Committee

Abbeygale Anderson is the Founder of Cross Impact Capital, an investment firm with the mandate of investing in underserved founders and/or category-redefining businesses that seek to address some of the largest disparities among underserved communities. The fund is focused on tech-enabled solutions within financial services and healthcare.

Previously, Abbey was an Investor at Stone Point Capital, where she focused on investing in businesses within the global financial services industry.

Outside of work Abbey serves as a Board Member for her alma mater, Noble and Greenough School and the Synergist Network, a national organization dedicated to providing women the infrastructure, network, and business acumen critical for long-term success in their investing career. Abbeygale graduated Cum Laude from Dartmouth College with a degree in Political Science and Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies.

Andrew Michael Aran is the co-founder and Partner of Vineyard, a boutique asset manager specializing in real asset, private equity and venture capital within the digital and power sectors. Vineyard arranges single asset funds and SMAs for family offices and institutions who seek differentiated exposure and attractive risk-adjusted returns across these themes. Since Vineyard’s inception in 2020, he and his partners have completed five investments, ranging from data centers to broadband and SMRs.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Aran worked in banking at BNP Paribas and Santander, where he advised on and structured complex debt financing solutions for energy and industrial clients for domestic and cross-border transactions, with a particular emphasis on private equity–backed companies and assets.

Mr. Aran earned his MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business and his BS at The King’s College. In his spare time, Mr. Aran enjoys golf, racquet sports and the Arts. Mr. Aran lives in New York with his wife Olivia and beloved miniature Dachshund “Duchess”.

Ben is the leader of the Mergers & Acquisitions group at Sullivan. His practice focuses on corporate and securities law, representing public and private companies in complex transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, capital markets transactions, real estate investment trust (REIT) conversions, SEC reporting and other general corporate and securities matters.

Ben counsels clients through all stages of the corporate life cycle – from initial formation and financing through successful initial public offering or acquisition. He also plays an active role in the firm’s blockchain initiative, and advises companies with respect to blockchain and related technologies, virtual currencies and digital token sales, and related securities laws and regulatory matters, including (i) structuring and documenting the offering of Ethereum-based smart contract digital securities for a real estate fund, and (ii) structuring and documenting the offering of a principal-protected digital security in the hospitality industry.

In addition, Ben is a leader of the firm’s Opportunity Zones practice group, and he advises a range of clients in forming private investment funds, partnerships, joint ventures and other investment structures to take advantage of the U.S. Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017's Opportunity Zone Program.

Eduardo brings over 20 years of experience across financial planning, operational strategy, and corporate development. Before joining NeuroVitals, he was CFO at Stavvy, a high-growth SaaS company with a successful exit, and previously held executive roles at MSCI, where he led FP&A for its global Index business. His early career began in manufacturing at Carrier Corporation..

Eduardo completed an MBA at the MIT Sloan School of Management and a Master's in Finance from EGADE Business School in Monterrey, Mexico.

Deborah leads a team of experienced commercial bankers in delivering all the resources of our global firm to emerging middle market companies and their leadership teams.

In his more than 30-year career including public accounting, Senior Management positions and as a Board Member at both privately held and private equity-owned entities, Stuart has been recognized for his ability to transform companies by actively understanding their drivers, people, and strategies.

In 2022 the Providence Business Journal named Stuart one of the year's "Leaders & Achievers," and in 2021, The Providence Business Journal named Stuart as their Strategic Leadership Award winner. In 2016, the Boston Business Journal named Stuart CFO of the Year in the Large Private Company Category.

Previously, as Bradford’s President & CEO, he had focused the company on sustainable formulations, with products that boast clean ingredient lists, less packaging, contain little or no water, and fewer preservatives than liquid alternatives. Under Stuart's leadership, Bradford had expanded its market-leading position from the world's leading manufacturer of specialty bar soap to becoming a personal care innovation development company with a core competency in manufacturing.

Stuart is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Global Management Accountant (CGMA). He earned his BS in Accountancy from Bentley College, an Executive Master of Business Administration from Suffolk University, and studied in Harvard University's Executive Education Program.

