Alumni Spotlight is pleased to announce The Top 100 Chief Operating Officers of 2022. These executive team members are in charge of implementing strategy, managing change, and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the organizations they serve. This year’s awardees span across nearly all industries including education, information technology, food and beverage production, healthcare, civil engineering, tourism, financial services and more. While their responsibilities vary, their overall goal remains the same – to make the company’s vision become a reality. Two of the world’s most well-known COOs, Tim Cook formerly serving in the role with Apple and Sheryl Sandberg of Facebook, are credited with being the key driving force behind their company’s successes. Their track records are an inspiration to many and provide proof that a highly proficient COO will propel a business forward.
Awardee Ana Corrales, a COO with Google, is responsible for bringing their consumer hardware products and services to life by leading every aspect of product development and delivery to their customers around the world. Hans Schroeder, EVP and COO of NFL Media, leads network distribution and manages the organization's relationships with its partners while juggling the strategy of how best to deploy live games across many media platforms. Meanwhile, Starbucks’ Group President for North America and COO, John Culver, has the responsibility of overseeing the business’s store development, marketing, global supply chain, technology and overall functions that drive the Starbucks experience.
This year’s awardees are the key drivers to growing, scaling, and improving their organizations. Please join us in celebrating the achievements of The Top 100 Chief Operating Officers of 2022.
1. Ana Corrales
Chief Operating Officer, Google
Stanford University
Ana Corrales is the Chief Operating Officer for Google’s Consumer Hardware & Services business. As COO, Corrales leads the development process for Google hardware products - the Pixel 6 with Google’s custom silicon, Google Tensor, Pixel Buds, Nest speakers, displays and cameras, Fitbit smartwatches and trackers and more - and manages getting those products into the hands of customers. Corrales also drives the end-to-end IT efforts and customer experience work across the Google Hardware business. Corrales previously led Google Hardware’s first-party retail efforts, including driving the growth of e-commerce channel, Google Store.
Prior to Google, Corrales served as COO and CFO at Nest. She also served as the SVP of product operations at Cisco Systems. In 2006, Corrales co-founded a startup solar company. As the acting CEO, Corrales sold the company in 2010. Corrales is a member of the Women@Google board and is an executive sponsor for HOLA, Google’s Latinx Employee Resource Group. She is also an advisor to Roli, a company reinventing instruments that extend the joy of music-making to everyone and previously served on the board of directors for Watermark, the Bay Area’s largest women leadership organization. Corrales earned a master's in engineering from Stanford University.
2. Jane Brown
Chief Operating Officer, UnitedHealth Group
Dartmouth College
Jane Brown is the Chief Operating Officer of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of North Carolina. She first joined UnitedHealthcare in 2016 as a compliance officer for UHC’s Iowa Health Plan. UnitedHealthcare is a leader in the managed care space, serving millions of Medicaid eligible members across the United States. The North Carolina Plan in particular serves over 400,000 lives and is dedicated to the North Carolinian community it has the honor to serve.
Brown is a results-producing managed care executive with extensive operations and compliance experience, which has been instrumental in the Medicaid transformation efforts in North Carolina. Additionally, she serves on the advisory board for Vital Neural Networks, a Houston based health tech company developing innovative tools for individuals requiring in-home health services. Brown holds three degrees, including a B.S. from the University of Connecticut’s School of Business, a master’s degree from Dartmouth College, and JD from Tulane Law School.
3. Rahul Rajkumar
Chief Operating Officer, Optum
Yale University
Rahul Rajkumar is the Chief Operating Officer of Optum. Optum is a pharmacy benefit manager and health care provider. It has been a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group since 2011. UHG formed Optum by merging its existing pharmacy and care delivery services into the single Optum brand, comprising three main businesses: OptumHealth, OptumInsight and OptumRx. Rajkumar has 18 years of experience. He began his career in 2004.
Before joining Optum, Rajkumar was an SVP and CMO at Blue Cross NC and before that an SVP and CMO at CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield. Earlier in his career he worked with the World Health Organization as an advisor. Rajkumar graduated from Yale University with a JD, an MD in medicine, and an undergraduate degree in history.
4. Anna Torraca
Chief Operating Officer, Ford Motor Company
Stanford University
Anna Torraca began her professional career 22 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Operating Officer of Ford Motor Company. Ford Motor Company is a multinational automobile manufacturer headquartered in Michigan. It was founded by Henry Ford and incorporated in 1903. The company sells automobiles and commercial vehicles under the Ford brand, and luxury cars under its Lincoln luxury brand. Ford introduced methods for large-scale manufacturing of cars and large-scale management of an industrial workforce using elaborately engineered manufacturing sequences typified by moving assembly lines. By 1914, these methods were known around the world as Fordism.
Torraca first got her start in 2000 as an accountant at Voce Telecom. From there, she went on to Lehman Brothers, before eventually rising to become the VP of revenue and commercialization at Cruise Automation, her most recent position prior to joining Ford Motor Company. Torraca graduated from Stanford University with an MBA and from Arizona State University with an undergraduate degree in finance, economics, and sociology.
5. Matt Ramsey
President and Chief Operating Officer, Energy Transfer Partners LP.
The University of Texas at Austin
Matt Ramsey is the President and Chief Operating Officer of Energy Transfer Partners LP. He first joined the company in 2015. Energy Transfer is a Texas based company that began in 1996 as a small intrastate natural gas pipeline operator and is now one of the largest and most diversified investment grade master limited partnerships in the United States. Growing from roughly 200 miles of natural gas pipelines in 2002 to nearly 120,000 miles of natural gas, natural gas liquids (NGLs), refined products, and crude oil pipelines. Energy Transfer LP owns and operates one of the largest and most diversified portfolios of energy assets in North America, with a strategic footprint in all of the major US production basins.
Previously, Ramsey was a president at RPM Exploration, Ltd. Ramsey earned a JD from South Texas College of Law Houston and an undergraduate degree in business, management and marketing from The University of Texas at Austin.
6. Justin Osofsky
Chief Operating Officer, Meta
Harvard University
Justin Osofsky is the Chief Operating Officer of Instagram by Meta and the VP of Global Operations of Meta. He first joined the company in 2008. Meta Platforms, doing business as Meta and formerly known as Facebook, is a multinational technology conglomerate based in Menlo Park, California. The company is the parent organization of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, among other subsidiaries. Meta is one of the world's most valuable companies, and one of the Big Five American information technology companies, alongside Google, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft.
Previously, Osofsky was an engagement manager at McKinsey & Company. Earlier in his career he worked with Gen3 Partners as a consultant and in business development. Osofsky earned an MBA, a JD in law, and an undergraduate degree in economics from Harvard University.
7. Chuck Whitten
Co-Chief Operating Officer, Dell
Rice University
Chuck Whitten is the Co-Chief Operating Officer of Dell. Dell develops, sells, repairs, and supports computers and related products and services. It is well known for its innovations in supply chain management and electronic commerce, particularly its direct-sales model and its build-to-order or configure-to-order approach to manufacturing, delivering individual PCs configured to customer specifications. Dell is the world's third largest personal computer vendor by unit sales as of January 2021. Whitten has over 23 years of experience. He began his career in 1998.
Before joining Dell, Whitten was a partner at Bain & Company. He graduated from Harvard Business School with an MBA and from Rice University with an undergraduate degree in mathematical economics and history.
8. Chris Skowronski
Chief Operating Officer, Munich Re
The University of Chicago
Chris Skowronski began his professional career 24 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Operating Officer of Munich Re Specialty Group NA. Munich Re Group is a multinational insurance company based in Germany. It is one of the world's leading reinsurers and the second largest primary insurer in Germany. As a pioneer in risk assessment, Munich Re drives the digital transformation of the global insurance landscape, expanding products and services as new forms of risk emerge.
Skowronski first got his start in 1998 as a consultant at Accenture. From there, he went on to several ecommerce startups including MVP.com, before eventually rising to become the VP of digital strategy & execution at CNA Insurance. Skowronski joined Munich Re as Chief Digital Officer in 2019 to design and implement a new target operating model and technology platform and later assumed broader operational responsibility as Chief Operating Officer. He graduated from The University of Chicago with an MBA and an undergraduate degree in economics.
9. Jeff Fleeman
Managing Director & Chief Operating Officer, American Electric Power
The Ohio State University
Jeff Fleeman is the Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of American Electric Power. American Electric Power is a firm that invests in companies that focus on clean energy and electricity distribution. American Electric Power has a strong tradition of leadership, service, and contributions to the communities. Its mission is to bring comfort to its customers, supporting business and commerce, and building strong communities. American Electric Power, based in Columbus, Ohio, is powering a cleaner, brighter energy future for its customers and communities. Their approximately 16,800 employees operate and maintain the nation’s largest electricity transmission system and more than 223,000 miles of distribution lines to safely deliver reliable and affordable power to 5.5 million regulated customers in 11 states. Fleeman has over 43 years of experience. He began his career in 1979.
Before joining American Electric Power, Fleeman was a VP at BOLD Transmission and before that, an assistant director of energy management at The Ohio State University. Earlier in his career he worked with National Electric Coil as a product design engineer. Fleemane graduated from The Ohio State University with an MS and an undergraduate degree in electrical engineering.
10. Jose Galvan
Managing Director & Chief Operating Officer, Natixis
Northwestern University
Jose Galvan began his professional career over 22 years ago. Today, he is the Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Natixis. Natixis is a leading global financial institution that provides advisory, investment banking, financing, corporate banking and capital markets services to corporations, financial institutions, financial sponsors and sovereign and supranational organizations worldwide. Their teams of experts in over 25 countries advise clients on their strategic development, helping them to grow and transform their businesses, and maximize their positive impact.
In 2000, Galvan served as the VP for Asia and head of product control and credit at Lehman Brothers, before eventually rising to become the COO of investment banking for the Americas, at Nomura. Galvan graduated from Northwestern University with an undergraduate degree in economics.
11. George Nunn
Chief Operating Officer, BNP Paribas
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
George Nunn is the Chief Operating Officer for Global Markets and Global Banking Americas of BNP Paribas. Banque Nationale de Paris S.A. (BNP) is a French international banking group, the leading European bank in terms of business and profitability, with US$3000 billion assets as of 2021, and the 7th largest international banking group present in 68 countries. With almost 193,000 employees, the bank is organized into three major business areas including retail banking, investment & protection services, and corporate & institutional banking. Nunn has over 31 years in the banking industry. He began his career in 1991.
