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Heritage Group CompaniesFounder
Oct. 2024Michigan, United StatesAs the Founder of Heritage Group Companies, I am spearheading an innovative startup built on a collaborative partnership model, investing in and developing multiple businesses within the trades sector. This initiative is focused on creating sustainable growth and fostering excellence in industries such as electrical contracting, construction, and infrastructure services. Key Responsibilities & Contributions: Strategic Leadership: Driving the company’s vision, mission, and strategic direction to establish a thriving ecosystem of trade-based businesses.
Business Development: Identifying investment opportunities, building relationships with partners, and creating scalable growth strategies.
Team Leadership: Leading a multidisciplinary team to execute business plans and ensure operational excellence across all ventures.
Entrepreneurial Strategy: Designing frameworks for launching, scaling, and managing startups under the Heritage Group Companies umbrella.
Operational Oversight: Overseeing business planning, resource allocation, and risk management to ensure alignment with the company’s objectives.
Marketing & Branding: Crafting and implementing marketing communications strategies to elevate brand presence and attract new business opportunities.
Change Management: Driving organizational agility and adaptability to navigate challenges in the evolving trades industry. About Heritage Group Companies:
Heritage Group Companies is a forward-thinking enterprise investing in the trades industry, focusing on creating high-impact businesses that contribute to community development and economic growth. By leveraging expertise in business ownership and startup development, we aim to redefine standards of excellence in the trades sector. This role allows me to bring together visionary leadership, practical experience, and a commitment to fostering sustainable growth for businesses and communities alike.
GrowBusiness Advisor
Mar. 2023 - May. 2024Grand Rapids Metropolitan AreaAs a Business Advisor at Grow, I collaborated with a diverse range of businesses, providing tailored support to help them thrive in a competitive market. My role centered on empowering entrepreneurs and small business owners to make informed decisions through strategic guidance in marketing, forecasting, and budgeting. Key Responsibilities:
Marketing Strategy Development:
Assisted businesses in creating and executing effective marketing plans, including branding, digital campaigns, and customer engagement strategies to drive growth and visibility.
Financial Forecasting and Budgeting:
Helped clients develop realistic financial projections and budgets to manage cash flow, allocate resources efficiently, and achieve long-term profitability.
Business Planning:
Guided clients in creating comprehensive business plans that aligned with their goals and market opportunities.
Performance Metrics:
Established key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and identify areas for improvement.
Problem Solving:
Provided actionable solutions for challenges related to scaling operations, customer retention, and revenue generation.
Key Achievements:
Supported a large portfolio of businesses in refining their marketing strategies, resulting in increased brand awareness and customer acquisition.
Implemented financial forecasting tools that enabled clients to better predict seasonal trends and improve decision-making.
Helped businesses secure funding by preparing strong financial and business proposals.
Facilitated partnerships and collaborations that contributed to client growth and market expansion. My time at Grow was dedicated to helping small businesses flourish by providing them with the tools, knowledge, and strategies to succeed. I focused on fostering growth through data-driven insights, creative marketing, and robust financial planning, ensuring every client had a strong foundation for sustainable success.
Rende Progress CapitalBusiness Development Director
Feb. 2019 - Mar. 2023Grand Rapids, MichiganAs Business Development Director at Rende Progress Capital, I played a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission of providing financial solutions to Excluded Entrepreneurs. These entrepreneurs often face systemic barriers to accessing traditional loans due to bias and racial inequity. My efforts were focused on empowering underserved communities through tailored financial coaching and innovative lending solutions. Key Responsibilities:
Coaching Entrepreneurs to Access Capital:
Provided one-on-one guidance to entrepreneurs on navigating the lending process, strengthening their business proposals, and meeting lending criteria.
Strategic Lending Programs:
Developed and executed programs to identify and support excluded entrepreneurs, enabling them to access loans and investments for their business growth.