Alan Berrey is a serial entrepreneur and subject matter expert. He has been the founder and CEO of multiple technology companies in the mobile communications industry. He has sold technology solutions to many of the largest companies in the world. He is the author of “Beyond Expertise” and a former US Army Airborne Ranger. He received a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Brigham Young University and an MBA from Carnegie Mellon University.

Prior to joining Wincove, Alex enjoyed a 12-year professional hockey career. During that time, Alex served as a Player Representative with the NHL Players Association. Alex graduated from Harvard University, where he was Captain of the hockey team, and earned an MBA from Southern New Hampshire University. He lives in the Boston area with his wife and four children.

Ben Brandes is a seasoned investor and advisor with extensive experience in private equity, investment banking, and business development. As a partner at NewOrigin Investments, he focuses on scaling businesses and driving sustainable growth. Ben specializes in AgeTech and health and wellness sectors, leveraging his expertise in strategic growth, operational improvements, and acquisitions to create long-term value for stakeholders.

Chris lends his 20+ years of experience in planning, forecasting, growth and operations for companies in numerous sectors including tech, energy & professional services. He has experience across all aspects of operations including finance, accounting, recruiting, HR, legal, tax & employee training. He has closed on more than a dozen small to mid-size acquisitions and helped lead three companies to successful exits. He has been a key contributor to various company’s modernization, transformation and tremendous company growth. Recognized as an industry thought leader, Chris serves as Vice-President for the Financial Executives International (FEI) Boston Chapter and is a Co-Chair of The CFO Leadership Council Boston Chapter. He is a sought-after keynote speaker at industry events across the country.

David is GM at Hunt Club and Founding Member at TBD Angels. As an entrepreneur, he has held operating roles at 6 internet/mobile startups that raised $150m and were acquired for $750m, and he has invested in 100 companies as an angel investor. Awards include Dealmakers' Hall of Fame Inductee, The Boston Globe's Tech Power Players 50, Boston Business Journal's Power 50: Most Influential Bostonians, BostInno’s 50 on Fire: Education Winner / Investment Winner / Tech Finalist, Finalist for NEVY Angel of the Year and Startup Boston Community Builder of the Year. ​David holds a BS with Distinction in Computer Science from Cornell University and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

Peter Cifichiello is a dynamic business lawyer specializing in corporate transactions. He advises clients on mergers and acquisitions, equity and convertible note financings for startup and emerging growth companies, corporate structuring and outside general counsel matters including governance. Peter is also well versed in commercial transactions that involve vendor and consumer services, licensing, shareholder rights, and executive employment. His clients are comprised of small and mid-cap companies, professional service providers, investment entities and financial institutions.

Working closely with clients, Peter manages deals from beginning to end. Many clients also call upon him to provide outside general counsel services both before and after transactions. Peter’s deep understanding of a client’s businesses, respective risk tolerance and the legal issues most relevant to them is invaluable. Peter’s hands-on approach enables him to help companies seamlessly adapt to rapidly changing markets. Peter applies an execution-oriented approach to the practice of law that facilitates the efficient management of the clients’ growth, corporate structures, intellectual property, and financial discipline.

Before Bowditch, Peter served as a Surface Warfare Officer in the United States Navy aboard the USS Denver (LPD-9), deploying twice in support of both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. During his service, Peter attained the rank of Lieutenant Commander and was awarded two Navy-Marine Corps Commendation Medals and a Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

Dave Clayman is Co-Founder and CEO of Twelve Points. As an entrepreneur himself, Dave is know for being a trusted advisor to his business owner clients, guiding them from raising money to optimizing the company's retirement plan to helping them plan for and execute their ultimate company exit. Dave continues to further his professional credentials as a Certified Exit Planning Advisor and a Chartered Private Wealth Advisor.

Dan joined MCRC in 2014 after an extensive career in commercial banking and private equity investing at several Massachusetts-based financial institutions including Bank of New England, BankBoston, and Citizens Financial Group. At Citizens, he helped build Citizens Capital, a private equity subsidiary which invested in middle market companies in a broad range of industries.

Dan earned a B.A. in Economics from Boston College and an MBA from Babson College, and is member of the Association for Corporate Growth.

Clients at every stage of the business life cycle rely on John Cushing as a partner and strategist, advising them on matters such as business and succession planning, entity selection and formation, private equity and venture capital financing, joint ventures and strategic alliances, mergers and acquisitions, private placements and public offerings of debt and equity securities, technology licensing, SEC compliance, corporate governance, recapitalizations, executive compensation and general corporate matters.

