries. His strategic insights and leadership have consistently delivered results, driving growth and enhancing operational efficiency.

Industry & Type Expertise

Tech Business services Business systems Private equity

Mastery and Unique Skills

Entrepreneurship Sales process improvement Recruitment and team coaching Growth strategies Leadership in private equity-backed businesses Rapid business expansion and scalability strategies

With extensive experience in product management and technology leadership, along with experience in corporate strategy, marketing and market development, IT leadership and project rollout, and product sales leadership, I bring a rounded perspective of realistic focus and obsess about representing the Voice of the Customer (VoC) in product strategy, roadmap, and delivery. My career started as a hands-on technologist, deploying and managing network-based solutions to bring people together. I joined Lotus Development to work on human collaboration, and when IBM acquired the company, accelerated a career trajectory that taught me how to advocate for clients, build community, and spend every day focused on business outcomes. I rotated through positions in product management, marketing, strategy, information technology, sales, and competitive analysis. I was the P&L owner for IBM Lotus Notes through several phases of its lifespan. At its height, Notes generated a $700MM run rate annually, across 10,000+ clients in over 100 different countries. My team and I built that success through direct relationships with our channel and our clients; through events, social media, and my 2013 book "Opting In." Post-IBM, I was a senior product and technology executive in smaller healthcare, insurance, and media companies. Across all of these, I've worked on more than a dozen M&A projects on both the buy and sell side; OEM and partner agreements; new product introduction and rollout; and full lifecycle management. My passion is to empower clients to deliver solutions - I get projects across the finish line. The results are end-user delight, exceeding expectations, revenue growth and profitability. I have successfully overseen the implementation of strategies that enable significant and sustainable growth for a diverse range of digital products and cloud SaaS solutions across multiple industry sectors. I have also created highly effective go-to-market strategies that align to company mission and improve the user experience. I have devised frameworks to assess product roadmaps, ensuring that technology is built in a scalable and reliable way, aligned with market opportunity and business outcomes, along with technical innovation and engaging delighters for end-users. With Orchid Black, I am focused on outcomes. I'll ask a lot of "why" questions to get you there. I challenge assumptions, bring unconventional thinking, consider both short- and long-term, and drive holistic solutions. The end result is a market solution that addresses objectives for both you and your clients.

Industry & Type Expertise

SaaS and Cloud Solutions B2B Platforms Healthcare Tech Human Resources Tech Risk and Insurance Global Market Delivery

Mastery and Unique Skills

Product Management Product-Market Fit Roadmap Development, Validation, and Delivery Go-to-Market Strategy Mergers & Acquisitions and Strategic Partnerships Brand Community Development and Evangelism Digital Transformation

Eddie works with entrepreneurial and emerging growth companies to develop and implement approach-to-market sales strategies and sales and marketing effectiveness programs that drive profitable growth. His areas of focus include GoToMarket channel partnerships, new healthcare markets penetration including revenue growth initiatives as well as migration from ‘founder led sales’. Prior Eddie was the co-founder of SalesGlobe www.salesglobe.com a sales effectiveness consulting firm. SalesGlobe assist organizations in the development of GoToMarket strategy plans as well as design Sales Compensation and Sales Quota programs that align business objectives and organizational change management to assist in driving sales results. Eddie co-founded ADTRAN, Inc. (NASDAQ - ADTN), a designer and manufacturer of communication equipment. Under Mr. Birchfield’s leadership, ADTRAN’s sales organization grew to more than $200 million. ADTRAN was recognized by Inc. magazine as one of the “500 Fastest Growing Private Companies in the United States”. Mr. Birchfield holds a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) from the University of Georgia and a bachelor of science (BS) degree from Auburn University.

Industry & Type Expertise

Startups & enterprise SaaS and Cloud Solutions B2B Platforms Healthcare Tech

Mastery and Unique Skills

Sales effectiveness Revenue growth strategy Go-to-Market Strategy Channel partner development Product-Market Fit entrepreneurial growth leadership Digital Transformation

I am a specialist in transforming the revenue performance of underperforming and erratically performing B2B companies. By refining sales tech stacks from lead to cash, I enhance process efficiency, system adoption, data quality, and overall implementation. My expertise is rooted in a strong background in sales operations and marketing, where I focus on driving top-line revenue through a strategic combination of process improvement, skills development, and technology deployment. My approach is holistic, targeting the core of sales operations and enablement to streamline the lead-to-opportunity and closed-won processes. By optimizing sales processes and enhancing demand generation strategies, I ensure that companies not only reach but exceed their revenue goals. Key to my strategy is the meticulous definition of CRM business requirements and the expert implementation of CRM systems, tailored to fit the unique needs of each business. This enables seamless sales and marketing integration, bolstered by advanced analytics to monitor and improve the quality of the sales pipeline. With a keen eye on both the strategic and tactical aspects of sales and marketing, my work ensures that companies achieve improved revenue performance, predictability, and deep insights, setting the stage for sustained growth and success."

