2025 Wisconsin 275

Welcome to

WELCOME TO THE THIRD EDITION OF BIZTIMES MEDIA’S WISCONSIN 275, a publication recognizing the most influential business leaders in the state.

How do we identify the individuals profiled on the following pages? It takes a lot of research and debate. We aim to include people shaping the direction of Wisconsin’s economy, but we often need to make comparisons of apples and oranges. How do you compare the influence of a real estate developer, nonprofit leader, manufacturing executive or entrepreneur, especially across cities and regions?

No single objective measure can truly compare business leaders for this list and we inherently apply our own subjective judgment in making final decisions.

Advertising plays no role in the selection of the Wisconsin 275; individuals profiled do not pay to be included in the publication.

You’ll likely know and recognize many of the individuals profiled and the organizations they represent, and you may learn about some leaders you haven’t met yet.

We know there are many leaders who were not included in this edition and perhaps some selections you disagree with. In fact, after we published the 2024 edition of Wisconsin 275, we heard directly from readers who had their own suggestions for this year’s list. Their feedback helped us consider dozens of additional individuals, many of whom made the list this year.

One of the biggest challenges in this process is determining who to remove in order to add someone new.

A major change from previous editions is how we handle our Living Legends category. The contributions of this group to the state’s business community could put these individuals on the list in any given year and many continue

to wield influence in various ways. In the past, this category was included as part of the 275 recognized individuals. Starting in this edition, we are no longer counting them toward the total. Each Living Legend is still profiled and in future years will continue to be recognized on our Living Legends list, which this year highlights our past Living Legend honorees.

After considering more than 500 people for this year’s list, we asked all of those selected for Wisconsin 275 to respond to a series of questions. Some are fun and ask about dream cars and favorite dishes to cook, while others focus more on leadership, policy and business strategy.

The responses to those questions form the basis of the profiles on the following pages that go far beyond the biographical details you might find on a LinkedIn profile or company website. Not all of the leaders responded to our questions.

Ultimately, we want to help you get to know the top business leaders in the state. Greater familiarity with each other – especially among different industries and regions – builds trust and a greater willingness to collaborate with one another to ultimately grow the statewide economy.

If you have any comments, recommendations or suggestions for who to feature in our 2026 edition of Wisconsin 275, you can reach me at dan.meyer@biztimes.com.

Dan Meyer, founder and publisher BizTimes Media

PEOPLE

Abston, Ian 24

Adams, Todd 69

Ah Yun, Kimo 82

Ahern, Tripp 100

Albrecht, Tim 69

Aldana, Michael 19

Allman, Jan 69

Anderson, David 8

Anderson, Kevin 8

Anderson, Sue 44

Andrabi, Dr. Imran 44

Anton, Joanne 84

Ariens, Dan 70

Bader, Daniel 84

Bakke, James 70

Bakken, Mark 34

Barnhouse, Rich 82

Barrett, Rick 105

Bartolotta, Paul 53

Barton, Lisa 38

Bauer, Kurt 94

Bauman, Chad 50

Baumgartner, Eric 82

Bechthold, Kurt 100

Bergstrom, John 112

Black, Shari 50

Blain Gilbertson, Jane 112

Block, Bruce 106

Bockhorst, Ken 70

Boldt, Tom 112

Booth, Steve 8

Brennan, Joel 85

Brinker, Neil 71

Brooks, Marty 50

Buelow, John 71

Burke, John 71

Cahalane, John 66

Carey, Deb 66

Carter, Laurie 82

Censky, Ellen 85

Chadha, Sharad 66

Chang, Tina 33

Checota, Joe & Ellen 112

Cohen, Maryjo 72

Conroy, Kevin 32

Cruz, Anthony 83

Cullen, George & Cullen

Schultz, Jeannie 100

Culver, Craig 113

Dahlhauser, Christine 18

Daniels, Mike 8

DeLong, Christopher 40

TABLE OF CONTENTS | PEOPLE

Denson, Edwin 10

Dickman, Craig 32

Dicus-Johnson, Coreen 58

Dirks, Jennifer 86

DiStefano, P.J. 18

Dranzik, Brian 40

Drees, Chris 72

Dufek, Kristin 106

Dupies, Alicia 101

Eberle, Paul 86

Eckstrom, Christopher 35

English, Pat 10

Fabiano, Serafino 72

Fallucca, Giacomo 66

Farrell, Trevor 66

Faulkner, Judy 113

Feigin, Peter 54

Festerling, Ryan 22

Finley-Hazle, Gabrielle 44

Frankiewicz, Becky 22

Frautschi, Jerome & Rowland

Frautschi, Pleasant 113

Fronk, Susan 24

Fussner, Julie 53

Gay, David 18

Gebhardt III, Otto 106

Gentine, Jeff 67

Gentine, Louie 67

Gerend, Tim 58

Gibson, Thomas 83

Gnadinger, Cindy 83

Gokhman, Tim 106

Goller, Chris 10

Gore, Cecelia 86

Gorens-Levey, Linda 107

Gosman, Michael 86

Graber, Richard 87

Gresens, Kurt 18

Gries, Rebecca 95

Grob, Most Rev. Jeffrey 87

Grossman, Brian 11

Gruber, David 114

Guthrie, Dana 35

Guti É rrez, Laura 88

Habeck, Patti 95

Haddad, Mike 67

Hallberg, Jackie 88

Hammes, Jon 114

Hammes, Patrick 107

Harmening, Andy 11

Harris, Wendy 33

Hasting, Mark 97

Hendricks, Diane 114

Heywood, Matt 45

*To accommodate page design, profiles may not be in exact alphabetical order within each page