John works collaboratively with clients across a variety of industries, including EMS and NEMT medical transportation, product distribution and logistics, high technology, consumer products, digital and print media, e-commerce and e-solutions, SAAS, information technology, life sciences, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, professional and financial services, and alternative energy.

High-powered and strategic corporate counsel, leader, negotiator, communicator and trusted business partner with a practical, business-focused approach to problem solving and a strong reputation for achieving clients’ goals by closing difficult transactions, integrating new products, overcoming competitive challenges, and identifying risk management strategies.

Experienced in a wide-range of global transactions and business environments with companies in various stages of growth, including retail (online and brick-and-mortar), software and medical device companies.

Skilled in M&A, strategy, corporate governance, equity and debt financing, incentive equity, software licensing, privacy (including GDPR and CCPA), intellectual property, employment, food safety, environmental, anti-bribery/anti-money laundering, litigation, and regulatory compliance matters.

An attorney by training, an entrepreneur in spirit, and an executive leader through experience. Tracy’s career has focused for more than two decades in the sports industry on start-up companies, technology offerings, and pioneering business initiatives.

Jim DeLeo began his career at Gray, Gray & Gray over 30 years ago, and now serves as the Managing Partner. He founded the Transaction Advisory Services practice, works closely with many of the region’s most prominent sources of capital, and hosts the firm’s innovative quarterly DealMakers events that bring entrepreneurs, private equity professionals and operating businesses together to help facilitate transactions.

Established client facing professional with a sales and finance background. Over 15 years of combined experience with a successful track record of pinpointing business opportunities and executing effective strategies. Dynamic, articulate, energetic and team-oriented professional that has successfully nurtured client relationships while focusing on retention and growth.

Jim has 25+ years of turnaround restructuring and growth experience as a private equity investor, CEO, and entrepreneur. He has over $4 billion of transaction experience in deals in North America and Asia. Prior to Alary Capital, Jim was deal partner at Full In Partners, a New York growth equity tech fund. Previously CEO of Pomelo Health, a Full In portco, Jim led the restructuring through to exit. He was CEO and co-founder of MingJian, an AI-powered platform empowering purchase decisions for Asian consumers.

Jim led the turnaround for a Gore JV which sold for a 450% return. Formerly Asia Head of global restructuring firm BBK (sold to KPMG) providing turnaround restructuring and interim management for PE and corporates. Jim holds an MBA from INSEAD and dual bachelor's degrees in entrepreneurial management from Wharton and transportation engineering from Penn Engineering.

An avid sailor, Jim has raced in more than a dozen offshore regattas in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans and is an active Rotarian.

Dr. Nan-Wei Gong, CEO and founder of FIGUR8 the industry-leading solution that transforms musculoskeletal (MSK) care with objective data and AI-driven biomarkers. A serial entrepreneur, technologist and innovator in healthcare technology and MIT PhD graduate, she has pioneered advancements in healthcare, wearable technology, and AI-driven solutions, holding 10+ patents and serving on advisory boards for leading MedTech companies.

Ben Gredler is the Market Executive for Business Banking at Bank of America in Boston. His team of commercial bankers serves privately held companies covering a variety of industries in the greater Boston area, creating custom banking solutions to help them meet their strategic growth goals. Ben has been at the bank for 15 years working primarily on this team.

Sarah is a Director of Business Development at Trivest. Trivest is a private equity firm focused on the support and growth of founder-led & family-owned businesses in the middle market. Sarah is responsible for business development initiatives at the firm, including the origination and evaluation of investment opportunities. She is based in New York and covers the Northeast region, managing Trivest’s deal relationships in that geography. Prior to Trivest, Sarah spent 10 years at The Riverside Company.

Tara Heath started her career as a temporary coworker in 1996, Tara has worked her way up to her current position as Chief Legal Officer, General Counsel at The Boston Beer Company. Holding a BS in Biomedical Engineering and MBA from Boston University, plus a JD from Suffolk University Law School, she's been a major part of milestone BBC achievements such as our merger with Dogfish Head, our acquisition of Ohio and Pennsylvania breweries, and the design of the Sam Adams Taprooms in Boston and Cincinnati.