Industry & Type Expertise

Enterprise HiTech Fintech - Payments Pharma Industrial Business Services

Mastery and Unique Skills

Sales Operations and Enablement Lead-to-Opportunity Closed Won Process Sales Process Demand Generation CRM Business Requirements CRM Implementation Sales and Marketing Analytics Quality of Pipeline

Operating at the intersection of business, technology, and people, I am recognized as a highly collaborative technology solutions leader and enterprise architect. My career is defined by a proven ability to develop and deliver groundbreaking products and services across diverse sectors such as Financial Services, Insurance, Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing, Software Development, and Entertainment. With substantial experience in leading the research, design, development, and delivery of platform solutions, I have consistently created significant value and delighted customers. As an analytics enthusiast with a broad experience spanning the private, public, and non-profit sectors, I leverage comprehensive research and data-driven insights to inform actionable decisions throughout various stages of company growth. My passion for problem-solving and crafting creative solutions drives me to continually push the boundaries of possibility. My involvement in mission-focused investing and a persistent optimism for the future further motivate my professional endeavors. My expertise encompasses Application Portfolio Consulting & Development, employing Design Thinking to navigate Business and Technology Transformation challenges effectively. I have spearheaded New Product Launches and Go-To-Market (GTM) strategies, underlining my capabilities in Solutions and Product Development. This comprehensive skill set allows me to drive innovation and strategic transformation, positioning organizations for success in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Industry & Type Expertise

Business Info Services Cloud Computing HiTech Fintech Healthcare Insurance Cable/Entertainment Consulting

Mastery and Unique Skills

Application Portfolio Consulting & Dev Design Thinking Business and Technology Transformation New Product Launches & GTM Solutions and Product Development

I help underperforming and erratically performing B2B companies assess their revenue performance, predictability, and insights through a unique data correlation service called Revenue Analyzer™. My focus extends to enhancing revenue strategy, structuring, and sales execution, including detailed work on segmentation, performance metrics, and assessing the quality of the pipeline. At the heart of my approach is the science of sales, encompassing the entire lead-to-cash lifecycle. My expertise allows organizations to gain a comprehensive understanding of their revenue performance, enhance revenue predictability, and derive meaningful revenue insights. This holistic view is crucial for refining the sales strategy and execution, ensuring that efforts are not only aligned with the company's goals but also effectively implemented for maximum impact. By focusing on the quality of the pipeline, I ensure that companies are not just chasing numbers but are strategically positioning themselves to attract and retain high-value clients. This approach not only improves current revenue streams but also sets the stage for sustained growth and success in competitive B2B markets.

Industry & Type Expertise

Enterprise Hitech Fintech - Payments Pharma Industrial

Mastery and Unique Skills

Revenue Performance Revenue Predictability Revenue Insights Quality Of Pipeline Sales Strategy & Execution

I specialize in discovering and maximizing the potential of underperforming mid-market challenger brands, with a career that demonstrates an exceptional knack for turning adversity into strategic opportunity. With more than two decades of experience as a domain expert in consumer internet, publishing, media, and B2B information services, my approach is deeply rooted in leveraging market and customer insights. This allows me to craft bold strategies and pioneer innovative digital platforms that not only establish but significantly boost growth, profitability, and value creation for early-stage and mid-market companies. As an innovator at heart, I excel in engaging markets and stakeholders during challenging times, identifying hidden value, and reimagining pathways forward. My leadership reshapes team cultures, fostering environments where creativity and bold vision thrive. With a proven track record as a four-time President & CEO, my sales and marketing-driven growth mindset is backed by over 25 years of global, corporate, and entrepreneurial experience. This unique blend of skills has empowered me to guide businesses ranging from $1MM to $100MM through early-stage development, growth stalls, major market shifts, and comprehensive business transformations. As a pragmatic chief business architect, I have generated over $200MM in new enterprise value for companies in the information services, software, marketing, and media sectors. My agile, entrepreneurial leadership style, predisposition for action, and adeptness at reengineering business models and cultivating new growth engines are particularly effective in scenarios that necessitate significant change. My expertise encompasses organizational change, strategic leadership, revenue management, process improvement, product commercialization, strategic partnerships, brand positioning, and digital transformation. My approach not only accelerates time-to-traction through well-crafted GTM strategies but also ensures that new product initiatives and positioning fully capitalize on untapped opportunities.