Hinton, Dustin 58

Hoerneman, Dr. Brian 45

Hoeschen, Vesla 72

Honkamp, Kevin 73

Horne, Jonathon 35

Huff, Gregory 67

Hunzinger, John 101

Imperato, Anthony 73

Irgens, Mark 107

Iverson, Erik 32

Jackson, Daniel 45

Jacques, Rob 58

Jagdfeld, Aaron 73

Jeffers, Josh 107

Jendusa, Jerry 24

Johnson, Fisk 73

Johnson, Ken 35

Johnson, Nadiyah 32

Johnson, Nina 12

Johnson, Tracy 108

Johnson-Leipold, Helen 73

Juedes, Chip 24

Kaplan, Dr. Alan 46

Karmazin, Craig 50

Keane, Tim 115

Keiser Jr., Michael 54

Keller, Rustin 25

Kelsey, Peggy 38

Kelsey, Todd 74

Kent, Jennie 97

Kessenich, Eric 40

Kievet, Dave 102

Kirgues, Joe 33

Klappa, Gale 115

Knapek, Mike 74

Kohl, Hank 74

Kohler, David 74

Kooyenga, Dale 95

Kress, William 75

Kriete, David 41

Krutz, David 19

Kundert, Paul 12

Lauber, Scott 38

Lindley, Steve 102

Lindner, Amy 88

Linton, Bill 116

Livesey, John K. 108

Lord, Mara 46

Lovern, Susan 20

Lubar, David 14

Lurie, Scott 108

Mack, Jay 14

Madlom, James &

Richards,Lori 21

Magulski, Jay 116

Mambu Rasch, Chris 102

Mandel, Barry 116

Manista, Ray 59

Manley, Paul 75

Marcus, Greg 51

Mardak, Keith & Vandenberg, Mary 116

Mattke, Tim 26

McPartland, Pete 59

Mellowes, John W. 76

Menard Jr., John 117

Merrifield, Layla 83

Michels, Pat 102

Mills, S.R. 108

Miskel, Chris 46

Mitich, Rebecca 20

Mnookin, Jennifer 83

Moe, Renee 89

Mogensen, Teresa 39

Molepske, Mike 14

Moll, Shane 76

Mooney, Mike 117

Moret, Blake 76

Moroney, Matt 109

Murphy, Scott 59

Neis, John 35

Nelson, Todd 55

Nettles, Cory 14

Nettles, Michelle 22

Newell, Kevin 109

Nobile, Paul 60

Nunemaker, Andy 33

Ogilvie, Alan 60

Olson, Brad 94

Orr, Albert 20

Ortiz, Dominic 51

Ø verland, Christian 55

Pancheri, Sarah 52

Peri, Gil 46

Perkins, Wendy 60

Pfeifer, John 76

Piefer, Greg 34

Pinchuk, Nicholas 77

Pinkham, Louis 77

Plant, Joel 52

Poehling Seymour, Katie 26

Policy, Ed 54

Popp, Jim 14

Prising, Jonas 22

Pugliese, Stephanie 97

Quadracci, Joel 77

Ramirez, Austin 77

Ramirez, Gus 118

Rathgaber, Dr. Scott 47

Raymond Sr., Dr. John 47

Reddy, Jag 78

Reinbold, Deb 96

Riesch, Ken 60

Riley, Dave 103

Rinka, Matt 109

Ritchie, Kip 26

Rock, Joe 19

Rosenzweig, Miryam 90

Rothman, Jay 84

Rourke, Mark 41

Rudnicki, Mark 103

Ryf, Nicole 96

Sajet, Kim 56

Sartori, Bert 68

Sauers, Tim 52

Schaefer, John 98

Scholz, Frank 78

Schuler, Michelle 34

Scobey-Polacheck, Annemarie 92

Senty, Christine 61

Shafer, Steve 78

Shivaram, Sachin 78

Smith, Justin 104

Snell, Jeff 92

Snyder, Jud 15

Spano, Dave 15

Specht, Christine 54

Sponem, Kim 16

Stanek, Mary Ellen 16

Starrs, Arthur 79

Stayer, Shelly 68

Steinhafel, Andrew 98

Sternlieb, Paul 79

Stewart, Timothy 20

Stone, Peter 118

Strand, Summer 40

Sullivan, Tim 84

Thayer, Tom 104

Thome, Carrie 36

Tierney, Catherine 16

Trick, Jenny 96

Turner, Christina 92

Uihlein, Dick 27

Uihlein, Liz 27

Van Laanen, Maria 52

Veum, Mike 28

Victorson, Mike 61

Villa, Jim 109

Vincent, Chad 94

Voss, Daniel 104

Voss, Kurt 79

Wahl, Nic 20

Wahlin, Bob 79

Wallen, Tim 110

Waller, Debra 80

Weber, Abe 41

Weidemanis, Joakim 80

Wesley, Greg 92

Westrate, Bill 62

Weyers, Jeff 110

Wicinsky, Garth 62

Wiedemeier, Craig 28

Wigchers, Bill 110

Williams, Terrance 63

Williams-Smith, Peggy 56

Winter, Melissa 63

Witt, Gary 53

Woelbing, Paul 80

Wright Cottrell, DeVona 30

Wronski, Andrew 21

Yancy, Telisa 63

Yanda, Joe 68

Yauck, Scott 110

Yehle, Jim 105

Zakreski, Todd 80

Zeratsky, John 36

Ziegler, Andy 55

Zietlow, Don 118

Mayer, Shelly 94

McLean, Andrew 97

Schlesinger, Rick 55

Schmidt, Eric 104

Zietlow, Scott 98

Zizzo, Anne 22

WISCONSIN 275 2025

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HIGHLIGHT YOUR BEST AND BRIGHTEST

At companies across southeast Wisconsin, notable executives are running businesses, navigating company restructurings, arguing high-stakes legal cases and finding efficiencies in manufacturing processes. These notable individuals also mentor, teach and volunteer in their communities. The leaders profiled are nominated by their peers at work and in the community.

Notable CFOs

Notable Economic Development Executives

Notable Women in Banking

Notable Leaders in Law

Notable Leaders in Construction, Design & Engineering

Notable LGBTQ+ Executives

Notable Leaders in Wealth Management

Notable Executive Assistants

Notable Leaders in Hospitality

Notable Chief Operating Officers

Notable Veteran Executives

Notable Heroes in Health Care

2026 Notable nominations open now.

To learn more and nominate, visit biztimes.com/notable

BizTimes’ roundup of the leaders making a difference throughout southeast Wisconsin.

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BANKING & FINANCE

HEAD, U.S. COMMERCIAL BANKING, WISCONSIN

REGION

BMO | MILWAUKEE

WISCONSIN DELLS-NATIVE David Anderson is group head of BMO Commercial Bank for Wisconsin and its lead executive in Milwaukee. With over 35 years in banking, he has held leadership roles at Marshall & Ilsley Bank and BMO, guiding commercial banking teams and strategic initiatives. Anderson chairs BMO’s Wisconsin Leadership Council and the Greater Milwaukee Committee. He serves on several other nonprofit and industry boards, including Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce and its foundation and the advisory board for the commercial banking program at Marquette University.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Whitewater; master’s, UW-Madison

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Patience! Learning comes from experiences with clients, our internal teams all intersecting with education. On the learning front, so much of it comes from in-person conversation. For those that haven’t embraced ‘return-to-work,’ you’re missing out on learning from each other. That’s the stuff people don’t learn from textbooks!”

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Completing the acquisition of Bank of the West.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Working out at 4 a.m. It clears the mind, recharges the body and allows you to fully take on the day!”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “I’ve had several over the course of my career, but I’d say my dad was instrumental in forming the leader I am today. He told me a long time ago: ‘A man’s reach should exceed his grasp or what’s a heaven for?’ Always push yourself beyond boundaries.”

Steve Booth CHAIRMAN AND CEO BAIRD | MILWAUKEE

STEVE BOOTH is chairman and chief executive officer of Baird Financial Group and its affiliates, an international financial services firm with roughly 5,300 employees and more than $3.5 billion in annual revenue. Born in Milwaukee and raised in Chicago, Booth is also chairman of the American Securities Association’s board of directors and serves on numerous local nonprofit and industry boards, including The Water Council, United Performing Arts Fund, Carmen Schools of Science and Technology and others. The Harvard Business School Club of Wisconsin named Booth Wisconsin Business Leader of the Year in 2022.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Southern Methodist University; MBA, Northwestern University

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “Paul Purcell, my predecessor as CEO of Baird, was my mentor for over 30 years. He was a unique blend of brilliance, warmth, intuition and passion, and consequently had a huge impact on me and my career.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Lower the state personal income tax rate. It would help attract and retain higher-earning and, hence, higher-spending individuals to our state. In my opinion, there would be positive ‘flywheel effects’ on spending, investment, growth, quality health care, arts and entertainment, job creation and philanthropy.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Golf. I truly love the game, and I greatly enjoy traveling and playing on a seemingly unlimited number of beautiful and unique golf courses with friends and family (including my wife, Melanie, who is really starting to enjoy the game!).”

DREAM CAR: “I’ve always been a big James Bond fan, so clearly an Aston Martin!”

Kevin Anderson

PRESIDENT AND EVP, BUSINESS BANKING GROUP

OLD NATIONAL BANK | MILWAUKEE

KEVIN ANDERSON is executive vice president and regional president of Old National Bank’s Milwaukee market and president of its business banking division, overseeing more than 200 bankers. He joined Old National in 2013, working in the Louisville market as senior vice president in the corporate banking group, and moved to Milwaukee in 2016. He previously held leadership roles at Fifth Third Bank and PNC Bank. Anderson serves on several boards, including the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, and he is board chair for the Milwaukee Development Corp.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Kentucky

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “The most critical qualities of a successful leader in business today are flexibility, adaptability, and change management. All of these qualities speak to the need to navigate disruption or the ability to take advantage of market or industry shifts. Business leaders more than ever must stay aware of rapid changes brought on by technology and labor force changing norms.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “This is easy: Door County. It is one of the most beautiful and relaxing areas I have ever visited. The kindness and hospitality is pure Wisconsin.”

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Old National has recently completed its partnership merger with Bremer Bank of Minnesota. This significant partnership will expand the bank’s footprint and services across the upper Midwest and give Old National No. 3 market share in the very important Twin Cities MSA.”

FAVORITE PODCAST: “‘The Maxwell Leadership Executive Podcast.’ Outstanding insights.”