A technologist with over 25 years of industry experience, Raj Indupuri is responsible for establishing the eClinical Solutions vision and future-looking technology strategy. He is deeply passionate about fostering innovation to revolutionize the Life Sciences industry with ground-breaking technologies that will modernize clinical trials and bring treatments to patients faster. As an industry veteran who has been part of the evolution of Life Sciences and clinical data management for over two decades, Raj has an astute business vision to realize the digital future and enable progress and potential with data and analytics at the core of the company’s innovative products and solutions. Raj is responsible for the overall direction and management of the company and is a Mechanical Engineer with an MBA from Boston University who firmly believes data is the new fuel that will drive human progress.

Janak is a 3 time founder-operator of VC funded companies in the healthcare/pharma tech space. He is currently leading digital initiatives for the Commonwealth of MA. He also serves as an advisor to 3 ventures in health tech space spanning early stage to growth equity and often works with private equity firms on the buy side.

Samson Kay is the Majority Owner & CEO of Phillips Precision, Inc. in Boylston, MA, where he leads an operator-led acquisition and growth strategy in precision manufacturing. With a background in scaling high-mix/low-volume CNC operations and preparing for AS9100 and ITAR certifications, Samson focuses on building resilient, automated machine shops that deliver aerospace, defense, and industrial components on time and at spec.

Steven P. Kelly, brings over 30 years of entrepreneurial and industry experience, having founded and led multiple successful businesses. His leadership is characterized by a commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, meticulous attention to detail and a dynamic, high-energy approach to every project. His dedication to professional excellence and personal commitment is encapsulated by the guiding principle: “Exceptional. No exceptions.” This philosophy shapes his leadership and motivates those around him to pursue the highest standards in all endeavors.

Steven began his career in commercial construction working for Payton Construction in the Boston market throughout the 1990’s. In 2002, he reached a significant milestone by acquiring Timberline Construction which at the time was focused solely on the wireless telecommunications infrastructure industry. Under Steven’s leadership, Timberline performed significant wireless communications projects including Boston’s Big Dig and Logan Airport connecting the city. Through his strategic vision for growth, Timberline diversified its sector portfolio beyond wireless alone adding multiple commercial sectors to become a full-service, client-centric construction management firm. With continued success providing exceptional services for the wireless telecommunications and construction management divisions, Steven separated Timberline into two companies, Timberline Construction Corporation (TCC) and Timberline Communications Inc. (TCI) in 2017 to better serve customer-specific needs.

Under Steven’s strategic leadership, financial acumen and commitment to excellence, TCC and TCI have earned strong reputations as best-in-class construction management and telecommunications infrastructure companies in New England. Steven continuously invests in his companies, focusing on recruiting top talent in business, customer service and construction operations. Known for building robust relationships, precise budgeting, diligent scheduling, comprehensive communication and reliable project execution, Timberline has attracted high-profile clients and organizations within the life sciences, technology, healthcare, commercial, residential, academic, hospitality and wireless telecommunications sectors.

Expanding his entrepreneurial ventures, Steven purchased Tenney Mountain in Plymouth, New Hampshire, in the spring of 2022. His vision is to transform and enhance the beloved mountain into a four-season resort, encompassing workforce and market-rate housing, hotels, hospitality, retail and a business park with a dedicated focus on the growing life sciences sector in New Hampshire. Millions of dollars in improvements have already been invested at Tenney, with further improvements planned to elevate the resort experience. Steven’s leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence continue to drive the success and growth of his ventures, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and the communities they serve.

Barznab Khan is the President & CEO of Rawshon Group, based in Braintree, MA. Since founding Rawshon in 2004, he has led its expansion into retail, real estate, pharmaceuticals, and cannabis. His ventures include Richdale Food Shops (85+ locations), Epione Laboratories (pharmaceutical imports), and Elevated Roots (cannabis operations). Barznab holds a BSc in Finance & International Business, pursued his MBA at Northeastern University, and is currently enrolled at Harvard Business School. He is actively involved in Vistage CEO Group, YEC, and the Harvard Club of Boston.