Financial Literacy Training:
Delivered workshops and resources on financial management, credit improvement, and loan application preparation.
Community Engagement:
Built relationships with local organizations and community leaders to identify underserved entrepreneurs and expand the reach of Rende Progress Capital’s services.
Key Achievements:
Facilitated in countless loans and investments to excluded entrepreneurs, significantly impacting their business trajectories.
Helped clients strengthen their business plans and financial statements, leading to a higher loan approval rate.
Expanded Rende Progress Capital’s community network, increasing the organization’s visibility and reach among underserved populations. At Rende Progress Capital, I was driven by the belief that access to capital is a fundamental right that fuels entrepreneurship and community development. My work focused on empowering those who have been excluded from traditional financial systems, helping them realize their potential and contribute to the economic fabric of their communities.
Partners Relief & DevelopmentVP of Finance
Jul. 2018 - Dec. 2018International (multi-locations)Partners Relief & Development is a global NGO headquartered in Chiang Mai, Thailand, dedicated to providing food, shelter, and programs for children affected by war and oppression. As Vice President of Finance, I played a key leadership role in managing financial operations across multiple international offices, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission to bring hope and restoration to vulnerable communities. Key Responsibilities:
Financial Oversight Across Affiliates:
Worked closely with partner offices in multiple countries to implement uniform budgeting practices and ensure financial transparency.
Risk Management:
Conducted comprehensive risk assessments for international operations, including insurance coverage and compliance with local regulations.
General Accounting:
Managed core financial functions, including payroll processing, account reconciliations, and reporting for international offices.
Policy Development:
Developed and implemented financial policies to standardize operations across affiliate nations.
Strategic Leadership:
Contributed to leadership discussions on organizational strategy and financial sustainability, focusing on maximizing impact in war-torn regions.
Liaison with Financial Institutions:
Acted as the primary point of contact for banks and financial organizations, facilitating transactions and financial services globally.
Key Achievements:
Improved payroll and budgeting processes to better allocate resources for critical programs in war-torn areas.
Strengthened collaboration among international offices by creating clear and consistent financial guidelines. My work with Partners Relief & Development exemplified my commitment to using financial expertise to drive impactful humanitarian initiatives. By building strong financial systems and fostering collaboration, I helped the organization deliver critical aid to children and families in some of the world’s most challenging environments.
iNFable, LLCFounder
Jun. 2018Grand Rapids, Michigan, United StatesI founded iNFable, a bold, purpose-driven unisex sock brand, with a mission to combine style, quality, and social responsibility. Over the years, I have designed and sold over 100 unique sock designs, many of which are custom-made to support specific medical and social causes. iNFable has built a reputation for connecting customers with meaningful causes and donating 10% of revenue to charities, promoting intentionality and impact in every purchase. Key Achievements: Retail Expansion: Successfully launched iNFable socks in major retailers, including TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Zulily, Walmart Marketplace, and Meijer Stores, among others, ensuring accessibility and visibility for the brand.
Design Excellence: Created over 100 distinct sock designs, blending bold patterns, vibrant colors, and high-quality materials to cater to diverse customer preferences.
Cause-Driven Initiatives: Partnered with various medical and social causes, allocating 10% of revenue to organizations that make a difference in the community.
Market Impact: Positioned iNFable as a leader in socially responsible fashion, gaining recognition for its innovative designs and commitment to giving back.
Customer Connection: Engaged a broad audience through storytelling and intentional branding, fostering a community of loyal customers who value purpose-driven products.
About the Brand:
/In-F-able/
Derived from the word ineffable, meaning "too great or extreme to be expressed or described in words," iNFable reflects the intrinsic value and uniqueness of every individual. This experience embodies my passion for innovation, purpose-driven entrepreneurship, and creating tangible change through meaningful products.