Mike Daniels

CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT AND CEO NICOLET NATIONAL BANK | GREEN BAY

IN 2000, Green Bay-native Mike Daniels and business partner Bob Atwell founded Nicolet Bankshares Inc. with one of the largest capital raises of a new bank in Wisconsin history. Daniels has since led every functional area of Nicolet, becoming president and chief executive officer of Nicolet Bank in 2016 and president and CEO of Nicolet Bankshares in 2021. He was also named chairman in 2024. Nicolet has grown both organically and through mergers and acquisitions, with Daniels having led the integration of 10 acquisitions in eight years. Today, Nicolet reports $8.5 billion in assets and has nearly 950 employees and 57 banking locations, making it the second-largest bank headquartered in Wisconsin. Daniels was the founding president of the Nicolet National Foundation and currently serves on the board of directors of the Green Bay Packers and the board of trustees at St. Norbert College. Informally, he serves as a mentor to young professionals and entrepreneurs in northeastern Wisconsin.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, St. Norbert College

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “Consistent, ongoing messaging at all levels of the organization. That the culture is seen, not just heard.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Kids don’t wake up in the morning and say, ‘I think I’d like to be a community banker.’”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “Ed Policy (president and CEO of the Green Bay Packers), because running an NFL team sounds cool.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Too many focus on not making mistakes. If you make a mistake while trying to do the right thing, then you learn and it makes you better.”

David Anderson

Edwin Denson

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER STATE OF WISCONSIN INVESTMENT BOARD | MADISON

Pat English CHAIRMAN

FIDUCIARY MANAGEMENT INC. | MILWAUKEE

PATRICK ENGLISH is chairman of Fiduciary Management Inc., an independent investment advisor with approximately $14 billion in assets under management. He analyzes stocks, markets and macro conditions, working with the analysts and senior leadership team. English was chief investment officer from 1989 to 2022, president from 2001 to 2010 and chief executive officer from 2010 to 2022. English is a member of the board of directors of Fiduciary Management and the FMI Funds. He is also a member of the Milwaukee Analyst Society and is a chartered financial analyst. He has served as chairman of the Bradley Foundation since 2023.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Stanford University

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “New leadership is now running the investment operation. I have retired from day-to-day responsibilities, though I remain chairman. I will be spending much more time doing basic research. I will still be available to consult with the investment team.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “M&A. Everyone thinks they are good at it. Few are.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I would change jobs with my wife, who is an ER physician. Of course, I could only do it alongside another supervising doctor (and ChatGPT), but it would be exciting to do something more tangible than growing portfolios. I pray that I wouldn’t kill anyone over the month!”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “The fastest growing states have either a zero percent or low-flat income tax rate. It is a nonpartisan issue and we need to move quickly.”

EDWIN DENSON leads the State of Wisconsin Investment Board, the independent agency responsible for managing the assets of the Wisconsin Retirement System. With $140 billion in assets, the WRS ranks among the largest public pension funds in the U.S. A native of Chicago, Denson was previously a managing director at Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, portfolio manager at William Blair & Company, managing member at Singer Partners LLC and managing director at UBS Global Asset Management. Earlier, he was an economist at Lehman Brothers, Primark Decision Economics and Putnam Investments.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Cornell University; doctorate, Northwestern University COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “The Core Fund – the larger of the two Wisconsin Retirement System trust funds, with more than $128 billion in assets – closed the year with a solid 8.5% one-year net return and a 7.2% five-year net return. In an especially noteworthy achievement, 15 of our 17 active investment strategies outperformed their benchmarks, driving a 1.1% one-year excess return, the highest since 2009.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “I maintain a few freshwater aquariums, a sunroom full of indoor plants and kick around my yard in Madison. I also enjoy taking a break from all the numbers by listening to music. I enjoy rock, ‘90s alternative, jazz, and classical/opera.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My manager at Putnam Investments brought a wealth of experience in terms of dealing with change. He taught me that you cannot worry about the things that are out of your control and all you can do is continue to do the best job that you can.”

MOST REWATCHED MOVIE: “If I am ever aimlessly channel surfing and hit ‘The Matrix,’ I watch it from that point through the end.”

Chris Goller

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, CO-HEAD CORPORATE BANKING

PNC FINANCIAL SERVICES GROUP INC. | MILWAUKEE

CHRIS GOLLER is executive vice president and co-head of middle market and large corporate banking at PNC Bank, leading senior banking teams across 11 states and key industry verticals, including Native American gaming and heavy equipment. With over 30 years of financial services experience, he previously served as PNC’s regional president for Wisconsin and held senior leadership roles at U.S. Bank. A Milwaukee native, Goller serves on the boards of the United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County and the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and MBA, Marquette University

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “I tell them our company is like a good Wisconsin cheese: it gets better with time, it is made with care, and if you let it sit unattended too long, things get weird. By the way, my grandfather was a cheesemaker in Monroe, Wisconsin.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My dad. I watched him navigate and work a room for many years. He taught me that in business, you can be tough without being unkind. That advice has shaped every negotiation I have ever had.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I would be a Wisconsin tour guide, taking visitors to the hidden gems, from quirky roadside attractions to the best supper clubs. I would love to spend my days talking about all the fascinating, funny and beautiful things that make our state so unique.”

DREAM CAR: “Mercedes AMG S 63 Coupe. Insane performance, refined design, speed – 0 to 60 in 3.4 seconds, great sound system and safe. Thrilling and secure!”

Brian Grossman

MANAGING DIRECTOR – REGION MANAGER, WISCONSIN

COMMERCIAL BANKING

JPMORGAN CHASE | MILWAUKEE

MADISON-NATIVE Brian Grossman is region manager for commercial banking at JPMorgan Chase and chair of the Wisconsin market leadership team. Since joining the firm in 1995, he has served in multiple leadership roles, including as relationship executive for large public and privately held businesses in Wisconsin and Minnesota. He serves on the boards of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and the First Tee of Southeastern Wisconsin.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; MBA, Marquette University

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Integrity and accountability are essential – people want leaders who do the right thing and own their decisions. Equally important are decisiveness, adaptability and resilience – qualities that allow leaders to guide their teams with confidence through change and uncertainty.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My greatest mentor is Tony Maggiore, my current manager. We started working together in 2003 at Bank One, before it merged with JPMorgan Chase. A motto, ‘anticipate and initiate,’ has stuck with me ever since and still guides how I lead today.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “Pat Murphy, manager of the Brewers, preferably for the month of October. I grew up a Brewers fan in Madison, traveling to Milwaukee for games with my dad, and it would be a thrill to manage the team to a World Series win. Leading a ball club under pressure has some parallels to business; it comes down to preparation, teamwork and execution.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “I’d invest more in education. I was the first in my family to go to college, and without that opportunity I wouldn’t be where I am today. Too many young people still struggle, and improving high school graduation rates along with a strong university system would change lives, keep talent here and drive Wisconsin’s future.”

Andy Harmening

PRESIDENT AND CEO

ASSOCIATED BANK | GREEN BAY

ANDREW HARMENING is president and chief executive officer of Associated Bank, the largest bank holding company based in Wisconsin. With more than 25 years of experience in consumer, small business and commercial banking, he has held leadership roles at Huntington Bank, Bank of the West and U.S. Bank. Harmening serves on the boards of Associated Bank, Northwestern Mutual and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, DePauw University; MBA, University of Cincinnati

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “Don’t listen to people that tell you what you can’t do. Instead, take that feedback as a personal challenge.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “One of my mentors has been my mom. She has taught me so many lessons that I will just start by listing some of them: Be a problem solver, not an excuse maker. Listen to people and develop people. Treat people with respect, regardless of title. Doing the right thing is the right thing (integrity matters).”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “I love to hike. There’s something about pushing yourself up a mountain – the grind of the climb, the satisfaction of reaching the top and then being rewarded with incredible views. Somehow that’s both grounding and liberating. I recently completed a 14-mile hike, and it reminded me how much I enjoy the mix of physical challenge, mental reset and the sense of accomplishment that comes with it.”

DREAM CAR: “As a banker, my dream car is one that’s paid off.”

Thank you for leading the way,

Nina Johnson WISCONSIN BRANCH BANKING MARKET LEADER U.S. BANK | MILWAUKEE

A BANKING EXECUTIVE with more than 40 years of industry experience, Nina Johnson serves as U.S. Bank’s branch banking market leader for Wisconsin, where she manages over 500 people. She has served on roughly 45 nonprofit boards throughout her career and has contributed to national initiatives advancing low- and moderate-income communities. She is currently active in multiple professional organizations and serves in several executive advisory roles at U.S. Bank.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and MBA, University of Phoenix; CBA Executive Banking School graduate, Furman University

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Although having an executive mentor or sponsor is a key opportunity for career growth, those working in a science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM)-based industry are always in need of seasoned leaders that are willing to serve emerging leaders as well as seasoned leaders interested in a new career path.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Assuming that a team that works from sunrise to sunset will result in a greater level of productivity is a mistake that many have tried to use in leading others. However, the outcomes can range from burnout in your team, low morale and high attrition.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “Oprah Winfrey because of her entrepreneurial accomplishments, philanthropic work, ability to meet people where they are and her extensive network of leaders who are also successfully making an impact in their respective careers and communities.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “I really enjoy Lake Drive, and whenever I have guests visiting from another state, I make sure to drive near the lake for the breathtaking views. It is a wonderful experience on a summer day.”