Before joining BNP Paribas, Nunn was a head of interest rate derivatives trading for the Americas at HSBC and before that a head of interest rate options trading for Europe at Credit Suisse. Earlier in his career he worked with BNP Paribas as a senior interest rate derivatives trader. Nunn graduated from Massachusetts Institute of Technology with an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering and management.
12. Essya Hanachi
Chief Operating Officer for Finance, Citi
Georgetown University
Essya Hanachi is the Chief Operating Officer for Finance of Citi, the global institution connecting millions of people across hundreds of countries and cities. Citi's mission is to serve as a trusted partner to their clients by responsibly providing financial services that enable growth and economic progress. Their core activities are safeguarding assets, lending money, making payments, and accessing the capital markets on behalf of their clients. Hanachi began her career in 1994.
Before joining Citi, Hanachi was a CFO of Chase card services at JPMorgan Chase & Co. and before that a global controller at BGC Partners. Earlier in her career she worked with JP Morgan as an associate. Hanachi graduated from Columbia Business School with an MBA and from Georgetown University McDonough School of Business with an undergraduate degree in accounting.
13. David Leach
Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, McLane Company
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
David Leach began his professional career nearly 14 years ago. Today, he is the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of McLane Company. McLane, started in 1894 as a small retail grocery store in downtown Cameron, Texas, is now a wholesale supply chain services company which distributes grocery and non-food to convenience stores, discount retailers, wholesale clubs, drug stores, military bases, quick service restaurants, and casual dining restaurants throughout the United States. It is also a wholesale distributor of distilled spirits, wine, and beer in some US states.
Prior to joining McLane, Leach was with MBM Foodservice as VP of operations. Leach graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with an undergraduate degree in industrial relations.
14. Justin Oppenheimer
Chief Operating Officer & Chief Strategy Officer, Hospital for Special Surgery
Princeton University
Justin Oppenheimer is the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Strategy Officer of HSS, the world’s leading academic medical center specialized in musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, ranked #1 in orthopedics globally and nationally and top-ranked for rheumatology and rehabilitation. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation, and education.
Prior to joining HSS in 2013, Oppenheimer was a management consultant at the Monitor Group (now Monitor Deloitte) where he served as an engagement manager for the strategy practice. Oppenheimer is a co-founder of EngagedHealth, an annual summit for national healthcare leaders. He also serves on the board of directors for Urban Dove, a New York-based charter school management organization. Oppenheimer graduated from Harvard Business School with an MBA and from Princeton University with an undergraduate degree in political economy and finance.
15. Chris Salata
Industrial Commercial Properties LLC
University of Notre Dame
Chris Salata is the Chief Operating Officer for Industrial Commercial Properties LLC. Salata oversees the daily operations of the company and the work of its executives. In his role, he works closely with the owner to design and implement business strategies, plans and procedures. Salata is actively involved in all of the company’s investments, acquisitions, corporate alliances, financings and expansion activities. He also plays a key role in managing the company’s relationships with partners, tenants and vendors. During his tenure, the company’s value has more than doubled to $1.8B and the portfolio has grown to over 150 properties totaling 47 million square feet with more than 350 tenants.
Salata was formerly Senior Vice President of Development at DDR Corp. (DDR), where he oversaw nationwide development and redevelopment initiatives for the publicly traded real estate investment trust. Prior to joining DDR, Salata was a Principal at Fairmount Properties and served as Chief Investment Officer and General Counsel. During his time at Fairmount Properties, he served as the lead project executive on Pinecrest, a $240MM mixed-use development project in Orange Village, OH. Salata started his career as an attorney with McDonald Hopkins LLC, practicing in the firm’s business department, handling matters related to real estate, finance and corporate mergers and acquisitions. Salata earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame and a JD from Case Western Reserve University School of Law.
16. Andy Pate
Chief Operating Officer, Fresenius Medical Care
Johns Hopkins University
Andy Pate is the Chief Operating Officer of Fresenius Medical Care. Fresenius Medical Care is a German healthcare company, and the world's leading provider of products and dialysis services for individuals with chronic kidney failure. The company serves 345,096 patients and primarily treats end-stage renal disease, which requires patients to undergo dialysis 3 times per week for the rest of their lives. Pate has over 21 years in the hospital & health care industry. He began his career in 2000.
Before joining Fresenius Medical Care, Pate was a general manager at GE Healthcare. Pate graduated from The Johns Hopkins University with a master’s degree in environmental engineering and from Tennessee Technological University with an undergraduate degree in civil engineering.
17. LuAnn Brady
Chief Operating Officer, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
LuAnn Brady is a seasoned senior healthcare executive with operational and strategic experience and a passion for convening and motivating interdisciplinary teams to drive and sustain outcomes. Currently, she is the Chief Operating Officer at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, a 1,190 licensed bed teaching hospital of the University of Pennsylvania Raymond and Ruth Perelman School of Medicine. She is an experienced executive with leadership experience in community hospitals, multi-hospital systems and academic medical centers with a broad set of competencies in strategic planning, mergers & acquisitions, operational management, service line development and team leadership. Her expertise is working collaboratively and effectively across complex health systems to align providers and administrative leaders to advance efficient and patient-focused care.
Brady has a master’s in public health with a concentration in health policy and administration from University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and an undergraduate degree in English and economics management from Salem College. She is a member of various health-care related associations and actively involved in the community and neighborhood groups that focus on improving health and wellness in underserved communities.
18. Hans Schroeder
EVP and Chief Operating Officer, National Football League
Princeton University
Hans Schroeder began his professional career over 25 years ago. Today, he is the EVP and Chief Operating Officer of Media for the National Football League. The NFL, formed in 1920, consists of 32 teams, divided equally between the National Football Conference (NFC) and the American Football Conference (AFC). The NFL is one of the four major North American professional sports leagues and the highest professional level of American football in the world.
Schroeder first got his start in 1996 as an investment banking analyst in corporate finance and M&A at Merrill Lynch. From there, he went on to Ask Jeeves as director of corporate development, his most recent position prior to joining the National Football League. Schroeder graduated from Princeton University with an undergraduate degree.
19. Bob Pragada
President and Chief Operating Officer, Jacobs Engineering
Stanford University
Bob Pragada is the President and Chief Operating Officer of Jacobs Engineering. He first joined the company in 2016 as president of global industrial and buildings and infrastructure groups. Jacobs Engineering is an American international technical professional services firm. The company provides technical, professional and construction services, as well as scientific and specialty consulting for a broad range of clients globally, including companies, organizations, and government agencies. Jacobs has consistently ranked highly for their engineering and technology services.
Previously, Pragada was a president and CEO at Brock Group. Earlier in his career he worked with Kinetics as their COO. Pragada earned an MS in engineering and management from Stanford University and an undergraduate degree in systems engineering from United States Naval Academy.
20. Leo Alaniz
Chief Operating Officer - Investments, Northern Trust
Yale University
Leo Alaniz is the Chief Operating Officer of Investments in Wealth Management at Northern Trust. He first joined the company in 2011 as Head of Strategy and Global Marketing, Corporate & Institutional Services. Northern Trust is a preeminent global financial institution that provides asset servicing, investment management and wealth management services for institutions, high-net-worth individuals and families. For more than a century, Northern Trust has built a legacy of outstanding service, expertise and integrity for its client franchise across its global network.
Previously, Leo was a VP of Strategy at BMO Financial Group and before that was a Consultant at McKinsey & Company. He earned an MBA in General Management from Harvard Business School, an MPhil in European Studies from the University of Cambridge, and a BA in Biology and International studies from Yale University.
21. Mary Foster
Central Region Chief Operating Officer, Aon
Northwestern University
Mary Foster is the Central Region Chief Operating Officer of Aon. Aon, created in 1982, is a British-American professional services firm that sells a range of financial risk-mitigation products, including insurance, pension administration, and health-insurance plans. Aon's services include commercial risk solutions, reinsurance solutions, retirement solutions, health solutions, and data and analytic services. Foster has over 23 years in the financial services industry. She began her career in 1998.
Foster first got her start in 1998 with Aon as a senior accountant. She moved on in several leadership roles including financial planning advisor, VP of operations, financial officer, and portfolio leader. Foster graduated from The University of Texas at Dallas with an MS in accounting and from Northwestern University with an undergraduate degree in organizational studies.
22. Shelly Anderson
EVP and Chief Operating Officer, Brigham and Women's Hospital
Georgetown University
Shelly Anderson began her professional career 27 years ago. Today, she is the EVP and Chief Operating Officer of Brigham and Women's Hospital. Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), a 793-bed teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School, is recognized internationally for its excellence and innovation in patient care, biomedical research, and education and training programs for physicians, scientists, and health care professionals. In addition, they are committed to health equity and reducing disparities locally and through its numerous global health programs. They are recognized for their expertise in heart and vascular care, cancer care, orthopedic and arthritis treatment, neurologic and neurosurgical care, women's health, and virtually every other area of adult medicine.
Anderson first got her start in 1995 as a partner at Stockamp & Associates. From there, she went on to Huron Consulting Group as managing director, her most recent position prior to joining Brigham and Women's Hospital. Anderson graduated from Georgetown University with a master’s degree in public policy management and from Concordia College with an undergraduate degree in healthcare administration.
23. Michael Neary
Chief Operating Officer, Structure Tone
Princeton University
Michael Neary began his professional career over 38 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Operating Officer of Structure Tone. They provide a complete range of services, from site selection analysis, design constructability review and aesthetic enhancements to interior fit-outs, new building construction, and building infrastructure upgrades and modernization. The company is part of STO Building Group and includes over 4,000 employees located in offices throughout the US, Canada, UK, and Ireland.
Neary has spent the past 38 years serving in various roles with Structure Tone. Neary graduated from Princeton University.
24. Chad Galvez
Chief Operating Officer, LocShark
University of Wisconsin - Madison
Chad Galvez is the Chief Operating Officer of LocShark. He first joined the company in 2015. LocShark is the smartest case for mobile technology. Its cases use a unique locking mechanism that only the device administrator can remotely control. Equipped with cellular GPS/GSM technology, the cases can be tracked through SMS, mobile app, or the website. With a 72-hour battery life, their customers have more than enough time to locate their device, even if it's powered off or the battery is dead.
Previously, Galvez was a strategic innovation director at USAA and before that a contract negotiator at The University of Texas at San Antonio. Earlier in his career he worked with the United States Air Force as a contracting officer. Galvez earned an MBA from Florida International University and an undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin - Madison.