Industry & Type Expertise

Start-Ups & Early Stage & Portfolio Co. Mgmt & Mid Market <$200MM SaaS Publishing & Media Information Services SalesTech EdTech ElderTech Senior Care

Mastery and Unique Skills

Organizational Change Strategic Leadership Revenue Management Process Improvement Product Commercialization Strategic Partnerships Brand Positioning Digital Transformation

With over three decades immersed in the realms of technology sales, business development, and Private Equity Value Creation, my career is a testament to the power of enduring relationships built on trust. For the past 20 years, I have dedicated myself to demonstrating to Private Equity sponsors, C-suite executives, and board directors the transformative impact of technology on efficiency, visibility, scalability, and ultimately, on enhancing valuation for exit strategies. My passion lies in identifying and seizing opportunities to assist clients in accelerating revenue generation, refining go-to-market strategies, and cultivating alternate sales channels and partnerships for sustained growth. As a Strategic Business Development and Sales Executive, I've established a formidable track record in leading sales teams within Fortune 100 Technology companies. My experience encompasses spearheading and nurturing high-performing teams adept at leveraging technology to address the mission-critical priorities of commercial stakeholders. I excel in forging collaborative partnerships with C-suite leaders, delivering professional service solutions tailored for private equity-owned organizations. My commitment to fostering long-term partnerships is driven by a desire to act as a catalyst for competitive growth, ensuring the alignment of diverse cross-functional teams towards common objectives. My expertise spans critical areas such as Private Equity, Sales, Business Development, Customer Success, ERP/CRM, Fintech, Strategic Partnerships, and Strategy. These competencies allow me to drive significant business transformation, positioning the organizations I work with to not only meet but exceed their strategic goals. My approach is characterized by a deep understanding of the nuances of technology sales and the unique challenges and opportunities it presents, making me a pivotal figure in navigating and thriving in the competitive landscape of technology sales and private equity value creation.

Industry & Type Expertise

Enterprise - Technology Telcom/Media Professional Services Finance InfrastructureEdge/Hyperscalers, AI/ML SaaS

Mastery and Unique Skills

Private Equity Sales Business Development Customer Success ERP/CRM Fintech Strategic Partnerships Strategy

I am an experienced executive that has devoted my entire career to technology, from mainframes to Artificial Intelligence. I have a proven track record of realizing business value through compelling user experiences delivered through quality, hardened technology platforms. I have served clients from small businesses to the Fortune 50 as a team member of small boutiques to large global Systems Integrators. I have had the privilege of serving clients in Retail, Life Sciences, Financial Services, Healthcare, Education, and other sectors in my career. I have had the benefit of working with technology ranging from sector-specific platforms to MarTech to horizontal global hyperscalers. My hands-on experience has empowered me to bring unique perspectives and capabilities to every client that I serve. I have a proven track record of delivering results with high performing teams, both as a hands-on technology practitioner and a P&L owner. I have personally led multiple large-scale digital transformation programs to successful outcomes, from business strategy to technology strategy.

Industry & Type Expertise

Enterprise Architecture and Technology MarTech Financial Services/Insurance Retail Life Sciences

Mastery and Unique Skills

Business/Digital/IT Transformation Enterprise Architecture Agile Software Design and Architecture Cloud Quality Assurance