Paul Kundert

PRESIDENT AND CEO

UW CREDIT UNION | MADISON

PAUL KUNDERT is president and CEO of UW Credit Union, a state-chartered, federally insured financial cooperative with over 900 employees, 375,000 members and 35 branch locations. With assets of $6 billion, UW Credit Union is ranked among Wisconsin’s top 10 depository financial institutions. A native of Rochester, Minnesota, Kundert is also a longtime supporter of United Way of Dane County and serves on its board of directors. From 2021 to 2023, Kundert was a member of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago Community Depository Institutions Advisory Council.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Winona State University; MBA, University of St. Thomas QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Today’s business leaders must be technology- and data-aware, curious, and accepting of generational attitudes about how and where work gets done.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “Early in my career, I was struggling to find a job I loved. An older friend said, ‘You’re not supposed to enjoy your job, that’s why it’s called work.’ I’m glad I ignored that advice. It is both possible and important to find a career you love.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Staying close to AI advancement is the latest evolution of my job role. AI models that can help boost customer service and employee productivity represent an exciting period of growth.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “When I’m stuck creatively, I get outside and do something physical. Moving in nature always seems to help spur fresh thinking.”

CONGRATULATIONS, ANDY HARMENING.

At Associated Bank, we’re all about community. That’s why we’re proud to congratulate President & CEO Andrew Harmening for being named to the Wisconsin 275: Wisconsin’s Most Influential Business Leaders. Your work keeps our city growing.

David Lubar

PRESIDENT AND CEO

LUBAR & CO. | MILWAUKEE

DAVID LUBAR is president and chief executive officer of Lubar & Co., a family office for the Lubar family and a private investment firm founded in 1977 that invests in middle-market operating companies with a focus on long-term growth. He joined the company in 1983 and has served as lead investor to more than 20 companies in a range of industries and various stages of development. Prior to joining Lubar & Co., he worked for Wells Fargo Bank. Lubar serves as chairman of Ixonia Bank and on the boards of the Milwaukee Brewers and several other companies. He’s former chairman of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation, Froedtert Health and United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Bowdoin College; MBA, University of Minnesota

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “A serious mistake is not regularly meeting with and actively listening and responding to customer and employee concerns.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My father (Lubar & Co. founder Sheldon Lubar) has been my biggest mentor. I have learned much from working with him for 40 years, beginning with the utmost importance of ethics and integrity.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Implement a nonpartisan or bipartisan system for drawing fair maps for state and federal election districts.”

MOST REWATCHED MOVIE: “‘Casablanca’ with Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman.”

Mike Molepske CEO AND CHAIRMAN BANK FIRST |

MANITOWOC

MIKE MOLEPSKE is chief executive officer and chairman of the board of Bank First and its holding company, Bank First Corp. In July, Bank First, which reports total assets of approximately $4.4 billion, announced plans to merge with Beloit-based First National Bank and Trust at the beginning of 2026. Molepske also serves on the boards of the RCS Foundation and the Rahr-West Art Museum Charitable Foundation and holds leadership roles within the American Barefoot Club and World Barefoot Council barefoot water skiing organizations.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; MBA, UW-Milwaukee

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Our most significant success this year has been negotiating the merger with First National Bank and Trust, the largest acquisition in our history. This strategic move expands our footprint with 27 new offices across Wisconsin and marks our first entry into Illinois, opening doors to strong markets including Janesville, Beloit and Rockton (Illinois).”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My greatest mentor has been my wife, Amy. As I’ve grown in my career, she has been the one to keep me grounded, always reminding me of who I am and where I came from. She helps me keep perspective and not lose sight of what truly matters – friends, family and relationships. Amy reminds me to prioritize balance and that has made me not only a better leader, but also a better person.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATION: “‘Factfulness’ by Hans Rosling. It’s a great reminder that headlines can be sensational, and to truly understand what’s happening, you need to look beyond the news and stay open to different perspectives.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Being on the water. Wisconsin is the Water Ski Show Capital of the World, after all. Whether it’s waterskiing, competing, or just pontooning with family and friends, some of my best memories have started on the water.”

Jay Mack WISCONSIN MARKET HEAD/CEO

TOWN BANK/WINTRUST | HARTLAND

JAY MACK has been with Town Bank/Wintrust since its inception in 1998. He began his career at PNC Bank in Pittsburgh, later became a commercial banking officer at M&I Bank in Milwaukee and then executive vice president of Johnson Bank in Milwaukee before assisting in the startup of Town Bank. He is on the board of Milwaukee Development Corp., Impact Seven CDFI, Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, Seton Catholic Schools, Near West Side Partners and others.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, MBA and master’s in real estate, UW-Milwaukee YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Unfortunately, banks tend to be organized in silos with rather rigid hierarchies relative to other industries. Part of this is driven by being highly regulated, which can create structural barriers in terms of career development. At the same time, the banking industry offers a wide range of potential career paths, and we have a real need to attract more young talent to our industry.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My dad is my biggest mentor. He’s a retired bank president and has shared much wisdom with me over the years. One of the best pieces of advice he gave me is to hire people smarter than yourself, give them room to run and they’ll make you more successful.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “A big mistake I see many business leaders make is that they can’t seem to get out of their own way, meaning they micromanage decisions, have trouble delegating responsibility and don’t develop a strong leadership team. This really prevents many businesses from getting to the next level.”

DREAM CAR: “I’m not a car afficionado, but if I ever have a mid-life crisis, I might buy a Porsche 911 Turbo S. That would be my dream car. I had an opportunity to drive one once. It’s an amazing machine in terms of speed and performance coupled with everyday drivability.”

Cory Nettles

FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR

GENERATION GROWTH CAPITAL | MILWAUKEE

CORY NETTLES is the founder and managing director of Generation Growth Capital Inc., a private equity fund focused on buyouts and growth capital for small and lower-middle market companies in the upper Midwest. He oversees the fund’s strategy, marketing, transactions and portfolio management. Previously, he was a partner at Quarles & Brady LLP and served as Wisconsin’s secretary of commerce. Nettles has served on several corporate and nonprofit boards, including Weyco Group, Baird Funds Inc., Associated Bank, American Family Insurance, Lawrence University and CFC Action Fund.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Lawrence University; J.D., University of Wisconsin-Madison Law School

PRESIDENT AND CEO

JOHNSON FINANCIAL GROUP | RACINE

JIM POPP is president and chief executive officer of Johnson Financial Group, the holding company of Johnson Bank and Johnson Wealth Inc. Popp previously worked for nearly three decades at JPMorgan Chase, where he led teams across five states as market president. Popp serves on the boards of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, Greater Milwaukee Committee and the Marcus Performing Arts Center.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Vanderbilt; MBA, DePaul University Kellstadt Graduate School of Business

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “We make it a point to host a monthly lunch where every new associate spends an hour with the top seven to eight leaders in our company. We get to know them, and they get to know us personally. They hear how important culture is in our company.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “The industry is dynamic and evolving, while also going through rapid consolidation. Some jobs that may have had a defined career path in the past may be consolidated away or disintermediated by AI or other technology. Career growth today requires associates to be flexible, adaptable and willing to learn new things and take on new challenges to stay on a growth path.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My best mentor was probably my dad, and I don’t think he ever thought of himself that way. He taught me the value of humility just from the way he was. He would say: ‘If you don’t find humility first, it will eventually find you.’”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “‘You should really try kale … it’s good!’”