John F. Hendershot Business CoachLeadership Development Consultant
May. 2018Grand Rapids, Michigan, United StatesAs a Leadership Development Consultant, I have dedicated my career to advising new and emerging business owners on strategies for success, personal growth, and effective leadership. My work focuses on providing tailored executive coaching, delivering impactful leadership presentations, and sharing insights through published articles and books. Key Responsibilities: Advising Entrepreneurs: Guided hundreds of business owners, from startups to established ventures, in refining their strategies, scaling operations, and overcoming challenges.
Executive Coaching: Developed personalized coaching programs to enhance leadership skills, decision-making, and team management.
Thought Leadership: Authored several books and articles on leadership, entrepreneurship, and organizational development, sharing actionable insights and inspiring innovation.
Presentations and Workshops: Delivered engaging leadership presentations and workshops for diverse audiences, focusing on empowering professionals to achieve their goals.
Strategic Development: Provided expertise in crafting business strategies, fostering sustainable growth, and building resilient organizations.
Key Achievements: Successfully coached over 500 business owners, helping them achieve measurable improvements in leadership effectiveness and business performance.
Published widely read articles and books that have influenced both emerging entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals.
Developed a reputation for delivering high-impact presentations that inspire action and drive meaningful change. My mission is to empower entrepreneurs and leaders with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to transform their visions into reality. Through a combination of strategic guidance, actionable insights, and inspirational storytelling, I aim to drive lasting success for the individuals and organizations I serve.
Great Lakes Trenchless AssociationPresident
Feb. 2016 - Mar. 2018Great Lakes RegionAs President of the Great Lakes Trenchless Association, I led an industry-focused organization comprising contractors, suppliers, and stakeholders across the states bordering the Great Lakes and Canada. The association specialized in advancing the underground utilities and telecommunications construction industry through education, safety initiatives, and member recognition programs. Key Responsibilities:
Leadership and Representation:
Represented the association in regional and international forums, advocating for advancements in trenchless technology and construction practices.
Membership Development:
Expanded membership by fostering relationships with contractors, suppliers, and affiliates in the U.S. and Canada.
Award and Recognition Systems:
Established an award system to evaluate and recognize member companies for exemplary safety records and compliance programs.
Partnered with industry experts to create a fair and transparent evaluation process for awards.
Sponsorship and Funding:
Secured sponsorships from industry-leading organizations to fund association activities and expand its reach.
Managed relationships with sponsors, ensuring mutual benefit and alignment with the association's goals.
Key Achievements:
Designed and launched a comprehensive safety and compliance award system to encourage excellence among member companies.
Secured high-profile sponsors to support the association’s educational initiatives, events, and programs.
Elevated the association’s visibility through strategic outreach and partnerships with key industry players. Under my leadership, the Great Lakes Trenchless Association became a trusted resource and advocate for trenchless construction professionals, driving industry innovation and collaboration across the U.S. and Canada.
Navigate Creative WorksPartner
Sep. 2015 - Aug. 2016Holland, MichiganAs a Partner and Advisor at Navigate Creative Works, I contributed to the growth and success of an all-inclusive marketing and advertising agency that served clients across the U.S., with a strong presence in Michigan and the Chicagoland area. The company specialized in delivering comprehensive solutions for branding, marketing, web design, and professional services. Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Advising:
Provided expert guidance on marketing strategies and advertising campaigns tailored to client goals and industries.
Advised on business development initiatives to expand Navigate’s reach and portfolio.
Client Engagement: Key Achievements:
Played a pivotal role in growing the client base across Michigan and the Chicagoland area by leveraging a mix of innovative marketing strategies and exceptional service delivery.
Contributed to the successful launch of branding campaigns that significantly improved client visibility and customer engagement. During my tenure, I worked to ensure that Navigate Creative Works delivered cutting-edge solutions that empowered businesses to achieve their marketing and branding goals, cementing its reputation as a leading agency in the industry.