25. John Burkhart
Chief Operating Officer, Hunt Oil Company
Harvard University
John Burkhart is the Chief Operating Officer of Hunt Oil Company. Hunt Oil Company is one of the largest privately held companies in the United States, operating both domestically and internationally. With more than 80 years of leadership in the exploration and production industry, Hunt Oil Company found its original success in the East Texas oil fields. Today, the company is actively engaged in exploration and production activities in numerous areas of the United States and around the world. Burkhart has 27 years of experience. He began his career in 1995.
Before joining Hunt Oil Company, Burkhart was in portfolio planning at General Motors. Burkhart graduated from The Wharton School with an MBA and from Harvard University with an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering.
26. Raghu Krishnaiah
Chief Operating Officer, University of Phoenix
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Raghu Krishnaiah is an innovative leader experienced at turning transformative products and business concepts into successful global companies. His career as a seasoned change agent and strategist spans more than 20 years of progressive P&L management, strategy, sales and marketing, product development, operations, technology, and Board responsibilities. Krishnaiah currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer at University of Phoenix, where he is instrumental in the transformation of the University and responsible for all operating strategy and results.
Before joining University of Phoenix, Krishnaiah held the role of chief operating officer at Western Governors University, where he led significant growth in student learning outcomes. Prior to Western Governors University, Krishnaiah worked as senior vice president at Kaplan Higher Education Group, and has served in a number of leadership roles throughout his career, overseeing large operational infrastructures at complex global organizations in financial services, management consulting, and technology industries. Krishnaiah earned both an undergraduate degree in electrical engineering and computer science and a master’s in electrical engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), as well as an MBA from The Wharton School at University of Pennsylvania.
27. Eric Beck
Chief Operating Officer, University Hospitals
John Carroll University
Eric Beck is the Chief Operating Officer of University Hospitals. Founded in 1866, University Hospitals serves the needs of patients through an integrated network of 23 hospitals (including 5 joint ventures), more than 50 health centers and outpatient facilities, and over 200 physician offices in 16 counties throughout northern Ohio. The system’s flagship quaternary care, academic medical center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, is affiliated with Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Oxford University and the Technion Israel Institute of Technology. Beck has over 21 years in the hospital & health care industry. He began his career in 2001.
Before joining University Hospitals, Beck was a president and CEO at University of North Texas Health Science Center and before that a CEO and executive committee member at Ascension At Home. Earlier in his career she worked with Willoughby Hills Fire Department as a firefighter and paramedic. Beck graduated from John Carroll University with an undergraduate degree.
28. Adam Karon
Chief Operating Officer & General Manager, Akamai
Florida State University
Adam Karon began his professional career over 28 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Operating Officer and General Manager of Akamai. Akamai is the leading content delivery network (CDN) services provider for media and software delivery, and cloud security solutions. The company operates a network of servers around the world and rents out capacity on these servers to customers who want their websites to work faster by distributing content from locations near the user.
Karon first got his start in 1994 as a director of technology at Transportation Components, Inc., before eventually rising to client director of general electric at Leftbrain, Inc., his most recent position prior to joining Akamai. Karon graduated from Florida Atlantic University with an MBA and from Florida State University with an undergraduate degree in computer science.
29. Matthew Franz
Chief Operating Officer, Plastipak
Washington University in St. Louis
Matthew Franz is the Chief Operating Officer of Plastipak. Plastipak is a world leader in the packaging and recycling industries. It designs and manufactures high-quality, rigid plastic containers for the food, beverage, and consumer products industries. With innovation as a key driver, Plastipak operates at more than 50 sites across the globe. Their affiliate companies are Clean Tech, which recycles over 200 million pounds of plastic per year; and Whiteline Express, a trucking and logistics management company that logs over 25 million miles a year.
Franz first joined Plastipak in 2017 as SVP before moving on to become the VP of manufacturing. Previously, Franz was a director of operations at Amcor Rigid Plastics. He dedicated several years to the US Army where he was a captain stationed in Germany. Franz earned an MBA and an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering from Washington University in St. Louis.
30. George Hu
Chief Operating Officer, Twilio
Harvard University
George Hu is the Chief Operating Officer of Twilio. He first joined the company in 2017. Twilio has democratized communications channels like voice, text, chat, video, and email by virtualizing the world’s communications infrastructure through APIs that are simple enough for any developer to use, yet robust enough to power the world’s most demanding applications. By making communications a part of every software developer’s toolkit, Twilio is enabling innovators across every industry from emerging leaders to the world’s largest organizations to reinvent how companies engage with their customers.
Hu was a founder of Peer - Feedback at work and before that a COO at Salesforce.com. Earlier in his career he worked with NorthPoint Communications as a product manager. Hu earned an MBA from Stanford University Graduate School of Business and an undergraduate degree in economics from Harvard University.
31. Matthew Bromberg
Chief Operating Officer, Zynga
Cornell University
Matthew Bromberg is the Chief Operating Officer of Zynga. Zynga is a global leader in interactive entertainment with a mission to connect the world through games. With massive global reach in more than 175 countries and regions, Zynga has a diverse portfolio of popular game franchises that have been downloaded more than four billion times on mobile. Founded in 2007, Zynga is headquartered in California with locations in North America, Europe and Asia. Bromberg has 23 years of experience. He began his career in 1999.
Before joining Zynga, Bromberg was an SVP of strategy and operations at Electronic Arts and before that a founder at I'mOK Inc. Earlier in his career he worked with AOL as an SVP and general manager of Moviefone. Bromberg graduated from Harvard Law School with a JD and from Cornell University with an undergraduate degree in English.
32. Charlie Reuland
Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, The Johns Hopkins Hospital
University of Michigan
Charlie Reuland began his professional career 21 years ago. Today, he is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of The Johns Hopkins Hospital. The Johns Hopkins Hospital, founded in 1889, is the teaching hospital and biomedical research facility of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, located in Baltimore, Maryland. They are considered to be the founding institutions of modern American medicine and the birthplace of numerous famous medical traditions including rounds, residents and house staff. Johns Hopkins Hospital was ranked by the US News & World Report news magazine as the best overall hospital in America for 21 consecutive years.
Reuland graduated from The Johns Hopkins University with an ScD in health policy and management and from the University of Michigan with an undergraduate degree.
33. Sebastien Katch
Chief Operating Officer, Truck Hero
Carnegie Mellon University
Sebastien Katch is the Chief Operating Officer of Truck Hero. He first joined the company in 2021. Headquartered in Michigan, Truck Hero provides consumers a full range of branded automotive accessories for trucks, Jeeps and cars, with market leading functionality, engineering, quality, and design. The breadth of Truck Hero’s product offering is vast, including hard and soft truck bed covers, truck caps, bed liners, floor liners, fender flares, steps, suspension kits, Ventvisors, Jeep parts, and off-road accessories. All of the companies in the Truck Hero family are recognized as premier brands and are leaders in innovation.
Previously, Katch was an operating partner at L'Catterton and before that an associate principal at McKinsey & Company. Earlier in his career he worked with Pratt & Whitney as a product design engineer. Katch earned an MBA from Carnegie Mellon University - Tepper School of Business, a master’s degree in international finance from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, a master's degree in aerospace, aeronautical and astronautical engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering from McGill University.
34. William Hahn
Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Harvard University
William Hahn is the William Rosenberg Professor of Medicine in the Department of Medical Oncology at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School and, since 2020, serves as an Executive Vice President and the Chief Operating Officer at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a world-renowned comprehensive cancer treatment and research institute and the founding member of the Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center. DFCI employs more than 6000 staff, faculty, and clinicians supporting more than 640,000 annual outpatient visits, more than 1,000 hospital discharges per year, and has over 1,100 open clinical trials.
As a cancer researcher, Hahn has made numerous discoveries that have informed our current molecular understanding of cancer and have formed the foundation of new translational studies. The tools, models and approaches that his laboratory has developed are widely used worldwide to discover and validate molecularly targeted cancer therapies. Hahn received his undergraduate, medical and graduate degrees from Harvard University and has been a faculty member at DFCI and Harvard Medical School since 1999. He has been awarded the Ho-Am Prize in Medicine (2010), the Richard and Hinda Rosenthal Award from AACR (2015) and the Claire and Richard Morse Award (2019). He has been elected to the American Society for Clinical Investigation, American Association of Physicians and the National Academy of Medicine.
35. Bryan Wright
Chief Operating Officer, Authority Brands
The Ohio State University
Bryan Wright began his professional career over 29 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Operating Officer of Authority Brands. Authority Brands is a leading franchisor of 12 home-service franchise brands. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, Authority Brands supports more than 1,700 franchise locations operated by more than 800 franchise owners in the United States, Canada, and Latin America. Authority Brands is dedicated to supporting franchise owners with its cornerstones of providing best in class training and operational support, marketing systems, and cutting-edge technology.
Wright first got his start in 1993 as a project manager at CM Architects. From there, he went on to The Righter Company, before eventually rising to become the VP of finance, strategic sourcing and procurement at Tailored Brands, his most recent position prior to joining Authority Brands. Wright graduated from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business with an MBA in finance and from The Ohio State University with an undergraduate degree in industrial design.
36. Bradley Campbell
President & Chief Operating Officer, Amicus Therapeutics
Duke University
Bradley Campbell is the President and Chief Operating Officer of Amicus Therapeutics and is also a member of the Board of Directors. He brings 20 years of experience in the Orphan Drug industry. Campbell joined Amicus in 2006 and leads the global organization responsible for the commercialization of Galafold®. He also oversees the technical operations, market access, program management, clinical operations, and regulatory affairs functions.
Campbell currently serves on a number of Boards including the Alliance for Regenerative Medicine (ARM), and the Corporate Advisory Board for the National Tay-Sachs and Allied Diseases Association. He previously served on the Board of ARYA Sciences Acquisition Corp III, a healthcare focused Special Purpose Acquisition Vehicle, as well as Progenics Pharmaceuticals from 2016 until its successful acquisition by Lantheus Holdings in 2020. Prior to Amicus, Campbell spent time in various commercial and business development roles at Genzyme and Bristol-Myers Squibb and as a strategy consultant for Marakon Associates. He received an undergraduate degree in public policy studies from Duke University and an MBA from Harvard Business School.
37. Allan Latts
Chief Operating Officer, Heaven Hill Distilleries
Duke University
Allan Latts began his professional career over 30 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Operating Officer of Heaven Hill Distilleries. Heaven Hill Brands is America's largest family-owned and operated distilled spirits producer and marketer. The company has grown beyond its traditional roots as a Bourbon distillery to become the country's sixth largest distilled spirits producer and marketer with a portfolio of well-known, innovative, and relevant products. In addition, Heaven Hill has seen its export business grow significantly with products now shipped to more than 100 countries worldwide.