With 30+ years of experience, I have carved a niche as a serial entrepreneur, engineer, and technology executive, deeply involved in the evolution of voice and video communications and the contact center industry. My journey has been marked by leadership roles and co-founding ventures that have grown to be industry leaders, reflecting a profound capacity to drive innovation and growth. My expertise spans executive and staff roles in R&D and marketing within the realms of networking, computer equipment public companies, and venture-backed AI and data mining startups. As a Silicon Valley alumna, my career has been primarily focused on technology companies in the software, hardware, and networking sectors. I specialize in new venture incubation and acceleration, guiding companies through hyper-growth phases, and adeptly pivoting stalled firms at critical inflection points. My experience is underpinned by a comprehensive skill set that includes SaaS/PaaS/Cloud New Product Development, Business/Research Analytics, Entrepreneurship, Product/Portfolio Management, Digital Innovation Models, Agile/Lean Development, Design Thinking, Leadership and Culture, and Mergers and Acquisitions. Currently, I serve as a senior lecturer at The Ohio State University, following an associated faculty role at Case Western Reserve University. There, I teach graduate and undergraduate courses in quantitative methods, entrepreneurship, business strategy, problem-solving, and leadership. My work as a mixed methods researcher focuses on the organizational dynamics surrounding innovation practices, sustainable value creation, and achieving a net positive impact. This blend of practical leadership experience and academic insight positions me uniquely to contribute to the fields of technology and education, fostering the next generation of leaders and innovators.

Industry & Type Expertise

Mastery and Unique Skills

Change Management Multinational Teams Mergers & Acquisitions Product Management Strategy Turnarounds

I am a design-focused business strategist and a translator of complex business strategies into actionable brand creative and marketing executions. Mastery in every aspect of brand development and marketing—from business strategy, brand design, to marketing operations and campaign deployment—defines my professional landscape. Translating business challenges into designs that accelerate progress forms the core of my work ethos. My strength lies in designing and visualizing complex processes and systems, a skill that allows for the creation of impactful and understandable solutions from complex challenges. Creative problem-solving motivates me, driving every project I undertake towards innovative solutions that resonate on multiple levels. My contributions are directly measurable: through the sales of products and services, enhanced team and client satisfaction, elevated audience engagement, and the fostering of lasting loyalty. Among my greatest achievements is the transformation of a fast-moving, decentralized corporation—from a $7 billion family business into a $23 billion fully integrated global leader in its category. This wasn’t just about scaling; it was about creating a brand that embodies resilience, innovation, and leadership. With skills spanning writing, illustration, design, research methods, workshop facilitation, team mentoring, marketing planning, and creative deployment, I bring a comprehensive toolkit to any project or challenge. My expertise in value proposition and positioning, brand strategy, product and brand portfolio architecture, systems and knowledge mapping, as well as visual and verbal branding, marketing operations and deployment, service model design, and sales strategy and messaging, allows me to build and guide brands to achieve their full potential in the marketplace.

Industry & Type Expertise

Mastery and Unique Skills

Value Prop & Positioning Brand Strategy Product and Brand Portfolio Architecture Systems & Knowledge Mapping Visual and Verbal Brand Marketing Ops & Deployment Service Model Design Sales Strategy & Messaging

I have honed a strong ability to simplify, streamline, and improve operational processes throughout my career. As a devoted and inspiring technical leader, my focus has always been on bridging the gap between business objectives and technical execution. By employing Agile software delivery methods and qualitative measurement techniques, I've successfully guided organizations of varying sizes to align their business and technical strategies effectively. My expertise encompasses a wide range of areas essential for the modern digital enterprise. This includes process & quality measurement, where I've developed and implemented metrics to ensure continuous improvement and excellence in delivery. My work in promoting business agility and implementing scaled agile frameworks (SAFe) has enabled organizations to become more responsive and adaptable to market changes. In product design and product management, my approach has always been user-centric, ensuring that product development aligns with customer needs and business goals. My background in software engineering management has equipped me with the skills to lead and inspire engineering teams, fostering a culture of innovation and high performance. Digital transformation is another key area of my expertise. I've led initiatives that leverage technology to fundamentally transform business operations, creating new opportunities for growth and competitiveness. My strategy work focuses on leveraging technology to achieve business objectives, ensuring that IT investments are aligned with strategic goals. Moreover, my knowledge in database design & theory and engineering change management has been instrumental in developing robust technical infrastructures and managing the evolution of engineering practices within organizations. This comprehensive skill set makes me a versatile leader, capable of driving significant technological and business improvements.