DIG-IT Hydro ExcavationCEO
Aug. 2015 - Jul. 2016Hastings, MI 49058As the Managing Member of DIG-IT Hydro Excavation, I led operations for this environmental services company specializing in vacuum excavation, also known as "soft digging." The company served clients across the entire state of Michigan, providing safe and efficient solutions for excavation projects. Key Responsibilities:
Operational Leadership:
Directed day-to-day operations, ensuring projects were completed safely, efficiently, and on schedule.
Oversaw the implementation of innovative hydro excavation techniques to meet client needs.
Strategic Development:
Developed business strategies to expand market share and increase client base throughout Michigan.
Identified and pursued new opportunities in the environmental services and construction industries.
Client Relations:
Team Management:
Supervised and trained staff to ensure high-quality service and adherence to safety protocols.
Promoted a culture of excellence, safety, and professionalism within the team.
Regulatory Compliance:
Ensured compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations governing excavation and environmental services.
Maintained certifications and training for staff in accordance with industry standards.
Key Achievements:
Implemented operational efficiencies that reduced costs while maintaining high-quality service delivery. Under my leadership, DIG-IT Hydro Excavation became known for its commitment to safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly excavation practices, earning trust and loyalty across Michigan’s commercial and municipal sectors.
Silver Panther Holdings, LLCManaging Member/ Partner
Apr. 2014 - Oct. 2016Hastings, MI 49058As the Managing Member of Silver Panther Holdings, LLC, I oversaw the strategic management of a diversified portfolio of real estate properties and other business investments. This role required a hands-on approach to asset management, financial oversight, and strategic planning to ensure long-term growth and profitability. Key Responsibilities:
Portfolio Management:
Directed the acquisition, retention, and management of commercial real estate properties.
Oversaw the maintenance and improvement of assets to maximize value and return on investment.
Financial Oversight:
Managed all financial aspects of the holding company, including budgeting, revenue tracking, and expense management.
Ensured profitability through careful financial planning and risk assessment.
Investment Strategy:
Identified and evaluated new business opportunities and investments to diversify the portfolio.
Performed market analysis to guide decisions on property acquisitions and divestitures.
Operational Leadership:
Maintained compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements for the holding company and its assets.
Led negotiations with tenants, vendors, and contractors to ensure favorable terms and efficient operations.
Team Collaboration:
Partnered with key stakeholders to align company strategies with financial and operational goals. My leadership at Silver Panther Holdings, LLC, emphasized sustainable growth and prudent investment strategies, ensuring the company’s assets were well-positioned for future success. This experience deepened my expertise in managing complex financial and operational structures within a holding company framework.
DIG-IT, INC. (utilities, power, and telecom contractor)CEO
Sep. 2012 - May. 2018Hastings, MI 49058DIG-IT, INC. is a prominent construction company specializing in underground utilities, foundation drilling for substations, and infrastructure projects in the natural gas, electric, and telecommunications sectors. As CEO, I provided visionary leadership, driving the company’s growth, operational excellence, and market expansion across the nation. Key Responsibilities:
Executive Leadership:
Directed all facets of the company’s operations, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and long-term vision.
Represented the company at industry conferences, forging relationships with stakeholders and positioning DIG-IT as a leader in utility construction.
Strategic Growth and Business Development:
Oversaw national business development, securing high-value contracts and expanding the company’s footprint into new markets.
Diversified service offerings to include foundation drilling and telecommunications infrastructure, meeting the evolving needs of clients.
Financial Oversight:
Managed the annual budget, ensuring financial stability and optimal resource allocation for large-scale projects.
Monitored financial performance, implementing cost-saving measures and driving profitability.
Organizational Development:
Spearheaded initiatives to strengthen company culture, enhance employee engagement, and reduce turnover.
Mentored senior leaders and managers, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and innovation.
Operational Excellence:
Implemented process improvements to increase operational efficiency and reduce project costs.
Led corrective action planning to address challenges and ensure project success.