Latts first got his start in 1991 as business systems analyst at American Management Systems. From there, he went on to Procter & Gamble as financial analyst for Folgers Coffee, his most recent position prior to joining Heaven Hill Distilleries. Latts graduated from Duke University with an MBA and with an undergraduate degree in public policy studies.
38. John Sheehan
Chief Operating Officer, UnityPoint Health
University of Wisconsin - Madison
John Sheehan is the Chief Operating Officer of UnityPoint Health. He first joined the company in 2019 as the VP of health operations. UnityPoint Health works together as a team to champion high-quality, low-cost care. With annual revenues of $4.4 billion, their providers and services span hospitals, clinics and at home settings across Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin. Their presence in metropolitan and rural communities allows them to innovate through partnerships with organizations outside of healthcare. Their family of more than 30,000 team members remains dedicated to shared values that put their people first.
Previously, Sheehan was a president and SVP at UW Health and before that an executive VP, COO, regional VP of UnityPoint Health. Over the span of his career, he has served in executive leadership roles with organizations like ThedaCare, Geisinger Health System and Centura Health. He is board certified in healthcare management and has a strong history in strategic planning, hospital and group practice operations, physician relations and alignment. Sheehan is a fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Madison with an undergraduate degree in economics and from Saint Louis University with a master’s degree in healthcare administration.
39. Dominic N. Lacy
Chief Operating Officer, Gallaudet University
Southern Methodist University
Dominic Lacy is the first-ever Chief Operating Officer at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. He assumed this role in January 2020, and almost immediately pivoted to a major role with the university’s COVID-19 leadership team. He oversees over 200 people in a myriad of units, including business development, campus services, campus design and facilities, human resources, information technology, American Sign Language interpreting, public safety, real estate, and local government affairs. He also serves on the university president’s executive leadership team.
As COO, Lacy ensures there is high-level administrative and operational support for the university community, including the Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center for K-12 students, and providing strategic leadership and direction to assure agile and responsive infrastructure and personnel to fulfill the university’s mission. He oversees developing effective teams and operations throughout the university and strengthening innovation and entrepreneurship as part of the university’s culture. This includes supporting the university through its current undertaking; a large transformation of technology, operating models, and streamlining business processes to support the student experience. Lacy was previously Chief Innovation Officer at Communication Service for the Deaf (CSD), based in Austin, Texas. He worked in the consulting industry across several sectors for 14 years. He received an undergraduate degree in finance from Southern Methodist University and is currently in the process of obtaining his EMBA from the program at IE Brown Executive MBA.
40. James Liakakos
Chief Operating Officer, True Food Kitchen
Cornell University
James Liakakos is the Chief Operating Officer of True Food Kitchen. True Food Kitchen is a health-focused restaurant chain with 23 locations in 10 states. It is the only restaurant fundamentally based on science which ensures all of its craveable dishes and drinks work to increase the longevity of our people and planet. It focuses on serving healthy, sustainable, and organic food with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. Dr. Andrew Weil, founder of True Food Kitchen and renowned doctor of integrative medicine, carefully selected and hand-crafted every single ingredient on the restaurant’s menu into signature dishes. Liakakos has nearly 15 years in the restaurant industry. He began his career in 2007.
Before joining True Food Kitchen, Liakakos was a VP of operations at Jean-Georges Management and before that a director of restaurants at Starr Restaurant Organization. Earlier in his career he worked with Jean-Georges Management as the director of restaurant services. Liakakos graduated from Cornell University with an undergraduate degree in hotel administration.
41. Jeff Titterton
Chief Operating Officer, Zendesk
Cornell University
Jeff Titterton is the Chief Operating Officer of Zendesk. Zendesk is a customer service platform that develops software to empower organizations to improve customer engagement and better understand their customers. Zendesk products are easy to use and implement. They give organizations the flexibility to move quickly, focus on innovation, and scale with their growth. Titterton has over 26 years of experience. He began his career in 1996.
Before joining Zendesk, Titterton was a head of global campaign marketing, engagement marketing, and SMB at Adobe and before that a chief marketing officer at 99designs. Earlier in his career he worked with Future US as a managing editor. Titterton graduated from Cornell University with an undergraduate degree in English and economics.
42. Raphael Shure
Chief Operating Officer, Aderant
Cornell University
Raphael Shure began his professional career 18 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Operating Officer of Aderant. Aderant, headquartered in Georgia, is a global industry leader that provides comprehensive business management software for law firms and other professional services organizations. The company’s popular technology brands include Aderant Expert for practice management, Handshake and Drive for knowledge management, iTimekeep, OCG Live & Thrive for timekeeping and compliance, BillBlast for eBilling, CompuLaw for docketing and calendaring, and Expert Case for legal case management. Aderant operates as a unit of Roper Technologies.
Shure first got his start in 2004 as an analyst at Mesirow Financial. From there, he went on to Cambridge Associates before eventually rising to become a senior associate at Thoma Bravo, his most recent position prior to joining Aderant. Shure graduated from the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business with an MBA and from Cornell University with an undergraduate degree in government and economics.
43. James Yan
Chief Operating Officer, Zai Lab
University of Chicago
James Yan is the Chief Operating Officer of Research & Development of Zai Lab. He first joined the company as EVP and head of pre-clinical development. Zai Lab, founded in 2014, is an innovative, research-based, commercial stage biopharmaceutical company based in China and the US. They are focused on bringing transformative medicines for cancer, autoimmune and infectious diseases to patients in China and around the world.
Previously, Yan was an executive director and site lead at Covance and before that an executive director and head of drug safety evaluation at Hutchison Medipharma. Earlier in his career he worked with Pfizer as a senior research scientist, senior principal scientist and manager. Yan earned a PhD from Peking Union Medical University and completed post-doctoral training at the University of Chicago’s Ben-May Institute for Cancer Research.
44. Mark Wagner
Chief Operating Officer, Moody Bible Institute
Northern Kentucky University
Mark Wagner is the Chief Operating Officer at Moody Bible Institute. Moody Bible Institute is an accredited college of higher education. They have been preparing students for ministry, with a combination of biblical knowledge and ministry experience. More than 40,000 students have graduated from Moody and serve in 110 countries. In addition to its college, Moody is America’s leading radio broadcaster, Internet content provider, and book publishing company. Moody radio consists of 36 owned radio stations across the country.
Before joining Moody Bible Institute, Wagner served 40 years in various positions at Walgreens, including president, treasurer, and president of Walgreens real-estate investment company. Wagner graduated from Western New England University with an MBA in hospital and health care management and from Northern Kentucky University with an undergraduate degree in marketing.
45. Joseph Diaz
Chief Operating Officer, Didlake
Rutgers University
Joseph Diaz is the Chief Operating Officer of Didlake. He first joined the company in 2020. Didlake is an internationally accredited nonprofit agency with the mission of creating opportunities that enrich the lives of people with disabilities. It provides rehabilitative services including supported employment and day support services for individuals with disabilities living and working in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC. In addition to its rehabilitative services, they provide administrative and IT support services, facilities support services, and logistics on 37 contracts serving federal, state, county, and city governments.
Previously, Diaz was an SVP of operations at SourceAmerica and before that he served as an executive director for the East region. Diaz earned a master’s degree in clinical and medical social work from Rutgers University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from Rowan University.
46. John Gallagher
Chief Operating Officer, Arrow International
University of Notre Dame
John Gallagher is the Chief Operating Officer of Arrow International. Founded in 1967, Arrow International is the world’s largest manufacturer of charitable gaming solutions with over 1,000 employees worldwide, providing profit-generating entertainment solutions to thousands of charitable gaming venues. With over 50 years of industry experience and facilities in North America and Europe, Arrow provides the highest quality gaming products and the most reliable service in the industry. Gallagher has 34 years of experience. He began his career in 1988.
Gallagher graduated from the University of Notre Dame with an undergraduate degree in business administration.
47. Greg Akins
President & Chief Operating Officer, Wine Warehouse
The University of Texas at Austin
Greg Akins began his professional career 33 years ago. Today, he is the President and Chief Operating Officer of Wine Warehouse. Wine Warehouse was founded in 1973 by brothers Bob and Jim Myerson who wanted to share their enthusiasm for premium quality wine. Today, the company is one of the largest distributors of alcoholic beverages in the United States with branches in Northern and Southern California covering the state. It is dedicated to offering a wide selection of wine, beer, spirits, non-alcoholic beverages, and glassware to licensed retailers and restaurateurs in the California market. Under the leadership of their dynamic executive team, including second-generation owners, Wine Warehouse continues a tradition of bringing superb products to California supported by an unsurpassed team of dedicated professionals
Akins graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with an undergraduate degree.
48. Andrew Reid
Chief Operating Officer, Zonda
University of California - Berkeley
Andrew Reid is the Chief Operating Officer of Zonda. He first joined the company in 2018. Zonda (formerly Meyers Research/ Hanley Wood/ Metrostudy) is a leading brand in residential construction that provides data-driven housing market solutions to the homebuilding and multifamily industries. From builders to building product manufacturers, mortgage clients, and multifamily executives, the company works hand-in-hand with their customers to streamline access to housing data to empower smarter decisions.
Previously, Reid was a chief data officer at Hanley Wood and before that a president at Metrostudy. Earlier in his career he worked with Robertson Stephens as a financial analyst in investment banking. Reid earned an undergraduate degree in economics from the University of California - Berkeley.
49. Tom Doran
EVP & Chief Operating Officer, Highmark
Princeton University
Tom Doran is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Highmark. He first joined the company in 2018 as the chief financial officer. Highmark is one of America's leading health insurance organizations and an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. Highmark and its affiliated health plans work passionately to deliver high-quality, accessible, understandable and affordable experiences, outcomes and solutions to its customers. As the fourth-largest overall Blue Cross Blue Shield-affiliated organization, Highmark and its Blue-branded affiliates proudly cover the insurance needs of more than 6 million members in Pennsylvania, Delaware, New York and West Virginia.
Previously, Doran was a president and CEO at HM Insurance Group and before that a president at Medical Risk Managers. Earlier in his career he worked with Grumman Aerospace as an engineer. Doran earned an undergraduate degree in aerospace engineering from Princeton University.