Jim Popp

Kim

Sponem

CEO AND PRESIDENT

SUMMIT CREDIT UNION | COTTAGE GROVE

MADISON-NATIVE Kim Sponem has led Summit Credit Union since 2002. Over the past 23 years, Sponem has led Summit’s growth from $200 million in assets to over $7.8 billion with more than 271,740 members. Today, Summit is the largest credit union in Wisconsin and is the top mortgage lender in the state. Among credit unions, Summit is the top provider of Small Business Administration loans in the state by number of loans approved. Sponem has received numerous industry recognitions, including her induction into the America’s Credit Union Museum and the Credit Union Hall of Fame. She also serves as chair for the 2025 United Way Campaign for Dane County.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; MBA, Edgewood College

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “It’s impossible to live up to the ideal that I ‘do it all.’ So many women feel this way. I don’t do it all. That’s unrealistic and a fast-track to burnout. Instead, I try to set reasonable expectations for myself, let others take things on and plan ahead.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “I have a lot of activities I love and almost all of them are weather dependent. Horseback riding, skiing, biking, boating, hiking, socializing, many activities that end in ‘ing.’”

BOOK RECOMMENDATION: “‘Blue Ocean Strategy’ helped to establish Summit’s value proposition. ‘A Man’s Search for Meaning’ by Victor Frankel gave a deep perspective and understanding of the human spirit. I read it in grad school.”

DREAM CAR: “I wanted a new Audi TT in yellow, and Audi stopped making them the year I decided I wanted one and went to order it.”

Mary Ellen Stanek

FOUNDER, MANAGING DIRECTOR AND CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER EMERITUS, BAIRD ADVISORS

PRESIDENT, BAIRD FUNDS

BAIRD | MILWAUKEE

MARY ELLEN STANEK is managing director of Robert W. Baird & Co. and founder and chief investment officer emeritus of Baird Advisors, overseeing more than $170 billion in assets under management. She also serves as president of Baird Funds. She serves on several corporate and nonprofit boards, including the Greater Milwaukee Committee, Milwaukee 7, TEMPO, Professional Dimensions and Milwaukee Women inc. She has also co-chaired numerous capital campaigns, including Marquette University’s Time to Rise campaign, raising over $800 million.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; MBA, UW-Milwaukee

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “We celebrated our 25th anniversary (of Baird Advisors and Baird Funds). ... We started with $18 million in assets under management and have grown to manage over $175 billion today.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Our goal isn’t to get bigger, it’s always to strive to get better. The markets are dynamic and you must be able to respond with continuous insight, impact and improvement.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Trying to do it all themselves vs. building strong teams and strong leaders. It’s more sustainable and enduring that way.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Create more opportunities for young talent. Be seen as a destination to build your career and life. Milwaukee has so many great attributes! I didn’t grow up here but am a huge fan.”

Catherine

Tierney

PRESIDENT AND CEO

COMMUNITY FIRST CREDIT UNION | NEENAH

CATHERINE TIERNEY has spent her nearly 50-year career at Community First Credit Union. She joined the member-owned financial cooperative in 1976 as a teller and receptionist, rising the ranks to become president and chief executive officer. She is credited with helping grow Community First into a financial institution with more than $6 billion in total assets, over 159,000 members, more than 630 employees and 25 full-service branches. She was recognized in 2024 among the Most Powerful Women in Credit Unions by trade publication American Banker. Her extensive nonprofit board experience has included service with the Greater Fox Cities Area Habitat for Humanity, Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, YMCA Fox Cities, Fox Valley Technical College, among others.

Celebrating

Our CEO & President, Kim Sponem

Wisconsin 275 Recognition

Congratulations, K im!

Since 2002, Kim has helped spearhead Summit Credit Union’s growth from $200 million to $7.9 billion in assets and over 273,000 members.

Her dedication to the financial wellness of women and youth, along with her visionary leadership, has improved the financial lives of women, their families and the broader community. Through financial education and tools that inspire action, reduce stress and help build financial security, Kim has made a lasting difference. Kim, we are inspired by your passion for our members, community and all of Team Summit. Congratulations on your well-deserved recognition!

BUSINESS SERVICES

ACCOUNTING

18 Dahlhauser, Christine

DiStefano, P.J.

Gay, David

Gresens, Kurt

Rock, Joe

Aldana, Michael

Krutz, David

Lovern, Susan

Mitich, Rebecca

Orr, Albert 20 Stewart, Timothy

Wahl, Nic 21 Wronski, Andrew

Marketing

Madlom, James & Richards, Lori

Zizzo, Anne

STAFFING

Festerling, Ryan

Frankiewicz, Becky

Nettles, Michelle

Prising, Jonas

Christine Dahlhauser MANAGING PRINCIPAL – WISCONSIN

BAKER TILLY | MADISON

CHRISTINE DAHLHAUSER is managing principal of accounting firm Baker Tilly’s Wisconsin market, overseeing strategy, operations, growth and talent development for its more than 1,000 professionals statewide. She also helps guide firmwide initiatives in growth, technology and compensation. Throughout her career, she has led the Wisconsin manufacturing and distribution team, merger and acquisitions team and was a coleader in the launch of the firm’s family business strategy group. Dahlhauser serves on the board of the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce and has been engaged with United Way of Dane County for over a decade.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; master’s, American University

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “The most effective leaders are those who can see the big picture and connect the dots between people, processes and purpose. Leadership is about more than just guiding strategy; it’s about creating an environment where others can grow, innovate and succeed. I have led through complexity and change, and one of the most rewarding parts has been mentoring others into leadership roles of their own.”

DREAM CAR: “I’ve always dreamed of owning a mid-‘60s Corvette. To inspire me as I began my career, my dad gave me a miniature Corvette, a small reminder to keep striving toward my dreams. For my 50th birthday, my husband teamed up with my dad to surprise me with the real thing: a 1965 Corvette. It was the perfect full-circle moment.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “As a lifelong Wisconsinite, my favorite escape is heading Up North. I especially enjoy time spent with my family on the lakes as well as the classic supper club atmosphere that’s such a beloved part of Wisconsin culture.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATION: “‘The Catalyst: How to Change Anyone’s Mind’ by Jonah Berger. This book offers practical, common-sense principles for driving meaningful change within organizations.”

P.J. DiStefano

MANAGING PARTNER

DELOITTE | MILWAUKEE

P.J. DISTEFANO is managing partner of Deloitte’s Milwaukee practice, overseeing its audit, tax, consulting and advisory services, while leading marketplace and community initiatives. With more than 24 years in public accounting, he serves major public power, utility and industrial companies as lead client service and audit partner. He is a member of Deloitte’s Audit & Assurance Operating Committee and has expertise in SEC reporting, IPO readiness and public financings. DiStefano serves on multiple nonprofit boards, and is past chair of the Milwaukee Public Museum board.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; MBA, UW-Madison

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Professional services require a desire for lifelong learning and a passion for client service. For some, this can feel overwhelming and lead to burnout. For others, it is exactly the environment they need to thrive.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “By making an impact that matters, helping our clients solve their most complex challenges, creating opportunities for our team members to grow and encouraging our employees to give back in the communities in which they live.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “I go for a walk or sit by the lake.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I was recently asked this question while participating in a fireside chat with a number of our team members. My answer was, ‘No one. I am doing exactly what I want to do and where I feel I can add the most value to our organization.’ It is absolutely the right answer for me.”

David Gay

OFFICE MANAGING PARTNER EY | MILWAUKEE

DAVID GAY is managing partner of EY’s Milwaukee office, overseeing its Wisconsin practice across assurance, tax, strategy and transactions, and consulting services. With 29 years of audit experience, he advises senior leadership and boards of major multinational companies in the industrial and consumer products sectors. Gay serves on several community and business boards, including the United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County, the Boys & Girls Clubs, the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and the Greater Milwaukee Committee.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “In any industry, viewing a role as only a job versus a career. The mindset is instantly recognizable. Careers are cumulative and every experience builds to what’s next. Too often I see people assume success or leadership ‘starts’ at a different level. It actually started day one.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “Realistically, no one. I love what I do and feel I’m in the right place leveraging what I’m best at. That said, if I were about a foot taller and 100% more athletic, Giannis Antetokounmpo.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “The late Brian Hanley (former EY partner). I learned that it’s not just ok to be myself, it’s imperative. It flipped self-doubt into confidence.” BEST AND WORST HABIT: “Best: writing a handwritten note to my wife every morning when I leave for work. Worst: while overall I think I’m a very patient person, that trait leaves me when someone is driving slowly in the left lane.”