Industry & Type Expertise

Enterprise & SMB & Early Stage Gov Contractors/Agencies Higher Education/Academia Tech/Software Fintech Retail Enterprise Insurance

Mastery and Unique Skills

Process & Quality Measurement Business Agility/Scaled Agile (Safe) Product Design/Product Management Software Engineering Management Digital Transformation Technology Strategy Database Design & Theory Engineering Change Management

I am a dynamic thinker, celebrated for my exceptional pattern recognition abilities and profound emotional intelligence. My journey began in the bustling startup scenes of Chicago and Silicon Valley, where I honed my skills through strategic and technical collaborations. This foundation, combined with over 15 years in the corporate world, has sharpened my knack for achieving what often seems just out of reach. In my role as Chief Strategy Officer and Partner at Big Chalk, I am at the forefront of a team committed to dismantling business and market challenges, propelling our clients toward unprecedented growth. My diverse 20+ years of experience across various sectors have equipped me with a dynamic and comprehensive approach to crafting and implementing impactful solutions. My expertise spans several critical domains, including technology integration, client management, strategic planning, and P&L management, all underscored by a relentless drive for innovation. My ability to anticipate market trends and fluidly navigate across industries has been a key to success, offering technology, strategy, and marketing consulting across the news media, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail sectors. This versatility and unconventional intelligence have been my greatest assets in steering businesses toward success in a rapidly evolving landscape. Driven by a passion for big data, I am committed to empowering CMOs, brand managers, and sales leaders with the tools and insights necessary for making informed, data-driven decisions. My career is a testament to my dedication to application consulting & development, branding, marketing, organizational transformation, raising capital, and nurturing startups. My vision is clear: to unlock the full potential of data and technology, creating lasting value and transformative impact in every endeavor.

Industry & Type Expertise

SMB & Early Stage – Cloud Computing Retail/CPG Digital Media Digital Marketing E-Commerce EdTech Food & Beverage Info Tech Manufacturing – Light Publishing/Media Software & SaaS Development

Mastery and Unique Skills

Application Consulting & Dev Branding Marketing Organizational Transformation Raising Capital Startups

Renée is a customer-centric operating executive with over 25 years of experience driving profitable growth, enterprise value, and go-to-market scale. Her leadership spans multiple industries and Fortune 100 companies, where she’s recognized for creating value across product marketing, solution and services sales, global operations, and M&A. As a trusted advisor to public and private companies, she helps shape growth strategies, AI adoption, digital-first transformation, and acquisition roadmaps. A former CIO, Renée brings a unique dual perspective—understanding both the customer and solution provider sides of the business. In revenue leadership roles, she has built and led high-performing teams—large and small—delivering industry-leading results in new logo acquisition, customer retention, and success. She is frequently engaged with Fortune 500 C-suites and boards influencing investment strategies and decisions. Her ability to align sales and marketing with operational strategy scales seamlessly across complex, matrixed global organizations delivering measurable business value. Talent development and a commitment to diversity and inclusion are central to her leadership approach. Renée currently serves as an Operating Partner at Orchid Black, a boutique firm focused on accelerating enterprise value. She is also engaged with Private Equity firms advising on acquisition targets and due diligence. At Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), she served as General Manager and Vice President of Americas Business Applications ($1.6B), where she led 40% YoY recurring revenue growth. At Hewlett-Packard (NYSE: HPE), she applied her sales and operating strengths to lead HPE’s Global Customer Experience Centers, influencing $29B in annual presales, following her role leading Global Sales Operations for HPE Software ($4B). Notably, she was the lead executive on the $1B JD Edwards acquisition into PeopleSoft ($2B) and later led key acquisitions at HPE—including ArcSight, Fortify, and TippingPoint establishing HPE’s $1B Enterprise Security business. Renée brings robust boardroom experience. She serves on the Board of Directors for OARO, a global identity and access management company, chairing its HR and Compensation Committee. At Dominican University of California, she chaired the Governance and Finance & Investment Committees, helping the institution adopt a more business-oriented strategy, identify new revenue streams in partnership with the tech community, and mitigate pandemic-related financial risks. She also led the modernization of the university's decades-old by-laws. A dynamic change agent, Renée is known for assembling high-impact teams, tackling complex challenges, and driving measurable outcomes. She leads with authenticity and transparency, making her particularly effective in navigating ambiguity and leading through transformation—critical traits for public boards and executive teams alike. Renée is a recognized thought leader and speaker, having presented at Microsoft Ignite, Dreamforce, Oracle OpenWorld, Apttus Accelerate, and the Austin Women’s Tech Conference. She is listed among the Top Sales Leadership Speakers and is a dedicated advocate and mentor for young women pursuing careers in technology and leadership

Industry & Type Expertise

Enterprise & SMB Enterprise Software - SaaS, AI Channel Strategy & Management High Tech, Retail/Retail Tech, Retail Banking Professional Services