Key Achievements:
Market Expansion: Expanded DIG-IT’s services across multiple states, entering new industries and driving substantial revenue growth. Under my leadership, DIG-IT, INC. became a recognized leader in the utilities, power, and telecommunications construction sectors, delivering innovative solutions and fostering long-term client relationships.
DIG-IT, INC.Chief Financial Officer
Feb. 2011 - Sep. 2012Hastings, MIAs CFO of DIG-IT, INC., I played a pivotal role in strengthening the financial health of the company by implementing robust financial controls, optimizing investment strategies, and introducing innovative benefits programs for employees. My leadership ensured sound fiscal management and enhanced employee satisfaction, laying a solid foundation for the company’s growth. Key Responsibilities:
Financial Management:
Oversaw all financial operations, including investment activities, commercial lending, and deposit account management.
Managed commercial notes, loans, and deposit banking accounts to ensure liquidity and financial stability.
Policy Development:
Designed and implemented comprehensive financial policies to streamline processes and mitigate risks.
Developed clear guidelines for investment and lending practices aligned with company goals.
Employee Benefits Programs:
Introduced and managed a Simple IRA program to support employee retirement planning.
Enhanced employee satisfaction and retention through competitive benefits and financial wellness initiatives.
Financial Controls:
Successfully implemented financial control measures, improving budgeting accuracy and reducing waste.
Strengthened the company’s financial position by optimizing investment strategies and managing debt effectively.
Employee Benefits:
Developed and rolled out the company’s first retirement plan, offering employees long-term financial security.
Enhanced employee engagement through meaningful benefits programs tailored to their needs.
Risk Mitigation:
Introduced robust risk assessment practices to safeguard financial operations and maintain compliance.
Team Development:
Coached and supported team leaders, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. During my tenure as CFO, I ensured that DIG-IT, INC. operated with financial discipline and a strong commitment to employee well-being, positioning the company for sustainable growth and long-term success.
United Federal Credit UnionAssistant Branch Manager
Oct. 2009 - Feb. 2011As the Assistant Branch Manager and Office Manager, I was responsible for overseeing branch operations, leading a team of employees, and ensuring excellent service delivery in business and consumer banking. My role involved coaching team members, managing daily operations, and fostering growth in both business and consumer banking products. Key Responsibilities:
Team Leadership and Coaching:
Managed and mentored a team of branch employees, ensuring they achieved personal and professional growth.
Conducted regular performance reviews and provided actionable feedback to enhance employee effectiveness.
Branch Operations Management:
Oversaw daily branch activities, including cash operations, compliance, and adherence to credit union policies.
Business and Consumer Banking:
Supported business banking clients with deposit accounts, loans, and credit card services, tailoring solutions to meet their unique needs.
Assisted consumers with financial products such as personal loans, savings accounts, and credit card applications.
Customer Relationship Management:
Resolved customer concerns promptly, ensuring a high level of satisfaction and loyalty.
Strategic Initiatives:
Implemented strategies to drive branch growth, meeting and exceeding performance targets in deposits, loans, and new account openings.
Developed marketing initiatives to promote credit union products and increase community engagement.
Key Achievements:
Successfully improved team productivity through targeted coaching and training programs.
Enhanced branch efficiency by implementing streamlined processes and operational improvements.
Played a pivotal role in increasing branch revenue by growing the portfolio of business and consumer banking clients. My tenure as Assistant Branch Manager demonstrated my ability to lead teams effectively, manage branch operations, and deliver exceptional banking solutions to both business and individual clients.
Fifth Third BankFinancial Center Manager/ Officer
Jun. 2008 - Apr. 2009During my tenure as Financial Center Manager, I was entrusted with overseeing the process of closing a bank branch, ensuring full compliance with federal regulations, and maintaining seamless operational continuity throughout the transition. My responsibilities encompassed business development, managing business banking loans and deposit accounts, and ensuring strict adherence to regulatory and compliance standards. Key Responsibilities:
Branch Closure Oversight:
Managed the entire branch closure process, adhering to all federal and institutional regulations to ensure a smooth and compliant transition.
