2026 Dealmakers of the Year Honorees
Presented By: Bricker Graydon Wyatt LLP
Heather Brilliant
CEO
Diamond Hill investment Group
Heather Brilliant, CEO of Diamond Hill Investment Group, led the Columbus-based asset manager through its $473 million acquisition by First Eagle Investments. The all-cash transaction delivered shareholders a 49 percent premium while preserving Diamond Hill’s Columbus headquarters, brand, investment philosophy. Brilliant and her team successfully navigated the complexities of a public-company sale, including shareholder, regulatory and client-consent requirements, completing the transaction in just over four months. Following the acquisition, she continues to lead Diamond Hill while serving as First Eagle’s Chief Operating Officer, helping guide the combined organization’s growth. Accepting the award on Heather’s behalf is Jill Williams, Director, Head of Benefits at First Eagle Investments.
Melinda Gloriosa
Vice President, Investments
R1 Capital
Melinda Gloriosa, Vice President of Investments at R1 Capital, helps drive investment activity supporting emerging companies and entrepreneurs across the United States. R1 Capital has completed investments in more than 150 unique companies, with a venture capital from seed to early-stage in sectors such as AI-enabled software, applied technologies and life sciences. R1 Capital works alongside Rev1 Ventures’ studio and deep partner network to deliver hands on support and a platform that extends well beyond capital. Through her investment leadership, Gloriosa helps identify and support promising businesses at defining moments, providing the capital and resources needed to accelerate innovation, build stronger companies and create long-term value.
Mike Montenaro
CEO
Yardmaster
Yardmaster, led by CEO Mike Montenaro, entered a new phase of growth through its partnership with Unity Partners and the creation of a regional commercial landscaping platform. The transaction brought Columbus-based Yardmaster together with Big Lakes Lawncare of Detroit and Kunco Landscape of Erie, expanding the combined company’s reach across three states. Under Montenaro’s leadership, Yardmaster will serve as the foundation for continued growth through acquisitions, operational investment and expanded capabilities. The partnership also introduces Unity’s Employee Purpose Plan, giving employees a meaningful stake in the company’s financial success while positioning Yardmaster to become a leading regional landscaping services platform.
Suresh Rachuri
Founder & CEO
Elevate Growth Partners (Being recognized for Maven)
Suresh Rachuri, Founder and CEO of Elevate Growth Partners, founded and led Maven through its acquisition by Expeed Software, bringing together two complementary technology organizations. The transaction combined Maven’s technology consulting and advisory expertise with Expeed’s custom software, data analytics and global development capabilities. Maven and Maven Advisory Partners brought expertise spanning AI, data and analytics, application development, cloud, cybersecurity and technology strategy, including relationships with more than 330 technology providers. Under Rachuri’s leadership, Maven built a platform designed to help organizations embrace emerging technologies and accelerate growth, creating a strong strategic fit with Expeed and new opportunities to serve clients worldwide.
Clark Seiling
COO & CFO
Rivera
Clark Seiling, COO and CFO of Rivera, has helped guide the Columbus-based pharmacy data analytics company through a significant period of growth and investment. In 2025, Rivera raised its Series A round of up to $15 million in a venture capital led by MK Capital, which brought the company’s total funding to more than $20 million. Rivera’s technology helps identify pharmacy billing issues and prevent overpayments, addressing critical challenges across the health care industry. With support from investors including JobsOhio Ventures, Rev1 Ventures and Tamarind Hill, Clark has helped position Rivera and its 30-person team for continued growth and innovation.
Thomas Werner
Founder & CEO
Kassel Mechanical
Kassel Mechanical, led by CEO Thomas Werner expanded its capabilities and geographic reach through the acquisitions of Coastal Electric Company of Florida and Henderson Electric Company. The transactions strengthen Kassel Mechanical’s electrical services platform while establishing a broader presence across the Southeast. Coastal Electric will continue serving customers throughout Northern Florida, while Henderson Electric maintains its established operations in the Atlanta market. Both companies retain their leadership teams, operations and identities, providing continuity for employees, customers and partners. Through these strategic acquisitions, Kassel Mechanical is building on the companies’ strong reputations, skilled workforces and customer relationships while creating new opportunities for collaboration and continued growth.
Social Impact Investing
Letha Pugh
Co-Founder & Co-Owner
Bake Me Happy, Prestons and NorthStar Developent Partners
Letha Pugh, Co-Founder and Co-Owner of multiple small businesses, has built entrepreneurship and community impact around a philosophy of collaboration and opportunity. Beyond growing her businesses, Pugh has created a business model that helps individuals reenter the workforce by addressing barriers including housing, childcare and transportation. She recently helped launch Café Overlook, a $4.5 million workforce development project, and co-founded nonprofits supporting hospitality workers and Columbus communities. Through her businesses, civic leadership and advocacy, Pugh demonstrates how entrepreneurship can create meaningful economic and social impact, expanding opportunity while strengthening the people and neighborhoods that businesses serve.