Kurt Gresens

CEO WIPFLI | GREEN BAY

WAUSAU-NATIVE

Kurt Gresens is managing partner and chairman of the board of Wipfli, where he leads the firm’s vision, strategy, growth and overall performance. Ranked among the top 25 CPA and advisory firms in the U.S., Wipfli reported $612 million in net revenue in fiscal 2025 and employs about 3,200 associates. The firm has roughly 54,000 clients and specializes in serving emerging and mid-market organizations in financial services, manufacturing, distribution, health care, construction, real estate, government, nonprofit, agriculture, auto dealerships, technology, tribal gaming and government.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “We received a minority investment from private equity firm New Mountain Capital to further accelerate our momentum and support the strategic path we are on. This positions us to expand our reach and capabilities, ultimately leading to enhanced experiences for both our clients and associates, and helping us remain at the forefront of our industry.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Failing to adapt to the evolving relationship between humans and technology – especially with the rise of AI and automation, which can accelerate the value we provide to clients – and lacking a mindset of continuous learning and intellectual curiosity. As Warren Buffett observed, the accumulation of knowledge compounds like interest. Embracing these qualities is essential to thrive in a rapidly changing industry.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Lambeau Field on game day in December.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “Wait your turn and just be patient.”

Joe Rock

OFFICE MANAGING PARTNER

KPMG | MILWAUKEE

JOE ROCK is managing partner of KPMG’s Milwaukee office, overseeing the firm’s audit, tax and advisory practices in Wisconsin. His nearly 30-year career at KPMG has included international assignments in Sydney and Bangkok and time in its deal advisory practice in Chicago. Rock has worked with public and private companies, including Fortune 100 firms, family-owned and private equity-owned businesses and international clients. He serves on multiple local boards, including Milwaukee Film, United Performing Arts Fund and the Zoological Society of Milwaukee, among others.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University

AND MANAGING PARTNER QUARLES & BRADY | MILWAUKEE

MICHAEL ALDANA is chair and managing partner of Milwaukee-based Quarles & Brady, one of the largest law firms in the state, with 525 attorneys across its 13 offices. Aldana oversees the firm’s strategic direction, operations and business management. In his legal practice, Aldana advises employers on labor and employment matters and serves as outside general counsel to clients, providing guidance on crisis management, public relations and engagement with regulatory and governmental agencies. He serves on the boards of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, City Forward Collective and University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Foundation.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Milwaukee; J.D., University of Michigan Law School

David Krutz

MANAGING PARTNER

MICHAEL BEST & FRIEDRICH LLP | MILWAUKEE

DAVID KRUTZ is managing partner of Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, where he oversees the law firm’s strategic growth and client relationships. Under his leadership, the firm has expanded into a national presence with more than 300 lawyers and professionals. With over 25 years of experience, Krutz is a leader in construction law, advising clients on complex contracts, risk management and dispute resolution across the construction industry. He joined Michael Best in 1990 as a summer clerk and has served as managing partner since 2008.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; J.D., Northwestern University School of Law

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “As with many industries, AI is dramatically changing not only how the legal industry operates but how our talent, attorneys and non-attorneys, develop their skills. The job of our leadership team is to ensure our firm is equipped to thrive in this dynamic setting, as the traditional methods of learning how to practice the law will need to adapt as well.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “My iPad is my favorite. It meets all of my needs: great for Teams meetings, easy to handle emails on planes, take notes during in-person meetings and watch videos during downtime. I love it.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Grilled balsamic-marinated chicken breasts with rosemary potatoes and asparagus. Usually best prepared with a glass of an Oregon Pinot Noir.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Camp Randall on a sunny, crisp fall afternoon with the Badgers playing another Big Ten team (and a win!).”

120 Years is Just the Beginning

For 120 years, we’ve been a trusted partner to our clients and communities. With a team of 200+ professionals in Wisconsin, Chicago, and Naples, Florida, we’re raising the bar for excellence—and we’re just getting started. Our next chapter begins now.

Michael Aldana CHAIR

business services | Law

Susan Lovern PRESIDENT AND CEO VON BRIESEN & ROPER S.C. | MILWAUKEE

SUSAN LOVERN is president and chief executive officer of von Briesen & Roper s.c. and co-chairs the Milwaukee-based law firm’s commercial and business litigation section. With offices throughout Wisconsin, and in New York, Florida and Chicago, von Briesen has more than 180 lawyers and 320 total employees. Lovern represents business litigation clients including hospitals, health systems, banks, manufacturers and businesses of all sizes. She regularly handles contract, lease and warranty disputes for her clients, as well as business torts, class action defense, shareholder and non-compete agreements, unfair competition and trade secrets.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Northern Iowa; J.D., University of Iowa College of Law

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “I started as president and CEO exactly three months before COVID, so my first few years definitely had a different focus than today. Looking ahead, I see my job evolving into further growth strategy, shaping the next generation of leaders and continual process improvement.”

BEST AND WORST HABIT: “Best habit: Not saying ‘no’ very often. Worst habit: Not saying ‘no’ very often.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “My coffee maker. Not much happens before I hit ‘brew.’”

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “I am proud of many things that we’ve accomplished over the past 12 months on behalf of our clients, whether it made the newspapers or just made our clients’ day. But when looking at our firm as a whole, our most significant success over the past 12 months is actually two things: celebrating 120 years of service and winning the Top Workplace award 16 consecutive times, the same number of times the award has been in existence.”

Timothy Stewart PRESIDENT AND MANAGING PARTNER DEWITT LLP | BROOKFIELD

TIM STEWART is president and managing partner of DeWitt, where he leads the law firm and maintains an active practice focused on employee benefits and employee stock ownership plans. Based in Brookfield, he advises businesses nationwide on establishing and maintaining compliant benefit plans, addressing IRS and Department of Labor requirements and resolving complex plan issues. In addition to his leadership role, Stewart co-authors the DeWitt ESOP News Feed and regularly counsels employers on retirement, health and welfare plan compliance.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and J.D., UW-Madison

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “The keys to career growth for an attorney in a law firm are: 1) developing expertise; 2) marketing that expertise. Believe it or not, the latter key tends to be the bigger obstacle. Fewer and fewer attorneys are inclined to put in the (non-billable) work to develop the network and relationships necessary to be successful.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “(DeWitt attorney) Brian Anderson is the reason I came to DeWitt in 2005, and he is also the reason I became an ESOP attorney. The No. 1 thing I learned from him is that your reputation as a person will precede your reputation as a professional.”

BEST AND WORST HABIT: “Keeping a clean email inbox. It definitely keeps me organized, but it also causes me a lot of stress when I am out of the office. Sometimes, I find it hard to enjoy myself on vacation because I am envisioning my email inbox piling up.”

DREAM CAR: “I saw a mint-colored Rolls Royce at the airport the other day that I thought was incredible. But at 6’6” I don’t fit well in most cars.”

Nic Wahl PRESIDENT AND MANAGING PARTNER

GODFREY & KAHN | MILWAUKEE

NIC WAHL leads Godfrey & Kahn, where he oversees the law firm’s operations and maintains a practice in mergers and acquisitions, private equity, business law, succession planning and real estate. A native of Green Bay, Wahl joined the firm in 1990 and became president and managing partner in 2011. He serves on the boards of TerraLex and the University of Wisconsin Law School Board of Visitors and is a member of several professional and community organizations.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Kansas; J.D., University of Wisconsin Law School

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “The business leaders who I admire are all good listeners, they tend to be optimistic, and they approach their job with empathy. After listening to different perspectives and inputs, they also have to be decisive.” HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “I’ve been at our firm for over 35 years and in my current role for 15 years. My focus has always been on trying to do everything possible to set up our next generations for success and as you get more senior, that focus is heightened.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “Any starting pitcher for the Brewers. Give me the ball every five games and let me play golf and cards on the off days!”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “I wish all of us could focus on all the things we have in common instead of the things that divide us. As a state, we have so much to offer and so much to be proud of. I would also vote for continuing to spend money on our infrastructure and transportation hubs.”