50. Troy Dunmire
EVP & Chief Operating Officer, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
University of South Florida
Troy Dunmire began his professional career over 26 years ago. Today, he is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is the largest nonprofit dedicated to creating a world without blood cancers. Since 1949, they’ve invested more than $1.3 billion in groundbreaking research, pioneering many of today’s most innovative approaches. They work tirelessly to find cures and ensure patients can access the lifesaving treatments they need. When someone experiences the fear and uncertainty of a cancer diagnosis, they provide hope, compassion, education, and support.
Dunmire first got his start in 1996 in various retail store leadership positions at Gap. From there, he went on to Banana Republic and Old Navy before eventually rising to Senior Vice President of Stores & Operations for Gap North America prior to joining The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Dunmire graduated from the University of South Florida, Muma College of Business with an undergraduate degree in marketing and is currently pursuing an MBA at Purdue University Global.
51. Michael Richardson
Chief Operating Officer, SugarCreek
The Ohio State University
Michael Richardson is the Chief Operating Officer of SugarCreek. SugarCreek was founded in Ohio in 1966 as a manufacturer of raw bacon. Today, the company has grown into a diversified, innovative and extraordinarily flexible food manufacturer with six major facilities. SugarCreek’s core competency is operational excellence in packaged foods for retail and food service channels, providing a wide-ranging, value-added assortment of raw and fully-cooked products for domestic and international customers across all channels of trade. Richardson has over 20 years of experience. He began his career in 2002.
Richardson graduated from The Ohio State University with an undergraduate degree in business administration.
52. Jeff Hurst
Chief Operating Officer, Expedia Group
The University of Texas at Austin
Jeff Hurst is the Chief Operating Officer of Expedia Group. Expedia is an online travel agency. It enables users to access a wide range of services. It books airline tickets, hotel reservations, car rentals, cruises, vacation packages, and various attractions and services via the internet and telephone travel agents. Its primary web businesses include Expedia.com, Hotels.com, Hotwire.com, and Egencia.com. It also offers services for corporate travel and travel services in Europe and Asia. Hurst has over 21 years of experience. He began his career in 2001.
Before joining Expedia Group, Hurst was a president at Vrbo and before that a chief commercial officer at HomeAway.com. Earlier in his career he worked with McKinsey as a business analyst. Hurst graduated from Stanford University Graduate School of Business with an MBA and from The University of Texas at Austin with an undergraduate degree in finance and business.
53. Donovan Campbell
Executive Vice President & General Manager, Accolade
Princeton University
Donovan Campbell is the Executive Vice President and General Manager of Accolade Care Solutions, an innovative virtual care service providing patients access to integrated primary and mental health care via app or web. Previously, Campbell was COO of 2nd.MD from 2018 through its acquisition by Accolade in 2021. In that role, he led 2nd.MD through a period of significant growth as it expanded its unique, real-time expert medical specialist video consultation service to cover over eight million people.
In addition to his roles with Accolade, Campbell serves as a co-founder and board member of NextOp, a Houston-based non-profit that recruits, trains, and mentors veterans to place them into meaningful careers in industry. Since inception, NextOp has placed nearly 3,000 veterans into well-paying jobs post-military. Before entering the business world, Campbell served as a Marine Corps infantry and intelligence officer, completing three combat deployments with the United States Marine Corps in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Campbell was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor for his time in Iraq and the Defense Meritorious Service Medal for his time in Afghanistan. He is also the author of two memoirs, Joker One and The Leaders Code, detailing his military experience. Campbell graduated with high honors in history from Princeton University and holds an MBA from the Harvard Business School, where he was named a Baker Scholar for finishing in the top 5%.
54. Dennis Thomas
Chief Operating Officer, Bongards Premium Cheese
Eastern Illinois University
Dennis Thomas is the Chief Operating Officer of Bongards Premium Cheese. He first joined the company in 2019. As a farmer-owned co-op since 1908, Bongards has the cheese-making expertise to meet their customer’s cheese needs. People choose Bongards for wholesome, premium cheeses crafted to their unique specifications and sourced responsibly. Their experienced research and development team works with customers to introduce new, unique flavor profiles and products that are in high demand.
Previously, Thomas was a plant manager at DairiConcepts and before that a director of operations at Foremost Farms USA. Earlier in his career he worked with Gold Bond Ice Cream as a lab supervisor. Thomas earned an MBA from Eastern Illinois University and an undergraduate degree in dairy science from South Dakota State University.
55. Sage Pagano
Chief Operating Officer, Linedata
The Johns Hopkins University
Sage Pagano is the Chief Operating Officer of Linedata. Linedata is a global provider of software, services and value-added data dedicated to the financial sector. For more than 20 years, Linedata has been helping its clients – asset managers, institutional and alternative asset managers, fund administrators and lending and leasing institutions – meet their challenges with innovative and effective solutions. Pagano has 24 years of experience. She began her career in 1998.
Before joining Linedata, Pagano was a UK equity business manager at CIBC. Earlier in her career she worked with Fidelity Investments as an international trader. Pagano graduated from The Johns Hopkins University with an undergraduate degree in pre-med
56. Sarah Robbins
Chief Operating Officer, 21c Museum Hotels
Cornell University
Sarah Robbins began her professional career over 26 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Operating Officer of 21c Museum Hotels. 21c Museum Hotels, launched in 2006 by philanthropists and art collectors, is a Louisville-based combination contemporary art museum and boutique hotel chain. As of 2018, it has been acquired by AccorHotels and manages properties in 9 states.
Robbins first got her start in 1995 as a restaurant manager at Tribeca Grill. From there, she went on to Myriad Restaurant Group as project director, her most recent position prior to joining 21c Museum Hotels. Robbins graduated from Cornell University with an undergraduate degree in hotel administration.
57. Emilie Choi
President & Chief Operating Officer, Coinbase
The Johns Hopkins University
Emilie Choi is the President and Chief Operating Officer of Coinbase. She first joined the company in 2018. Founded in June of 2012, Coinbase is a digital currency wallet and platform where merchants and consumers can transact with new digital currencies like bitcoin, ethereum, and litecoin. Its vision is to bring more innovation, efficiency, and equality of opportunity to the world by building an open financial system. Its first step on that journey is making digital currency accessible and approachable for everyone. Their goals are to be the most trusted company in its domain and to create user-focused products that are easier and more intuitive to use.
Previously, Choi was a VP and head of corporate development at LinkedIn and before that a director of business operations and strategy at Warner Bros. Earlier in her career she worked with Legg Mason Wood Walker as a senior analyst for investment banking. Choi earned an MBA from The Wharton School and an undergraduate degree in economics from The Johns Hopkins University.
58. Baljeet Sangha
Chief Operating Officer, San Francisco Department of Public Health
University of California - Berkeley
Baljeet Sangha began his professional career over 12 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Operating Officer of the San Francisco Health Network, the City of San Francisco’s only fully complete and integrated healthcare delivery system. He also currently serves as the Vaccine Executive Sponsor and as an Incident Commander for the San Francisco Department of Public Health’s covid pandemic response.
Previously, Sangha was VP of operations and support services at Alameda Health System. Earlier in his career, he worked as an executive administrator in the San Francisco Health Network and also as the inaugural deputy COO and chief patient experience officer at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital. Sangha earned a master’s in public health with a focus on health policy and management, and a specialty in multicultural health from the University of California - Berkeley. He also earned an undergraduate degree in history from the University of California - Berkeley. Sangha is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and a Fellow of America’s Essential Hospitals.
59. Scott Goss
Chief Operating Officer, Forefront Dermatology
Northwestern University
Scott Goss is the Chief Operating Officer of Forefront Dermatology. Forefront Dermatology is a network of dermatology practices comprised of community-based, caring physicians and specialists providing best-in-class general, surgical and cosmetic dermatology care along with related laboratory services, with numerous convenient locations throughout the United States. The company is committed to delivering innovative solutions and exceptional care for healthy and beautiful skin. Goss has 29 years of experience. He began his career in 1993.
Before joining Forefront Dermatology, Goss was a VP of marketing and business development at Viewics and before that a chief commercial officer at Cambridge Cognition. Earlier in his career he worked with APM Management Consultants as a junior associate and research analyst. Goss graduated from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management with an MBA, and from the University of Wisconsin - Madison with an undergraduate degree in economics.
60. David Pines
Chief Operating Officer, CanopyLAB
The Johns Hopkins University
David Pines began his professional career 49 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Operating Officer of CanopyLAB. CanopyLAB is a Danish EdTech company founded in Copenhagen in 2015. Their vision to change the way we learn was conceptualized based on CEO Sahra-Josephine Hjorth's Ph.D. research at Aalborg University, focusing on virtual learning environments, social media, and empowerment through learning. CanopyLAB currently services 200+ companies and educational institutions with remote and blended learning solutions in more than 20 countries.
Pines first got his start in 1973 as a teacher at Friends School of Baltimore. From there, he went on to The Breakthrough Foundation, before eventually rising to become the executive director at The Foundation for the Future of Youth, his most recent position prior to joining CanopyLAB. Pines graduated from The Johns Hopkins University with a master’s degree in psychology and education and from Lake Forest College with undergraduate degrees in sociology, anthropology, and education.
61. Raj Singhal
Chief Operating and Financial Officer, IPG Health
University of Michigan
Raj Singhal is the Chief Operating and Financial Officer of IPG Health. He first joined the company in 2021. IPG Health is home to FCB Health and McCann Health agencies - some of the world’s most celebrated and awarded health marketing agency brands. They are a collective of over 45 agencies and 5,000+ people across six continents, all singularly focused on creating game-changing marketing solutions that accelerate progress in health for good and for all.
Previously, Singhal was an acting global CEO at Huge and before that, a VP of investment banking at J.P. Morgan Investment Bank. Earlier in his career he worked with Ford Motor Company as an advanced design and product engineer. Singhal earned an MBA in finance and corporate strategy and an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering, both from the University of Michigan.
62. Matt Tremblay
Chief Operating Officer, Scripps Research
Columbia University in the City of New York
Matt Tremblay began his professional career over 13 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Operating Officer of Scripps Research. Scripps Research is a nonprofit American medical research facility and a leader in the discovery and application of biomedical breakthroughs that improve human health. Headquartered in La Jolla, California, with a sister facility in Jupiter, Florida, the institute has over 200 laboratories employing 2,400 scientists, technicians, and administrative staff, making it the largest private, non-profit biomedical research organization in the United States and among the largest in the world.
Tremblay first got his start in 2009 as a research investigator at GNF before eventually rising to COO at California Institute for Biomedical Research, his most recent position prior to joining Scripps Research. Tremblay graduated from Columbia University in the City of New York with a PhD in chemistry and from the University of Massachusetts at Lowell with an undergraduate degree in chemistry.