Brendan Kiernan is a Partner with Mirus Capital Advisors who joined the firm in 2004. Experienced in business valuation, corporate finance advisory and deal execution, Brendan leads Mirus’ Business Services practice, as well as co-leading sell-side and buy-side M&A mandates. Brendan has made significant contributions to dozens of client transactions and engagements during his tenure with the firm. His work has focused primarily on clients in the technology, business services, and industrial and distribution sectors.

Before joining Mirus, Brendan worked for Dresdner RCM Global Advisors, the asset management arm of Dresdner Bank AG, and the Industry Standard, a business magazine focused on the internet economy.

Brendan is a graduate of Boston College and earned his MBA from Bentley’s McCallum Graduate School of Business. He holds series 7, 79 and 63 certifications from FINRA. Brendan currently resides on the south shore with his wife and three daughters.

Scott Kingsley is a Vice President on Stellex’s Business Development team. Prior to joining Stellex, he was a Vice President at Highview Capital, a middle market private equity fund in Los Angeles. He began his private equity career at JMC Capital.

He received his B.A. in Political Science from The College of the Holy Cross.

Lee is managing partner of Smart Business Network Inc., a national events, media and marketing company founded in 1989, primarily responsible for expanding the company’s Aspire deal-making conference throughout the U.S. He plays a key role in establishing corporate policies and developing long-term strategy and growth plans. Previously, he founded and chaired the Growth Group at national law firm Arter & Hadden LLP (now Tucker, Ellis & West), which focused on working with middle-market and high-growth technology companies. 

Arthur is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Mabbett & Associates, Inc. with direct responsibility for overall company management, strategic planning, financial and general administration. Arthur also serves as a Senior Project Manager and project team member for EH&S technical input, as required.

As an Environmental Scientist and Engineer, Arthur has over 50 years of experience in the fields of environmental auditing and permitting, industrial waste management, site assessment and restoration, pollution prevention, environmental pollution control, and occupational safety and health.  Prior to establishing Mabbett in 1980, he was an Associate and founded the Health and Environment Group of a major Cambridge based architectural-engineering firm, and also served as an Environmental Sciences Officer/Consultant at the US Army Environmental Hygiene Agency, the US Army Academy of Health Sciences and the US Army Hawaii/Tripler Army Medical Center.  As a Major in the US Army Reserve, Arthur served as a Special Assistant for Occupational and Environmental Health in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army, Washington, DC.

Licensed Professional Engineer (MA), Qualified Environmental Professional, Certified Safety Professional, Certified Hazard Control Manager, Registered and Certified Sanitarian, Diplomate of the American Academy of Sanitarians

For the past 25 years, Dan has been helping startups and large companies shape their online product strategy. His startup work includes launching Foursquare, Rent The Runway, The Skimm, Blade and Skift. He's also redefined the digital strategy and designed the experiences for more staid organizations such as The New York Times, CNN, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, TD Ameritrade, The Tate Galleries, Saturday Night Live, Eurobank, Booking.com and The Wall Street Journal. One of his most noted projects was creating the original strategy and user experience for Hulu. Prior to Charming Robot, Dan co-founded the design agency Hard Candy Shell. He is the host of the podcast Story in a Bottle and the author of Audible Original book The Barstool MBA. Dan received his Master’s Degree from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism and his Bachelor of Arts from Colby College in English and Performing Arts. He is currently a Senior Fellow at the Fletcher School at Tufts University.

Dave MacKeen Jr. has held leadership positions within the Technology Staffing industry for over two decades, including the roles of CFO and president, prior to becoming CEO of Eliassen Group in 2010. During his tenure as CEO, Dave has spearheaded tremendous company growth, working in collaboration with his team and utilizing a combination of organic and acquisitive tactics and strategies to stay aligned with changing staffing industry dynamics. Under Dave’s leadership, Eliassen Group has completed its third private equity partnership, with the most recent being Stone Point Capital, positioning Eliassen Group to transformational growth as a leading national strategic consulting and talent solutions firm.

While at Eliassen Group, Dave has enjoyed significant achievements at the regional and national level, including the following:

• Recognition from the Boston Business Journal as 2021’s Citizens Middle Market Executive of the Year
• Staffing Industry Analysts' annual Staffing 100 North America list for seven consecutive years and nine times overall. In 2022, SIA welcomed Dave into the Staffing 100 Hall of Fame

Additionally, Dave serves on several boards including the Bentley Executive Club, Endicott College Board of Advisors, the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, Van Noy Valor Foundation and Saint John’s Prep Trustee Associate .