Coordinated with internal and external stakeholders to safeguard customer relationships and minimize disruption to services.
Business Development:
Supported business clients with tailored banking solutions, including business loans, deposit accounts, and credit services.
Operational Leadership:
Provided guidance and leadership to branch staff, maintaining morale and productivity during the transition period.
Customer Relationship Management:
Facilitated the migration of accounts and services to other branches or banking options, prioritizing customer satisfaction.
Key Achievements:
Successfully managed the closure of a branch in full compliance with federal and banking regulations, safeguarding customer trust and institutional integrity. This role highlighted my ability to navigate complex operational challenges while maintaining compliance, fostering strong client relationships, and achieving business objectives during a transitional period.
JP Morgan ChaseBranch Manager/ Vice President
May. 2006 - Jun. 2008As Vice President and Branch Manager at the Downtown Grand Rapids Plaza office, I oversaw the operations, business development, and strategic growth of one of JP Morgan Chase Bank's flagship locations. My role included managing business banking loans, deposit accounts, and supervising all branch banking activities, ensuring exceptional customer service and operational excellence. Key Responsibilities:
Branch Operations Leadership:
Directed daily operations of the Downtown Grand Rapids Plaza branch, ensuring compliance with corporate policies and federal regulations.
Monitored and enhanced operational efficiency, implementing best practices to streamline workflows and enhance customer experience.
Business Development:
Expanded the bank’s client base by developing and executing targeted strategies for business banking products and services.
Cultivated relationships with local businesses, offering tailored financial solutions to meet their unique needs, including loans, deposit accounts, and credit services.
Team Leadership:
Led a team of banking professionals, providing training, coaching, and mentorship to enhance performance and foster professional growth.
Conducted regular performance reviews and established clear goals to drive accountability and productivity.
Client Relationship Management:
Maintained strong relationships with high-value clients, addressing complex financial needs with personalized solutions.
Sales and Revenue Growth:
Increased branch profitability by exceeding sales targets for loans, deposits, and other banking products.
Key Achievements:
Successfully managed and grew the branch's business banking portfolio, securing new clients and deepening relationships with existing customers. This role demonstrated my ability to manage complex operations while driving growth and maintaining exceptional customer service standards in a dynamic financial environment.
Fifth Third BankCustomer Service Manager & various other positions
Nov. 2002 - May. 2006Over my tenure at Fifth Third Bank, I held multiple roles that progressively expanded my responsibilities and honed my expertise in banking operations, customer service, and team leadership. From retail associate in management training to personal banker and eventually customer service manager, I developed a comprehensive understanding of branch operations and customer engagement. Key Roles & Responsibilities:
Customer Service Manager / Office Manager:
Managed the day-to-day operations of a busy bank branch, ensuring smooth workflows and regulatory compliance.
Supervised and coached a team of banking associates, providing guidance to improve performance and customer interactions.
Oversaw cash operations, scheduling, and branch audits to maintain operational efficiency and accuracy.
Personal Banker:
Built and nurtured customer relationships by identifying financial needs and recommending appropriate banking products.
Assisted clients with opening accounts, securing loans, and resolving complex banking inquiries.
Exceeded sales goals for banking products, contributing to the branch’s overall profitability.
Retail Associate (Management Training Program):
Completed an intensive management training program to develop leadership and operational skills in retail banking.
Rotated through various departments to gain expertise in branch operations, customer service, and team management.
Key Achievements:
Successfully led the branch to achieve high customer satisfaction scores through exceptional service delivery and operational excellence.
Promoted from entry-level to leadership roles in recognition of performance, adaptability, and commitment to professional growth. My experience at Fifth Third Bank provided a strong foundation in the fundamentals of banking, customer service, and team leadership, which I continued to build upon throughout my career.
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