63. Tom Block
Chief Operating Officer, Foley Hoag
University of Chicago
Tom Block is the Chief Operating Officer of Foley Hoag. He first joined the company in 2003. Foley Hoag is a dynamic law firm that represents public and private clients in a wide range of disputes and transactions worldwide. They have expertise in industries such as life sciences and healthcare, technology, energy and renewables, investment management, professional services and education. The company also offers their clients market-leading international litigation and arbitration and corporate social responsibility services.
Previously, Block was a president and COO at IF! and before that a COO at Ingalls, Quinn & Johnson. Earlier in his career he worked with Bain & Company as a consultant. Block earned a PhD in sociology from the University of Chicago, a master’s in sociology from SUNY Stony Brook and an undergraduate degree in sociology from the University of Wisconsin - Madison.
64. Lisa McCann
Chief Operating Officer, Korn Ferry
Boston College
Lisa McCann is the Chief Operating Officer and Global Head of Customer Success
and Delivery Services of Korn Ferry. Korn Ferry is a global organizational consulting firm. At Korn Ferry, they design, build, attract and ignite talent. Since their inception, clients have trusted them to help recruit world-class leadership. Today, they are a single source for leadership and talent consulting services to empower businesses and leaders to reach their goals. McCann has over 35 years in the consulting industry. She began her career in 1987
Before joining Korn Ferry, McCann was the North America chief innovation and operating officer at SAP America and before that a consultant at Coda Inc. Earlier in her career she worked with PwC as a staff accountant and tax consultant. McCann graduated from Boston College with an undergraduate degree in management and accounting.
65. David Albers
Chief Operating Officer, US Department of Education
Florida Institute of Technology
David Albers is the Deputy Chief Operating Officer for the US Department of Education. He first joined the organization in 2019. The United States Department of Education’s mission is to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access. They establish policies on federal financial aid for education and distributing as well as monitoring those funds, while focusing national attention on key educational issues
Previously, Albers was a president at Revenue Connections and before that a VP of enterprise sales, business development and global account management at Altisource. Earlier in his career he worked with Barnett Bank as a senior commercial lender and branch manager. Albers earned an MBA from Florida Institute of Technology and an undergraduate degree in finance from Florida State University.
66. Jon Hoch
Chief Operating Officer, NRS
University of Virginia
Jon Hoch began his professional career nearly 23 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Operating Officer of National Retail Systems (NRS). NRS is an asset-based third-party logistics company founded in 1952. To cover supply chain needs from end-to-end, NRS partners with their clients to understand their specific requirements and to provide innovative, customized solutions that meet both current and future needs.
Hoch first got his start in 1999 as a manager of operations at Abercrombie & Fitch. From there, he went on to The Home Depot before eventually rising to become the VP of transportation at TBC Corporation, his most recent position prior to joining NRS. Hoch graduated from the University of Virginia with an undergraduate degree in economics.
67. Cate Gutowski
Chief Operating Officer, Primo Water
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Cate Gutowski is the Chief Operating Officer of Primo Water. She first joined the company in 2021. Primo is a leading pure-play water solutions provider in North America, Europe and Israel focused on healthy and sustainable hydration solutions. Through their leading Water Direct business, they deliver sustainable hydration solutions directly to the customer’s door, whether at home or to commercial businesses. Through their leading Water Exchange and Water Refill businesses, they offer purified pre-filled water in multi-gallon format containers at over 13,000 locations and self-service drinking water refill units at approximately 22,000 locations, respectively, in North America.
Previously, Gutowski was the worldwide head of sales enablement at Amazon Web Services and before that a CEO and founder at See it Be it. Earlier in her career she worked with GE in the technical leadership program. Gutowski earned an MBA in business administration and management from the University of South Florida and an undergraduate degree in speech communications from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
68. Rob Rosiello
Executive Partner & Chief Operating Officer, Flagship Pioneering
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Rob Rosiello is the Executive Partner and Chief Operating Officer of Flagship Pioneering. He first joined the company in 2018. Flagship Pioneering is an American life sciences venture capital company based in Massachusetts that invests in biotechnology, life sciences, health and sustainability companies. The firm both funds and incubates companies. In addition to originating companies, Flagship’s team pursues research breakthroughs and category-defining inventions from their world-class network of collaborators spanning the academic, business, non-profit, science and investment communities.
Previously, Rosiello was an EVP and CFO at Valeant Pharmaceuticals. Earlier in his career he worked with McKinsey & Company as a senior partner. Rosiello earned an MBA from Harvard Business School, a master’s degree in economics, and an undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
69. Jim Augustine
Chief Operating Officer, Zuckerberg Media
Harvard University
Jim Augustine is a media entrepreneur whose career has spanned theater, film, publishing, technology, and business consulting. Most recently, Augustine served as COO of Zuckerberg Media, where he oversaw and built partnerships, new companies, and venture funds in publishing, kids technology and entertainment, streaming media distribution theatrical productions, venture capital, consumer tech, and more. Augustine is Co-Founder of Sue's Tech Kitchen, a Co-Founder of the Zuckerberg Institute, and a Co-Founder of Assemble Stream Inc., which he incubated from its inception to a skyrocketing valuation, packaging agreements with international private equity partners, overseeing contracts with all early partners including regional, Off-Broadway and Broadway theaters, and launching in the process the company's beta platform, and on it, the first-ever commercially successful simulcast run of a Broadway show (Lynn Nottage's Clydes, 2022).
Additionally, at Zuckerberg Media, Augustine helped to package the company's participation as a General Partner in Surround Ventures, an entertainment, media and technology fund operating between Tel Aviv, NYC, LA, and San Francisco. Augustine also Co-Founded and served as managing director of Broadway Beta Ventures, a fund dedicated to live entertainment and the technologies and services that fuel it. He credits his success to early learning differences, including a struggle with dyslexia and a speech impediment. Augustine has supported countless students with diverse learning styles, first as an independent academic consultant, then as a resident tutor, non-resident tutor, guest lecturer and guest artist at Harvard, NYU, the University of Colorado at Boulder, RIT, and other academic institutions. He graduated from Harvard College and NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts.
70. Sonya McDonald
EVP & Chief Operating Officer, Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union
University of Texas at Austin
Sonya McDonald is the EVP and Chief Operating Officer of Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union. With high-value products and services, Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union (RBFCU) is a trusted financial partner for thousands of members in Texas, as well as around the world. Their commitment to personalized service makes RBFCU membership the smarter banking choice. The company is one of the largest credit unions in the United States. McDonald has 28 years in the banking and financial services industry. She began her career in 1994.
Before joining Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union, McDonald was a VP of marketing at SWBC and before that a director of marketing at Day Air Credit Union. Earlier in her career she worked with Centris Federal Credit Union as a creative marketing analyst. McDonald graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with an undergraduate degree in communication, journalism, and related programs.
71. Alain Miguel
Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer, Modalyst
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Alain Miguel began his professional career over 14 years ago. Today, he is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Modalyst. Modalyst is a dropship automation software for ecommerce businesses. It helps businesses find the best items to dropship and reliable suppliers to work with. Modalyst’s automation software enables companies to automatically upload products, sync inventory and route orders. The company also has direct integrations with the most popular ecommerce platforms in the world including Shopify, Wix, and BigCommerce.
Miguel first got his start in 2007 in corporate client banking at J.P. Morgan. Miguel graduated from Massachusetts Institute of Technology - Sloan School of Management with an MBA with concentration in entrepreneurship and innovation, and from Yale University with an undergraduate degree in political science.
72. Nicholas Holmes
Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Rady Children's Hospital - San Diego
Georgetown University
Nicholas Holmes is the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Rady Children's Hospital - San Diego. He first joined the hospital in 2007 as the chief of pediatric urology. Rady Children's Hospital - San Diego is a nonprofit and the largest children's hospital in California that provides services to the San Diego, southern Riverside and Imperial counties. The hospital has 524 beds and provides comprehensive pediatric specialties and subspecialties to patients aged 0–21. In 2020, Rady Children's Hospital was ranked in all 10 specialties by U.S. New and World Report.
Previously, Holmes was a VP and medical director of surgery at Children’s Specialist of San Diego. Earlier in his career he worked with Naval Medical Center - San Diego as a chairman of the department of urology. Holmes earned an MBA from the University of Tennessee - Knoxville, an MD from Georgetown University’s School of Medicine, and an undergraduate degree in biology from Georgetown University.
73. Jennifer Whitten
Chief Operating Officer, Heritage Ministries
University of Massachusetts
Jennifer Whitten's career in healthcare and senior living began more than 17 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Operating Officer for Heritage Ministries, headquartered in Gerry, NY. Heritage Ministries operates a full spectrum of senior services, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, short- and long-term rehabilitation and pharmacy services across 4 states.
Whitten has held many roles throughout her career, including sales, marketing and operations, for both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. Whitten's career has included leadership roles in senior living, home health care, and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). Whitten received her undergraduate degree from the University of Massachusetts and her MBA in healthcare management from Saint Leo University.
74. Lisa Bales
Principal & Chief Operating Officer, Kipp Flores Architects
University of North Dakota
Lisa Bales is the Principal and Chief Operating Officer of Kipp Flores Architects. Kipp Kipp Flores is Austin’s largest residential architecture firm and has been in the industry for over 30 years. From concept to construction, they are dedicated to helping their clients build innovative, cost-effective designs that appeal to the modern buyer. Bales has 13 years of experience. She began her career in 2009.
Before joining Kipp Flores Architects, Bales was an HR business partner at ADP and before that she worked in HR service operations at Insperity. Earlier in her career she worked with HireBetter as a director of client services. Bales graduated from The University of North Dakota with an undergraduate degree in business and public administration.
75. Kevin White
Deputy Director of Athletics & Chief Operating Officer, Northwestern University
University of North Carolina
Kevin White is the Deputy Director of Athletics and Chief Operating Officer at Northwestern University. He first joined Northwestern in 2017, after serving in the same COO capacity at Southern Methodist University. At Northwestern, he is responsible for overseeing the coaches' contract negotiations, finance and business operations (an annual budget of $110M), human resources, information technology, and purchasing. He serves as the sport administrator over the football and men’s basketball programs at Northwestern, where he works with each head coach to oversee each aspect of those programs. He serves as a trusted member to the Vice President of Athletics and Recreation, as he is instrumental with helping direct the day-to-day operation of the department.