Mastery and Unique Skills

GTM Strategy & Execution Global Operations & RevOps Enterprise & SMB Solution Sales Leadership Development, Org Constructs Storytelling & Design Thinking Mergers & Acquisitions, Merger Integration

With over 25 years of experience in accounting, financial, and operational leadership roles, my expertise is centered on utilizing processes, data, and technology to enhance revenue, achieve cost efficiencies, and foster scalable operations. My approach is founded on servant leadership, prioritizing the team's needs to drive strong collective performance and deliver superior value to our clients. Holding credentials as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), I bring a comprehensive knowledge base and expertise to finance and business management. My career has been dedicated to aiding organizations in refining their operations and strategic decision-making, underpinned by an in-depth understanding of financial systems and management strategies. In my consultancy roles, I have successfully partnered with a broad spectrum of clients to enhance financial stability, streamline operations, and improve business performance. My ability to communicate complex financial concepts clearly has established me as a valuable consultant and trusted advisor for firms targeting sustainable growth. My commitment to process improvement and operational excellence, alongside my extensive educational background and track record of achieving significant results, positions me as a leader in the consulting industry. I apply my skills in business process optimization, ERP implementations, cost accounting, financial modeling, and project accounting to empower businesses to navigate and prosper in the dynamic economic environment. My focus extends to areas such as distribution, mergers & acquisitions, market research, operations, and revenue operations (RevOps), driving comprehensive strategies that address today's market challenges and opportunities.

Industry & Type Expertise

Enterprise & SMB Food & Bev Hardware/IoT Healthcare FinOps EdTech BioTech Construction ERP/CRM Manufacturing

Mastery and Unique Skills

Distribution Mergers & Acquisitions Market Research Operations RevOps

AI Innovator, Learning Science Expert, Agile Product and Engineering Leader My journey includes key roles as VP of Engineering, where I successfully led companies through IPOs and multiple exits, demonstrating a strong track record of building and scaling engineering organizations. As a computer scientist, I have made fundamental contributions to AI and Learning Science, including the development of open-source educational learning platforms that have reached millions of users in industry and academia. AI and Learning Science Contributions: My expertise in AI and Learning Science is reflected in the innovative solutions I've developed and the thought leadership I've provided. I led the development of ALOSI, an adaptive online personalized tutor, and contributed to the creation of the edX platform, which has reached hundreds of millions of learners. Additionally, I conducted big data studies that have influenced online teaching practices across academia and industry. I have spearheaded the development of AI-driven customer service technologies and generative AI tools that enhance product development processes. I’ve had the honor of presenting my work on adaptive learning and online education to the National Academy of Sciences. Leveraging these systems and principles of learning, I developed four courses on AI and Copilot for Microsoft, which form the backbone of their online education program. Agile Accomplishments: In parallel to my AI and Learning Science achievements, I have been a driving force in agile transformations across diverse sectors. As an agile leader and coach, I have guided companies through complex transformations, optimizing product-market fit and enhancing team effectiveness. My work at organizations like Visa, ADP, BCG, NICE, and startups including Optibus, showcases my ability to deliver high-quality software products through agile methodologies, while my role as an educator has empowered thousands of engineers and product owners globally.

Industry & Type Expertise

AI and Machine Learning Personalized Learning Systems and Platforms Enterprise Software Agile and Product Coaching

Mastery and Unique Skills

Financial Services Medical Transportation Customer Service Enterprise Software Dept of Defence

Stephanie Hallford is an accomplished global technology executive whose career spans hardware and software solutions, supply chain strategy, international business development, and partnerships. With extensive leadership experience in Asia, including roles in mainland China and Hong Kong, she combines a deep understanding of cross-cultural business practices with a sharp strategic acumen. Stephanie's expertise lies in driving innovation and fostering global partnerships to deliver impactful business outcomes. Most recently, Stephanie led Intel's commercial client business, where she oversaw P&L, cybersecurity, cloud software solution development, and the business and enterprise platform division. During her tenure in Asia, Stephanie held pivotal roles such as Head of Sales for the People’s Republic of China and founding member of Intel’s China Tech Ecosystem (CTE). She was instrumental in expanding the supply chain to include mobile-friendly local ODMs and driving global sales of CTE-manufactured tablets and smartphones in the Channel. Her accomplishments include leading Intel's groundbreaking global campaign for Intel® Centrino® mobile technology, a milestone in wireless mobility, and navigating complex US-China geopolitical dynamics in the mid-1990s. During this period, Stephanie advised Ford Motor China on strategy amidst pivotal moments such as China's WTO accession, the evolution of the United States’ MFN clause, and China's growing ambitions in indigenous technology. Stephanie holds a bachelor’s degree in International Affairs and Humanities from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service. Born and raised in Asia, her multicultural perspective and innovative leadership style have consistently delivered transformative results.