Mark Manning serves as a legal and business adviser in a broad set of areas, including mergers and acquisitions (“M&A”), growth capital, and intellectual property (“IP”). Mark regularly facilitates M&A deals across a wide variety of industry sectors on behalf of both buyers and sellers, which provides him with a deep understanding of what drives both sides of a deal and allows him to create practical solutions to issues that get deals done. Similarly, he negotiates growth capital financings on behalf of both emerging business and capital sources. Additionally, he helps clients commercialize their intellectual property, develop inbound and outbound licensing arrangements, and craft appropriate ownership and usage rights for jointly developed IP.

Behzad Mansouri is a Division Executive at Charles Schwab where he helps lead the growth of the firm's UHNW and Institutional client business, across all asset classes. He serves on the Board of a VC Fund and clean energy company, complimenting his background in capital markets and investment management. An alumni of Columbia University and Harvard Business School, he has previously worked for both US and International firms including Merrill Lynch, Barclays Captial, BNY Mellon and Credit Agricole.

Laurie Masiello, Co-Founder of Masy BioServices, served as CEO from its inception to sale. She formed her company on integrity and excellence, “Raising the Bar for Excellence” in the biopharmaceutical industries. Having achieved ISO-9001 and ISO-17025, Laurie was named 2018 Outstanding Woman in Business by the Worcester Business Journal. She serves on community and industry boards, sharing her expertise and drive.

In 2022, Laurie and her husband, John, broke off to start Predictive Monitor LLC, embracing the research and best practices they developed in their 40 years leading Masy. Predictive Monitor launches its debut product, OverShield.

Brent Mathews provides cash flow, leveraged loans to smaller (<$5MM EBITDA) businesses for growth and recapitalizations with special expertise in acquisitions by privately owned companies, private equity groups, family offices and independent sponsors.

Since 2003, Brent has worked across different credit products including factoring, private label credit cards, owner-occupied commercial real estate, and asset-based lending at large commercial finance companies, a small privately owned lender and entrepreneurial banks.

Rob joined Gemini in 2007 and has been actively involved in completing over 30 transactions for the firm in a variety of industries including technology, business services, education, healthcare, manufacturing and distribution. He’s served on the Board of Directors of 20 portfolio companies. Previously, he worked at RBC Capital Markets where he focused on mergers and acquisitions, public equity financings, and private placements for middle market businesses in the technology sector. Rob received his B.S. in Quantitative Economics from Tufts University.

Brian serves as managing partner for the firm's Boston office. He practices in the area of business law where he counsels privately and publicly held companies on corporate, finance, and securities law matters. Brian specializes in advising closely held businesses and larger companies in mergers and other business acquisitions, sales, and restructuring transactions. He also has venture capital experience, representing both emerging companies and investors.

David is involved with all activities at Pine Street, including deal sourcing, portfolio management, and administration. Previously, he was at Citizens Capital, the mezzanine and private equity group for Citizens Financial Group and a strategy consultant for Mainspring Communications. Before Mainspring, David worked for BankBoston and completed BankBoston's credit and capital markets training program. He is a graduate of Babson College (BS) and the F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business at Babson College (MBA).

Tom Mullin is a Director at Lafayette Square responsible for sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities and due diligence. He is a trusted advisor to middle-market business owners and C-suites. Tom has a particular focus on supporting entrepreneurs and family-owned businesses.

Prior to Lafayette, Tom was a Director on the Origination team at Brightwood Capital Advisors. He has spent thirty-five years in the financial services industry, holding senior positions at PNC Financial Services Group and TD Private Client Group.

Originally from Philadelphia, PA, Tom holds a BS from St. Joseph's University. He also holds Series 7 and 6 securities licenses.

Entrepreneur, academic, investor

Jared B. Paquette is the founding, managing partner of Conanicut Capital. Conanicut Capital is a lower-middle market private equity firm focused on the business services sector with backing from family offices. Prior to founding Conanicut Capital, Mr. Paquette was a senior investment professional at Bunker Hill Capital, a lower-middle market private equity firm based in Boston and San Diego, for ten years where he sourced, executed, and managed private equity investments. Mr. Paquette was formerly a member of the board of Taos Mountain LLC, Rizing LLC, Dyno LLC, and ASPEQ Heating Group LLC.