Over the course of his career, White has also worked at Southern Methodist University and Georgia State University. He has led and developed strategic plans and crafted finance deals worth over $550 million in sports related capital projects. White graduated from the University of North Carolina with a bachelor's degree in psychology. He also completed his masters in sport administration from Georgia State University and earned an MBA from Kennesaw State University.
76. Neal Muni
Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, ReForm Biologics
Brown University
Neal Muni began his professional career over 18 years ago. Today, he is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of ReForm Biologics. ReForm Biologics provides biologic medicines services. It is a formulation innovator for protein therapeutics. Using their platforms, drug companies can make life-saving medicines easier to administer, less immunogenic, more stable, and more efficient to produce.
Muni first got his start in 2003 as a medical officer in the division of cardiovascular devices for the FDA. From there, he went on to Leerink Partners before eventually rising to become the CEO at Azurity Pharmaceuticals (formerly CutisPharma), his most recent position prior to joining ReForm Biologics. Muni graduated from Tulane University with an MD and MSPH, and from Brown University with an undergraduate degree in biochemistry and business economics.
77. Jared Miller
Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Madison Square Garden Ventures
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Jared Miller is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Madison Square Garden Ventures. He first joined the company in 2018. Madison Square Garden Ventures is focused on sourcing, evaluating and investing in innovative companies across the immersion stack
Previously, Miller was a chief digital officer and SVP of analytics and technology at AMB Sports + Entertainment and before that a VP and general manager of travel and gaming solution management at NCR Corporation. Earlier in his career he worked with Intel Corporation as a process engineer. Miller earned a MS in management science, an MS in civil and environmental engineering, and an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
78. George Grobar
Chief Operating Officer, Penske Media
University of Michigan
George Grobar is the Chief Operating Officer of Penske Media. He first joined the company in 2009. Penske Media is a leading digital media and information services company whose award-winning content attracts a monthly audience of more than 180 million and empowers more than 1 million global CEOs and business thought-leaders in markets that impact the world. Its dynamic events, data services, and rich content entertain and educate today’s fashion, retail, beauty, entertainment and lifestyle sectors. Headquartered in New York and Los Angeles with additional offices in 11 countries worldwide, Penske Media is the way global influencers are informed, connected, and inspired.
Previously, Grobar was an SVP and GM for Disney Mobile and before that a VP of e-commerce at The Walt Disney Company. Earlier in his career he worked with Project Management Associates as a marketing associate. Grobar earned an MBA in finance from the University of Michigan - Stephen M. Ross School of Business and an undergraduate degree in economics and English from Amherst College.
79. Steven Stanko
Chief Operating Officer, Dented Brick Distillery
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Steven Stanko is the Chief Operating Officer of Dented Brick Distillery. Dented Brick Distillery is an award-winning Utah distillery where 100% fermented premium spirits are hand-crafted using the finest raw ingredients and their own mineral rich, artesian well water. The company produces rum, gin, vodka, and whiskey. Stanko has nearly 42 years of experience. He began his career in 1980.
Before joining Dented Brick Distillery, Stanko was a senior program manager at Booz Allen Hamilton. Earlier in his career he served in the US Navy as a commander and supervisor of shipbuilding, conversion, and repair. Stanko graduated from Massachusetts Institute of Technology with a master’s degree in materials engineering, naval architecture and marine engineering, and from United States Naval Academy with an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering.
80. Mélange Matthews
Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President, Public Health Institute
University of California - Berkeley
Méange Matthews is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for the Public Health Institute. She first joined the organization in 2009. The Public Health Institute (PHI) is an independent, nonprofit organization, and one of the largest and most comprehensive public health organizations in the nation dedicated to promoting health, well-being, and quality of life for people throughout California and around the world. Matthews brings a wealth of expertise in management, planning, organizational support, and policy analysis to PHI. She is focused in part on ensuring PHI’s operational excellence and internal efficiency. The organization has more than doubled in size and funding as a result of the pandemic, which has increased the operational lift. Matthews has overseen and implemented every change and had a direct positive impact on patient outcomes.
With over two decades of public health experience, Matthews has served as the director and board chair of a number of local and statewide organizations. Her previous roles include acting director and chief operating officer for the San Francisco Mayor’s Office of Community Development, senior legislative planner for the San Francisco Department of Public Health, board member of the Regional Poison Control Center and member of the California Senate Medicaid Blue Ribbon Committee. As a consultant, Matthews has provided strategic planning and organizational support to foundations and nonprofits nationally. She has also taught critical thinking and contemporary health issues at San Francisco State University. Matthews holds master’s degrees in public health and city regional planning, both from the University of California - Berkeley.
81. Kevin Pierce
Chief Operating Officer, Viking Cloud
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Kevin Pierce began his professional career over 31 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Operating Officer of Viking Cloud. Viking Cloud’s customer-centric technology and services enable cutting edge ways to secure assets and provide assurance testing and assessments. Their platform provides real-time access to business’s cyber risk landscape and enables the Viking Cloud team to partner with their customers to ensure they are able to proactively manage and address the constantly changing cyber threats and risks to their business.
Pierce first got his start in 1990 as a senior account executive at Osteonics, a division of Stryker. From there, he went on to CAS, before eventually rising to EVP at ANXeBusiness, his most recent position prior to joining Viking Cloud. Pierce graduated from Wake Forest University with an MBA with concentration in finance and marketing and from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with an undergraduate degree in chemistry.
82. Edward Huang
Chief Operating Officer, Avenues: The World School
Cornell University
Edward Huang is the Chief Operating Officer of Avenues: The World School, an international system of private schools for toddler to 12th grade. Huang joined Avenues in 2016 as a VP of information systems and technology and CIO where he successfully led the development and implementation of critical digital infrastructure and practices to support Avenues global expansion. In 2021, Huang was promoted to Chief Operating Officer, leading information systems and technology, marketing, admissions and enrollment management, creative, and the communications functions. Huang is a strategic executive leader and an experienced technologist with over 20 years of results building successful teams from startup to growth.
Prior to joining Avenues, Huang worked at global management consulting firm Oliver Wyman, where he led the firm’s Project Management Office and developed their global IT infrastructure, systems and information security. Prior to that, Huang was recruited to Walt Disney World, where he was awarded a service excellence award for leadership. Huang graduated from Cornell University with an undergraduate degree in operations management and marketing and attended the University of Pennsylvania where he earned an M.Sc. engineering degree in the management of technology, co-sponsored by the Wharton School and the School of Engineering.
83. Beth Holt
Chief Operating Officer, CannabisBPO
University of Pittsburgh
Beth Holt is the Chief Operating Officer of CannabisBPO. She first joined the company in 2021. CannabisBPO is a specialty provider of contact center services for the cannabis industry. It was born from two long tenured sister companies, PharmaCentra LLC, and Concentra Solutions INC. Their goal is to help cannabis businesses drive sales and maintain the integrity of their brands.
Previously, Holt was an account executive at TPG TeleManagement and before that an SVP at iQor. Earlier in her career she worked with Eat'n Park Restaurants in HR. Holt earned an MBA and an undergraduate degree in mathematics and economics from the University of Pittsburgh.
84. Randy Hyun
Chief Operating Officer, CarepathRx
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Randy Hyun is the Chief Operating Officer of CarepathRx. CarepathRx is transforming pharmacy care with its mission to deliver the most coordinated, comprehensive and connected end-to-end pharmacy care delivery model for health systems, hospitals and other provider organizations to drive better patient health, improve quality outcomes, and enhance and diversify revenue streams. Hyun has 27 years of experience. He began his career in 1995.
Before joining CarepathRx, Hyun was a president and CEO of Aetna Medicaid at Aetna, a CVS Health Company and before that an SVP and general manager at McKesson Specialty Health. Earlier in his career he worked with Integral as an associate. Hyun graduated from the University of Pennsylvania - The Wharton School with an MBA and from Massachusetts Institute of Technology with an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering.
85. Jenny Santiago
Chief Operating Officer, Crozer Health
Cornell University
Jenny Santiago began her professional career over 13 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Operating Officer of Crozer Health. Crozer Health is the major health care provider in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. It provides a full spectrum of wellness, prevention, acute care, rehabilitation, and restorative care to the community. The system is made up of four hospitals, several outpatient facilities, and a comprehensive physician network of primary-care and specialty practices.
Santiago first got her start in 2009 as a data analyst at Advantage Management Solutions. From there, she went on to Passages Addiction Treatment Center before eventually rising to associate hospital administrator at Southern California Hospitals, her most recent position prior to joining Crozer Health. Santiago graduated from Cornell University with a master's degree in health administration and from Penn State University with an undergraduate degree in journalism.
86. Fatima Toor
Co-Founder, Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Firefly Photonics
Princeton University
Fatima Toor is the Co-Founder, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Firefly Photonics. She first joined the company in 2016. Firefly Photonics is a leader in the research and development of high performance mid- to long-wave infrared LED and laser technology. They have the capability to design, grow, microfabricate, and test prototypes, and work with partners for volume manufacturing.
Previously, Toor was a research analyst at Lux Research and before that a postdoctoral researcher at National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Earlier in her career she worked with Penn State University as a postdoctoral researcher. Toor earned a PhD in electrical engineering, and a master’s degree in electrical engineering, physics, science technology and environmental policy from Princeton University, and an undergraduate degree with double majors in engineering science with specialization in electrical engineering and physics from Smith College.
87. Mario Cernadas
Chief Operating Officer, Ojos Locos Sports Cantina
University of Alabama
Mario Cernadas has been in the restaurant industry for more than 30 years. He started his career washing dishes and cleaning bathrooms while attending the University of Alabama. Over the years, Cernadas worked his way up through the industry and was later entrusted as the COO and CEO of various national brands. Cernadas currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Ojos Locos Sports Cantina. Founded in 2010, Ojos Locos Sports Cantina was built to cater to the Latino community, bringing them a comfortable laid back experience. Ojos Locos Sports Cantina is a chain of Mexican-themed sports bars and restaurants based in Dallas, Texas, with locations throughout the American Southwest.
Cernadas is visionary and an industry expert. He believes that transformation management will always start with the people and “it does not matter how robust or creative a strategy may be, the success of the implementation of that strategy will always depend on the people you can inspire to see your vision and to execute your mission.” Cernadas has previously held executive leadership roles with companies like Roy’s Restaurant, Applebee’s, and Sun Holdings. Cernadas earned his MBA from Quantic School of Business and Technology.