Industry & Type Expertise

Enterprise & SMB HiTech VC / growth investment / corporate venture Cybersecurity and Cloud Solutions Post-merger integrations Investment portfolio optimization

Mastery and Unique Skills

Change management Go-to-market Organic revenue growth Channel development Customer acquisition / retention Operations Design / branding Marketing Product / product development

Steve Figman is an accomplished executive and strategic advisor with over 25 years of experience driving transformational growth, operational excellence, and market leadership across healthcare, life sciences, and technology sectors. With a distinguished career at industry-leading organizations like Veeva Systems, NTT Data, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, and Hewlett Packard, Steve is a trusted partner to senior leaders, helping them navigate complex business challenges and achieve lasting success. Steve’s expertise spans a wide range of critical areas, including go-to-market strategy, revenue generation, sales and marketing optimization, digital transformation, and competitive positioning. He is particularly adept at leveraging advanced technologies, such as AI and cloud solutions, to create innovative strategies that unlock new growth opportunities and streamline operations. Steve partners with organizations to solve complex challenges, accelerate growth, and create long-term value. With his deep industry knowledge, operational rigor, and focus on results, Steve is a trusted advisor for companies seeking to drive impactful change, optimize performance, and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving marketplace. As a hands-on leader, Steve has an exceptional ability to craft strategic visions and guide their execution, helping organizations achieve measurable results. Whether leading digital health initiatives, optimizing sales and marketing efforts, or guiding large-scale transformations, Steve’s approach is grounded in a deep understanding of both business strategy and operational execution. Holding an MBA and a Six Sigma Process Excellence belt, Steve brings a disciplined, data-driven mindset to all his engagements, ensuring that companies not only meet but exceed their growth objectives. His ability to drive both strategy and execution has made him an invaluable asset to organizations looking to scale and thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

Industry & Type Expertise

Healthcare & Life Sciences Technology & Digital Health AI & Cloud Solutions Growth-Stage & Enterprise Companies Professional & Managed Services

Mastery and Unique Skills

Strategic Vision & Business Growth Go-to-Market Strategy & Execution Revenue Optimization & Sales Enablement Digital Transformation & AI Integration Competitive Strategy & Market Differentiation Organizational Alignment & Scaling Process Excellence & Operational Efficiency

I am a collaborative leader, adept at delivering swift, impactful results for both private equity and publicly held global organizations across a spectrum of sectors like education, media, data, advertising, and business services. With over 30 years of leveraging my broad, functional, and international expertise, I've been at the forefront of driving business transformation, expanding the total addressable market (TAM), and enhancing enterprise value while securing consistent revenue and EBITDA growth. My approach integrates a dynamic blend of strategic foresight and hands-on leadership, characterized by high energy and an unwavering commitment to critical thinking and creative problem-solving. This enables me to build and galvanize high-performance teams poised to address complex organizational challenges head-on, navigating both high-growth environments and turnaround situations with precision and agility. At the heart of my success is a deep-seated proficiency in catalyzing growth through strategic alignments, such as account-based marketing, strategic partnerships, and the adept integration of CRM and marketing automation technologies. I excel in harnessing the power of data monetization and navigating the intricacies of mergers & acquisitions to unlock and cultivate value. My methodical approach to enhancing go-to-market capabilities has yielded substantial results, from surging e-commerce performance to expanding affiliate revenue streams and bolstering divisional EBITDA margins. As a visionary and performance-driven strategist, I articulate a compelling narrative that unites vision with strategy, fostering a culture of innovation and resilience. I place a premium on team building and leadership development, creating synergistic units that excel in execution and adaptability. By focusing on strategic growth development, demand creation, and category innovation, I employ my comprehensive skill set to propel organizations towards unparalleled success.

Industry & Type Expertise

SaaS DaaS Media Marketing Services Business Services Education Private Equity Retail

Mastery and Unique Skills

Management Account Based Marketing Business Transformation Business Development Data Monetization Mergers & Acquisitons Strategic Partnerships 3P Marketplace