Previously, Mr. Paquette was an investment professional at Nautic Partners ($4.2B AUM) and Weston Presidio ($3.3B AUM) where he focused on investing in middle market companies in a broad range of industries. Mr. Paquette also worked as an associate in the mergers and acquisitions groups of RBC Capital Markets and Tucker Anthony. Mr. Paquette holds an AB from Bowdoin College and a MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

Bryan has spent his career advising, guiding and recognizing innovation-driven high-growth entrepreneurs in the US and internationally including advice on growth strategies, accessing capital, transactions and alliances and entrepreneurial community building. Bryan was the Global Leader of Entrepreneurship for EY until retiring in June 2019. As part of that role, Bryan led the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year awards globally and captured his insights in the book, "Daring To Compete" published by Wiley. Today, Bryan assists a number of private companies with strategic planning and sits on Advisory Boards.

Dave Schneider is a Partner of River Birch Partners with over 25 years of business experience including 20 years in private equity and debt investing. Prior to River Birch, Dave was a partner with 3K Limited Partnership, a private investment firm, and Main Street Resources, a middle market private equity fund. Dave’s experience includes investment origination, capital raising, transaction structuring and execution, and working closely with portfolio companies at the board and management level.

Prior to Main Street, Dave spent time with J.H. Whitney & Co., an alternative asset investment firm, and MCG Global, a boutique merchant banking firm. He started his career with Price Waterhouse LLP.

Tom has spent the last 22 years at Bank of America/Merrill Lynch where he considers himself an “Intra-Preneur”. He is the founder of a 9 person boutique within the company called Singh & Associates.

He and his team specialize in pre-exit planning for business owners looking to sell their company in 12-36 months. By using their Proprietary financial Modeling Process, they run various simulations and prescribe strategies to help owners maximize their desired outcome.

He also oversees the Avalon location of Merrill Lynch managing 9 Billion of client assets and has been named the top 13 “Best in State Wealth Advisors” list by Forbes Magazine – 4 years in a row.

John Snow joined Quabbin Capital in 1989. He shares responsibility for managing the firm's investments and for developing strategic direction for the firm. His responsibilities also include sourcing new investments, performing due diligence and industry analysis, and closing portfolio investments. Prior to joining Quabbin, John was a Senior Auditor with KPMG in New York and Boston for five years where he audited financial statements of manufacturing, financial, real estate, media, and technology clients ranging from early stage to Fortune 500 companies.

Gordie Spater is the CEO of Katahdin Group and was formerly the co-founder and CEO of Kurgo, the leading dog travel product company in North America. Before coming to Katahdin Group, he celebrated a successful exit of the business to Radio Systems Corporation after 16 consecutive years of revenue growth.

Kurgo’s products are sold nationwide from Petco to the local pet store around the corner. The offerings include everything a dog owner and dog need to get out and enjoy the world together from car harnesses, to seat covers to lifejackets for dogs. Kurgo was an 8-time Honoree of the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest growing companies in the US. Prior to founding Kurgo with his brother in 2003, Gordie helped start two other companies.

Gordie lives in Topsfield, MA with his wife Brooke, three children and Labradoodle Winnie. He is a Cum Laude graduate from the University of Vermont and obtained his MBA from the Harvard Business School. Gordie served on the Topsfield school committee for 6 years and currently serves as a Director of W.F. Young and DIGGS.pet.

Bill has been focused on accelerating organizational growth his entire career. He brings a career track record of delivering exceptional results as both a C-level leader and consultant advisor to organizations focused on growth and innovation. Though Bill is not a doctor himself, healthcare and service has always been important for him (with a wink he might note both grandfathers were doctors, and his father gave service through the Airforce).

When the pandemic hit and our community needed rapid accurate and affordable diagnostic testing he took his skills, with the aid of an extraordinarily extended team to fill gaps in our healthcare system including Dr. Martin Hahn, the Goodwin Proctor start-up initiative, the support and assistance of Senator Bruce Tarr and his team, and the thoughtful aid of his investors and advisors. Through this service he and his team were able to rapidly build and gain certification for the CLIA certified lab AllClear Healthcare.