88. Lorena Tule-Romain
Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer, ImmSchools
The University of Texas at Austin
Lorena Tule-Romain is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of ImmSchools. ImmSchools is an immigrant-led nonprofit organization that partners with K-12 schools and educators to support undocumented students and families by leading professional development, immigrant-centered workshops, and organizing for immigrant-friendly policies. Tule-Romain has over 14 years in the education services industry. She began her career in 2007.
Before joining ImmSchools, Tule-Romain was a managing director at Teach For America and before that an assistant English teacher at Colegio Nueva Granada. Earlier in her career she worked with Longhorn LULAC and served as the president and board member. Tule-Romain graduated from Southern Methodist University with a doctorate in education and master of education, and from The University of Texas at Austin with an undergraduate degree in political science and government.
89. Shayna Schulz
Chief Operating Officer, Included Health
Boston University
Shayna Schulz began her professional career 19 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Operating Officer of Included Health. Included Health is a new kind of healthcare company, delivering integrated virtual care and navigation. It's on a mission to raise the standard of healthcare for everyone. It breaks down barriers to provide high-quality care for every person in every community, no matter where they are in their health journey or what type of care they need, from acute to chronic, behavioral to physical. It offers its members care guidance, advocacy, and access to personalized virtual and in-person care for everyday and urgent care, primary care, behavioral health, and specialty care.
Schulz first got her start in 2003 as an executive development program director of Enterprise Distribution Services at MassMutual Financial Group. From there, she went on to Belman Klein Associates before eventually rising to become the SVP of medicare and specialty at Blue Shield of California, her most recent position prior to joining Included Health. Schulz graduated from MIT Sloan School of Management with an MBA and from Boston University with an undergraduate degree in English literature and music.
90. Monica Johnson
Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel, Introsight Advisors
Stanford University
Monica Johnson is the Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel of Introsight Advisors. She first joined the company in 2016. Introsight Advisors is a global strategic marketing firm. They identify and execute innovative strategies to enhance the visibility and network for a select group of high-profile groups including sophisticated global investors, private or family run enterprises, best-in-class brands and companies, early stage investment firms, and non-profit advocacy and research organizations. Using their deep knowledge of the global investor landscape and strong existing relationships, they help organizations grow and differentiate themselves. Their creative spin on facilitating warm introductions, building relationships and hosting events will change the future of businesses.
Previously, Johnson was a consultant at Beachbody and before that a co-founder at Burn This, Inc. (now BodyBoard). Earlier in her career she worked with the US Court of Appeals as a law clerk to the Honorable Michael Chertoff and Samuel Alito, Jr. Johnson earned a JD from Harvard Law School and a master’s degree in history and undergraduate degree in political science from Stanford University.
91. Ben Foster
Chief Operating Officer, Lotic Labs
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Ben Foster is the Chief Operating Officer of Lotic Labs. Lotic Labs has deep experience at the nexus of natural resources, technology, and finance. It specializes in leveraging advanced data science and engineering to manage environmental financial risk. Its team has worked in a variety of resource-dependent commodity industries, as well as finance organizations managing trillions of dollars of assets. Foster has over 2 years in the computer software, and environmental science industry. He began his career in 2019.
Foster graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a PhD and MS in environmental sciences and engineering, and from the University of Virginia with an undergraduate degree in civil engineering.
92. Steve Holliday
Chief Operating Officer, Luna Grill
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Steve Holliday is the Chief Operating Officer of Luna Grill. At Luna Grill, their mission is to make their fans feel good with the food they serve, to fuel their best possible lives. They serve many non-GMO items including rice, lamb, salmon, and grass-fed beef, as well as always using non-GMO oil. Luna Grill supports locally harvested produce, sustainable farming and local businesses whenever possible. Holliday is an experienced executive with two decades of equity, franchise, and corporate headquarter experience.
Holliday has a proven track record developing innovative solutions for sales and profit improvement, operations excellence, and people development in the C-Suite of an emerging brand and on a regional and national scale within a 10-billion-dollar corporation. Before joining Luna Grill, Holliday was an independent consultant. Earlier in his career he worked with Taco Bell as an assistant manager, general manager, field staffing manager, and district manager. Holliday graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with an undergraduate degree in psychology.
93. Donna Jonas
Chief Operating Officer, Museum of the Bible
Georgetown University
Donna Jonas is the Chief Operating Officer of the Museum of the Bible. She first joined the organization in 2017. Museum of the Bible’s 430,000-square-foot building is located just three blocks from the US Capitol in Washington, D.C. It aims to be among the most technologically advanced and engaging museums in the world. Showcasing rare and fascinating artifacts spanning 3,500 years of history, the museum offers visitors an immersive and personalized experience with the Bible, and its ongoing impact on the world around us.
In addition to her current role, Jonas is a founding member of CHIEF, the private network built to drive more women into positions of power and keep them there. She is also a legislative liaison with the US Army Reserve and a participant in the National Security Fellows Program with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. She was active in the US Army for over 12 years as an army aviation officer. Jonas graduated from Georgetown University with a master’s in policy management with concentration in public policy analysis, and from the University of Missouri - Columbia with an undergraduate degree in French language and literature.
94. Neil Duren
Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer, Nuco Citrus
University of Wisconsin - Madison
Neil Duren is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Nuco Citrus. He founded the company in 2017. Nuco Citrus is a waste transformation business with a focus on producing byproducts from sustainable citrus processing in the United States. Founded by Gramercy Hill Partners, the Nuco Citrus leadership team is comprised of project finance executives, world-class food and beverage process engineers, and highly regarded project developers.
Previously, Duren was a VP at Lockton Companies. Earlier in his career he worked with TD International as an analyst. Duren earned an undergraduate degree in international relations and affairs from the University of Wisconsin - Madison.
95. Sebastian Mitchell
Chief Operating Officer, PureStar
Emory University
Sebastian Mitchell is the Chief Operating Officer of PureStar. PureStar is North America’s clean leader of outsourced laundry services and linen management to the hospitality industry. With locations across the United States, Mexico and the Bahamas, they help create safe stays for thousands of client partners ranging from 7,000-key resorts to 200-room boutique hotels, spas, restaurants, fitness centers, and private clubs. Mitchell has 24 years of experience. He began his career in 1998.
Before joining PureStar, Mitchell was a regional VP at Aramark. Earlier in his career he worked with KPMG as a senior consultant of the economic consulting group. Mitchell graduated from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business with an MBA and from Emory University with an undergraduate degree in economics.
96. Giselle Hale
Chief Operating Officer, Political Data
University of Wisconsin - Madison
Giselle Hale is the Chief Operating Officer of Political Data (PDI). She first joined the company in 2020. PDI’s unparalleled data and robust tools help progressives mobilize supporters, volunteers, and voters. From its Campaign Center to its relational organizing and fundraising, they deliver the tools needed to organize, activate, and win.
Previously, Hale was a consultant and advisor for Seed- Series B startups at The GHLD, and before that a director of media partnerships and product marketing at Facebook. Earlier in her career she worked with TDS Metrocom as an account executive. Hale earned an MBA in international business from Thunderbird School of Global Management and an undergraduate degree in international relations and German literature from the University of Wisconsin - Madison.
97. Petra Platzer
Chief Operating Officer & Founding Partner, SixSEED
Virginia Tech
Petra Platzer began her professional career 16 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Operating Officer and Founding Partner of SixSEED. SixSEED is a healthcare consultancy firm that leverages a team of expert consultants, former hospital CEOs and physician leaders, and credentialed coaches. Their collaborative, interdependent and custom-designed services are designed to help their clients increase the capacity of their leaders and teams, so healthcare systems can navigate complexity more effectively.
Platzer first got her start in 2006 as a research associate and manager of integrative genomics analysis at Cleveland Clinic. From there, she went on to Amati Health as director of integrated leadership development, her most recent position prior to founding SixSEED. Platzer graduated from Kent State University with a PhD in molecular biology and genetics, and from Virginia Tech with an undergraduate degree in biology.
98. David Montoya
Chief Operating Officer, WisdomTree
Georgetown University
David Montoya is the Chief Operating Officer of WisdomTree. He first joined the company in 2018. WisdomTree is a New York-based exchange-traded fund (ETF) and exchange-traded product (ETP) sponsor and asset manager. It launched its first ETFs in June 2006 and became one of the major ETF providers in the United States. WisdomTree offers ETPs covering domestic, international and global equities, fixed income, currencies, commodities and alternative strategies. It pioneered the concept of fundamentally weighted ETFs and active ETFs and is currently an industry leader in both categories.
Previously, Montoya was a deputy assistant secretary at the US Department of Veterans Affairs and before that an insurance agent at New York Life Insurance Company. Earlier in his career he worked with the Office of US Senator Jeff Bingaman as a military legislative assistant. Montoya earned an MBA from Georgetown University.
99. Juliette Han
Chief Operating Officer, Cambrian Biopharma
University of California - Los Angeles
Juliette Han is the Chief Operating Officer of Cambrian Biopharma. Cambrian Biopharma is building the medicines that will modernize healthcare in the 21st century with therapeutics to lengthen healthspan and the period of life spent in good health. As a Distributed Development Company, Cambrian is advancing multiple scientific breakthroughs, each targeting a biological driver of aging. Its approach is to develop interventions that treat specific diseases first, then deploy them as preventative medicines to improve the quality of life as individuals age. Han has over 21 years in the biotechnology industry. She began her career in 2001.
Before joining Cambrian Biopharma, Han was a chief of staff to the CEO and CIO at Two Sigma and before that a COO of human capital at Citadel. Earlier in her career she worked with Premiere Oncology as a senior research assistant. Han graduated from Harvard Medical School with a PhD in neuroscience and from the University of California, Los Angeles with an MS in physiological science and an undergraduate degree in neuroscience physiological science.
100. Edward Weisberg
Chief Operating Officer, Zeleus
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Edward Weisberg is the Chief Operating Officer of Zeleus. Zeleus is a professional training and coaching company that provides full-service, one-on-one career development services, including resume writing and editing, cover letter writing, interview preparation, personal branding and career coaching. Their goal is to help their clients find and land jobs that align with their professional development and career goals. They can help identify the right opportunities and prepare the job application materials needed for the best foot forward. Weisberg has 27 years of experience. He began his career in 1995.
Before joining Zeleus, Weisberg was an SVP of worldwide marketing and business development at GXT Green, and before that a managing partner at ECommerceExpertise. Earlier in his career he co-founded BX.com where he served as the president and chief revenue officer.
Weisberg graduated from Massachusetts Institute of Technology with a master’s degree in management with triple concentration in information systems, marketing, organizational development, and from the University of Pennsylvania with an undergraduate degree in social psychology.