Mitich

OFFICE MANAGING PARTNER

HUSCH BLACKWELL | MILWAUKEE

REBECCA MITICH is managing partner for Husch Blackwell’s Milwaukee office, where she represents developers, investors, lenders and companies in a range of real estate and financial transactions. Her practice focuses on tax-advantaged real estate development, and she is a sought-after expert on opportunity zones. She also advises clients on the acquisition, disposition and financing of housing, office and retail properties. She is former president of the Northwest Side Community Development Corp. board and currently serves on the board of directors of the Urban Ecology Center.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Kalamazoo College; master’s, Framingham State College; J.D., Marquette University Law School

Albert Orr

CHAIR, CEO AND PRESIDENT REINHART BOERNER VAN DEUREN S.C. | MILWAUKEE

ALBERT ORR is chairman, chief executive officer and president of Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. and a shareholder in the firm’s corporate law practice. With more than 200 attorneys and 389 employees across nine offices, Reinhart is one of the largest law firms in the Milwaukee area. A well-known attorney, Orr has worked with private equity funds, portfolio companies and privately held businesses on complex mergers, acquisitions and financing. He serves on the boards of JobsWork MKE and Radio Milwaukee and serves on the chairman’s council of Children’s Wisconsin.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Miami University; J.D., The Ohio State University’s Moritz College of Law HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “I meet with every new employee, visit in person with all attorneys at least once each year and I remind our leaders that what they do has a bigger impact than what they say.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Intellectual curiosity, empathy, agility.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “‘Nickel Boys,’ ‘The Good Lord Bird,’ ‘Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow,’ ‘Fahrenheit 451.’”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “My bicycle, a Specialized Roubaix with a carbon fiber frame and electronic shifting.”

Rebecca

Andrew Wronski

MANAGING PARTNER

FOLEY & LARDNER LLP | MILWAUKEE

ANDREW WRONSKI is managing partner of the Milwaukee office of Foley & Lardner LLP, the largest law firm in Wisconsin. He is also chair of the firm’s manufacturing sector. With more than 30 years of experience, he represents corporate clients in complex commercial, contractual and supply chain disputes as well as M&A litigation and trade secret matters. He also advises clients in the sports industry and has extensive trial and arbitration experience. Wronski is a former president of the Milwaukee Bar Association and active in several professional legal organizations.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; J.D., University of Minnesota Law School

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “The firm celebrated the opening of its 27th office in Nashville, and recorded record revenue in excess of $1.275 billion.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “The world – business, politics, technology, culture – is constantly changing and more volatile than ever. A successful business leader needs to be decisive, but also nimble, and must be able to connect with today’s workforce and the priorities and values of younger workers.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Like all businesses, law firms are watching and adapting to rapid technological change, particularly in AI. While law will always be, in my opinion, a ‘relationship’ business based on trust, AI will certainly drive more efficient and effective client service delivery models. Some of those will no doubt be gamechangers.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “Among many things, Jay Rothman (former chairman and CEO of Foley & Lardner and now president of the Universities of Wisconsin) taught me the importance and true meaning of servant leadership.”

CO-CEOS

MUELLER COMMUNICATIONS | MILWAUKEE

JAMES MADLOM AND LORI RICHARDS together lead Mueller Communications, a fullservice public relations agency in Milwaukee. Madlom and Richards were promoted to cochief executive officer roles in 2020 as part of the firm’s succession plan, following the retirement of founder Carl Mueller. The firm has been influential in helping secure public financing for major redevelopment projects, managing corporate crises, overseeing major rebranding initiatives and growing brand recognition for companies across the region. Its clients have included Northwestern Mutual, Johnson Controls, the Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee School of Engineering, the Milwaukee Public Museum and the Greater Milwaukee Foundation.

EDUCATION: Madlom: Bachelor’s and J.D., Marquette University

Richards: Bachelor’s, Marquette University

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: Madlom: “Carl Mueller, our firm’s founder and namesake, is an inspirational leader and incomparable mentor. He instilled in all of us a core value: ‘do the right thing’ for our clients, colleagues and community. And he lives it, every day. He’s unfailingly loyal, uncommonly generous and unabashedly optimistic. And Milwaukee is far better for it.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: Richards: “Like everyone, we are determining how to best harness the strengths of AI to maximize our business. I am anticipating continuing to ‘lead courageously’ (a term coined in a recent Harvard Business Review feature) and employ a growth mindset, knowing that AI will present changes to our industry not unlike the advent of social media and digital news platforms.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: Madlom: “Biking with my girls, cheering on my kids at their games and performances and board games at home with the family.”

YOUR GO-TO MEAL AT HOME: Richards: “Charcuterie for dinner is the best!”

James Madlom and Lori Richards

Valerie Hill

Anne Zizzo FOUNDER AND CEO ZIZZO GROUP | MILWAUKEE

OVER THE PAST 30 YEARS, Anne Zizzo has grown Zizzo Group from a startup in her basement into one of the region’s largest marketing and advertising firms. Under her leadership, the company has made seven acquisitions and created the brand and website for the 2024 Republican National Convention’s local host committee. Zizzo personally co-chaired the “Red, White & Brew Welcome Party” event that kicked off the RNC. In 2021, she also founded Zizzo Ventures LLC, a company that focuses on real estate investment, leasing and development opportunities.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “I see my job continuing to be one where I work more ‘on the business’ relative to strategy and vision for the future versus ‘in it.’ ... I would also like to acquire and redevelop another historic building.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATION: “‘The 5 Day Weekend: Freedom to Make Your Life and Work Rich with Purpose’ by Nick Halik and Garrett B. Gunderson.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “When I get stuck creatively, I create intentional disruption – changing my environment, shaking up routines or seeking unexpected perspectives. This disruption breaks patterns, sparks fresh thinking and unbottlenecks stalled ideas.”

YOUR GO-TO MEAL AT HOME: “Blackened Sockeye Salmon and a 100 Acre salad, topped with a vinaigrette dressing I learned to make at a cooking class in Barcelona when I solo traveled across Spain last summer.”

Becky Frankiewicz PRESIDENT AND CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER MANPOWERGROUP | MILWAUKEE

BECKY FRANKIEWICZ oversees operations across ManpowerGroup’s brands, including Manpower, Experis and Talent Solutions. She is a soughtafter expert on labor market trends and the future of work, speaking at events such as the World Economic Forum and appearing on platforms like CNBC, Fox News and the Wall Street Journal. Before joining ManpowerGroup, she was president of Quaker Foods North America, a $2.6 billion subsidiary of PepsiCo, and prior to that held leadership roles at PepsiCo in innovation, finance, strategy and operations.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and MBA, University of Texas HOW YOUR ROLE WILL EVOLVE: “There are things we must do now to run our businesses, and there are things we must do next to shape the future. Both are critical. At ManpowerGroup, we’ve divided the focus clearly: our country managers run the ‘now.’ My role as chief strategy officer is the ‘next.’ I study how AI can help us perform better and be more in service of people. We must hold two ideas in our mind at once.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Leaders must still do, but they must also coach and inspire. The best leaders are working leaders – they contribute, but they also create space for others to grow.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “The Wisconsin State Fair. It’s one of my favorite things about living here — the food, the people-watching, the mix of tradition and joy. It reminds me of where I came from: small-town Texas energy but with cheese curds.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “I know that running gives me energy, but it’s not enough anymore. So now I take a walk after lunch – ten minutes by the river here in Milwaukee. My team knows that if I’m late for a meeting, it’s because I walked, and I come back a better leader.”

Ryan Festerling

PRESIDENT AND CEO

QPS EMPLOYMENT GROUP | BROOKFIELD

RYAN FESTERLING is chief executive officer of QPS Employment Group, a Brookfield-based staffing firm with more than 50 locations across the Midwest. The firm has over 300 internal employees and employs more than 6,000 associate employees weekly, working with more than 1,500 companies. Under his leadership, QPS transitioned from being a founder-led company into a 100% employee-owned company. Prior to joining QPS in 2019, Festerling was executive vice president of human resources at Kohl’s where he oversaw people operations for 130,000 employees nationwide. A native of Racine, he serves on the boards of Wisconsin Lutheran High School and the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-La Crosse

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “Being obsessed with benchmarking. Too often we compare ourselves to other businesses or individuals. Benchmark is often average and I don’t ever want to be average. Stick to your plan.”

BEST AND WORST HABIT: “Being curious. Same answer for both. I love to ask questions to get to the root of the challenge and understand how people think. I am ultra curious. It can turn into a bad habit when I don’t take action soon enough. The answer will never be 100% clear, so making a decision and adjusting is key.”

DREAM CAR: “1969 Bronco. Old school.”