Today, Bill and his team have found multiple gaps in the healthcare system – with gut health diagnostic solutions, and a plethora of other diagnostic tests he and his Scientific Advisory Committee believe will reduce the cost of healthcare, and accelerate the time to better health, while helping all of us become our own best healthcare advocates.

Bill is a veteran transatlantic sailor who home schooled his 3 daughters with his wife, passing from Trinidad to Turkey, and back. Doing it right (with authentic, evidence-based diagnostics) or not doing it at all, is a modus he strives to live by. Bill lives on the other Cape of Massachusetts – Cape Ann – where you can find him enjoying the company of family and good friends on or near the sea.

John Surrette is a Partner, CGO + Director of Private Equity and Transaction Services at KLR. He works with PE firms with back office and portfolio company needs. He assists clients in evaluating investment opportunities as well as providing hands on experience during the pre and post transaction process, including providing buy-side and sell-side due diligence/quality of earnings services.

With over 25 years of experience as a public/private company CEO, he has experienced many challenges in navigating the difficult process of creating, growing, and sustaining a profitable enterprise. His business experience includes serving as the CEO of several successful high-tech manufacturing firms and CEO leadership roles at several high-tech public companies. He was twice a finalist in the E&Y Entrepreneur of the Year program during his career.

Currently, he is involved with improving enterprise value and leadership performance with over 40 local and regional private company clients. One of his most successful roles is turning around underperforming companies and helping Owners negotiate exits at premium company valuations.

Before his business career, Phillip served the nation as a Naval Intelligence Officer, earning consistent top 1% performance reports, selection for early promotion, and related honors. He earned his political science undergraduate degree with a psychology minor from Brigham Young University. He also completed the Master of Science Strategic Intelligence program at the Defense Intelligence Agency and continued his executive development at the Harvard and Stanford Business Schools. He recently completed several Executive Development courses at the Harvard Law School to hone his mediation, negotiation, conflict resolution, and change management skills.

With experience spanning Investment Management, Real Estate Brokerage, Global Companies, and Early-stage Startups, Kyle demonstrates a solid track record across diverse projects and industries.

Kyle has led successful transactions with both public and private entities, and has helped prior organizations grow to new record revenues. In addition, he played a pivotal role in securing external funding and crafting business strategy for a start-up that grew more than 100x in 3 years.

Throughout his career, Kyle has successfully transacted through multiple funding rounds for various companies, in total securing ~$500 million equity, debt and strategic financing through diverse vehicles, showcasing his extensive capital-raising expertise.

Mr. Tien Wong is a tech investor, entrepreneur, and CEO. He is Chairman & CEO of Opus8, Inc., a private investment and advisory firm investing in exceptional life science and tech enabled services companies, as well as specializing in raising capital for promising tech companies and alternative investment fund managers.

He is Founder of CONNECTpreneur, a global community of 25,000+ founders, investors, CEOs, and business leaders. CONNECTpreneur organizes the world’s largest monthly virtual investor pitch events as well as in-person Forums with upwards of 500 attendees, featuring VIP guests, speakers, exciting presenting companies, and the best CXO to CXO networking on the East Coast. Since 2012, over 1200 companies have presented, half of whom have received funding from investors from the CONNECTpreneur investor network.

Mr. Wong is also a Venture Partner in IronGate Capital Advisors, a VC and Fund of Funds manager investing in dual use technologies; Investment Advisory Board member of Virginia Venture Partners; and Chairman of Lumious, an ed tech company which provides learning & development services to Fortune 500 customers.

Mr. Wong was appointed by Governor Martin O'Malley to the 9-person Maryland Venture Fund Authority which oversees $84 million in VC allocations; he serves on the Boards of Directors of the Austin Venture Association, Association for Enterprise Growth (Chair), Frederick Innovative Technology Corp., Inc. (FITCI), and Junior Achievement, as well as on the Council of Advisors for the Washington Institute for Business, Government, & Society and the Entrepreneurship Advisory Council of The Universities at Shady Grove. He is a Mentor at the Mach37 Cybersecurity Accelerator and Conscious Venture Labs.