PEOPLE AND LEGAL OFFICER MANPOWERGROUP | MILWAUKEE

AS CHIEF people & legal officer, Michelle Nettles oversees Milwaukeebased ManpowerGroup’s human resources and legal functions across 75 countries and territories. She also serves on the company’s executive leadership team. Previously, she spent 20 years at Molson Coors Brewing Co. in senior human resources and legal roles. Nettles also serves on several nonprofit and corporate boards, including Dr. Howard Fuller Collegiate Academy, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and RXO Inc.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Florida A&M University; J.D., UWMadison

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “In my experience, I have found three keys to becoming a successful business leader: 1) Be a learn-it-all, not a knowit-all. 2) Leverage and demonstrate care for team. 3) Always be willing to adapt and change your ways of working.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I would change jobs with Adam Grant, Amy Edmondson or any other organizational psychologist. I’m fascinated by how human behaviors impact organizations and vice versa. This is why I love HR and law – they’re so interconnected.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “One of the first things I do is read. I also love finding a setting where I can listen and be an observer – whether it’s attending a conference or simply sitting at a café or bar. ... Lastly, I talk to someone considerably younger to understand how they see the world and what excites them and why.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “One of my favorite activities is walking Lakeshore State Park next to the Summerfest grounds here in the heart of Milwaukee. It’s a beautiful intersection of nature, entertainment and art that also overlooks all of the commerce of our city’s downtown. … And I still love going to Camp Randall Stadium and jumping around, as long as it’s 50 degrees or warmer.”

JONAS PRISING is chairman and chief executive officer of ManpowerGroup, leading all aspects of the business, with about $18 billion in annual revenue, across 75 countries and territories worldwide. He joined Manpower more than 25 years ago and has held leadership roles overseeing North America, the Americas, southern Europe, Right Management and ManpowerGroup Solutions. A native of Stockholm, Prising is an international expert on the labor market and future of work. He serves on several corporate and nonprofit boards, including Kohl’s Corp., JA Worldwide and the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce.

EDUCATION: MBA, Stockholm School of Economics

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Your success is your team’s success; leadership is a team sport. To be a good leader you must be capable, have a bias for action, put others before self and have a strong moral compass.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “I love to be out on our beautiful Lake Michigan; Door County is the go-to destination for our family – and I love to be out on the water, we are so lucky to have such a beautiful fresh coast just a short drive from our city. I also play hockey regularly and support our great Milwaukee sports teams – you can find me watching the Bucks regularly during the season.”

FAVORITE PODCAST: “I like to make sure I am tapped into a global perspective on news, so the BBC is my go-to.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “I am passionate about unlocking the potential of the talent we have in our city – we need to do more to enable everyone to have opportunity and to create more inclusion. Wisconsin, and Milwaukee in particular, has a skilled and diverse talent pool that we need to do more to utilize.”

Michelle Nettles CHIEF

Jonas Prising CHAIRMAN & CEO MANPOWERGROUP | MILWAUKEE

C-SUITE

C-suite

24 Abston, Ian

24 Fronk, Susan

24 Jendusa, Jerry

24 Juedes, Chip

25 Keller, Rustin

26 Mattke, Tim

26 Poehling Seymour, Katie

26 Ritchie, Kip

27 Uihlein, Liz

27 Uihlein, Dick

28 Veum, Mike

28 Wiedemeier, Craig

30 Wright Cottrell, DeVona

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Oshkosh

Ian Abston PRESIDENT FORWARD 48, HOAN GROUP | MILWAUKEE

ELKHART LAKE-NATIVE Ian Abston is an entrepreneur focused on civic leadership and talent engagement in Wisconsin. He was among the founders of NEWaukee, a network for Milwaukee’s young professionals, and cofounded the Hoan Group, a network of 160 leaders focused on bridging Wisconsin’s economic, political and cultural divides. He later launched Forward 48, a statewide leadership development program. Abston also co-founded and serves on the board of Light the Hoan, which raised over $4 million to illuminate Milwaukee’s Hoan Bridge.

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Over the past year, we’ve doubled the size of our company while expanding Forward 48’s momentum statewide. We launched two cohorts and grew our reach into Green Bay, Racine, and Kenosha, creating a stronger connected pipeline of Wisconsin’s best talent. We also launched the Green Bay City Exchange and opened a Green Bay chapter of the Hoan Group.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I honestly don’t want anyone else’s job – that’s why I’m an entrepreneur. I love what I do and couldn’t imagine doing anything else. That said, if I had to switch, I’d trade with Tom Paprocki (managing director, Direct Supply Innovation and Technology Center). I’m not even sure what he does for work, but he’s got more costumes than most theater companies, and for that reason alone I’d love to know what a typical day in his life is like.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “My Bee AI-Wearable – it keeps my life in order and helps me stay on track.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “‘The Medici Effect’ or ‘The Monster at the End of This Book,’ a classic in our house thanks to Elmo.”

Jerry Jendusa OWNER

BREAKTHROUGH STRATEGIES INC. | MUSKEGO

A HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL entrepreneur, Jerry Jendusa advises and invests in emerging companies through his business advisory firm, Breakthrough Strategies. He is chairman and a major investor in Monona-based Vendura Industries, Muskego-based Biocut Systems (d.b.a. Xiogenix) and Kentucky-based Ardent Animal Health. He is co-chair of Scale Up Milwaukee and an advisory member for the UWM Lubar Center for Entrepreneurship’s entrepreneur-in-residence program. He has starred for several seasons as a mogul on the TV show ‘Project Pitch It’. He and his wife, Becky, are longtime supporters of Make-A-Wish Wisconsin, Children’s Wisconsin’s behavioral health initiatives, and UW-Milwaukee.

Earlier in his career, Jendusa co-founded New Berlin-based Emteq Inc., a manufacturer of aircraft interior and exterior lighting systems and aircraft cabin management and power systems. The company started in his basement and ultimately grew to an international $100 million outfit with 650 employees before its sale in 2014.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Milwaukee

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Consistency, transparency, empathy, delegation (working through others) and sharing of values, vision and mission to help support self-directed work and the formation of transformational teams.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “The collective partnerships amongst foundations and philanthropic endeavors to have an even greater impact on this great state we live in.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “My relatively new iPhone coming after years of Androids.”

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Growth in our people, products, drug development programs, international launch of tissue-based products, solid surface modular growth. Additionally, our strategy has been focused in on key accounts and prospects thus aligning our people with our process and our strategy.”

Susan Fronk PRESIDENT AND CEO MRA | WAUKESHA

SUSAN FRANK is president and CEO of MRA, a nonprofit employers association with more than 3,000 member organizations across five states. Since joining MRA in 1984, she has held a range of leadership roles, guiding the organization’s growth and advancing employer-focused human resource solutions. She serves on the Junior Achievement of Milwaukee executive committee and has fundraised for Milwaukee Athletes for Childhood Cancer, the Milwaukee Public Museum and the Medical College of Wisconsin.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Arizona State University; MBA, Keller Graduate School of Management

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “I didn’t coin the phrase, but I agree that culture eats strategy for lunch. Future-focused and value-driven strategy is just table stakes – many companies do that well enough. Being able to execute with agility, excellence and customer focus is essential for success.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I think I am a farmer at heart. Literally and figuratively, I like to plant things and help them grow. There is tremendous satisfaction in the hard work, patience and determination in the face of, at times, uncontrollable odds to produce results on a farm.”

BEST AND WORST HABIT: “I think it’s the same for both – I’m a little intense, and very driven to achieve the goal. That can come across as impatience, so I try to temper that with being other-oriented, creative and always bringing a sense of humor.“

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “My three kids are in their 20s now, but I have very fond memories of our many trips to the Wisconsin Dells. Gorgeous scenery, Duck boat rides, water parks, the Wonder Spot, all the bit tacky t-shirt shops, palm readers, fudge makers and old-timey photographers – perfect. Great fun!”

Chip Juedes CEO

FOX WORLD TRAVEL INC. | OSHKOSH

CHIP JUEDES is chief executive officer of Fox World Travel, a travel agency that provides business travel management for more than 400 corporations worldwide. Juedes began his career as a travel agent and advanced through leadership roles in finance, administration and marketing, ultimately becoming the third generation in his family to lead Fox World Travel. Outside his firm, he serves on Delta Air Lines’ Agency Advisory Board and the BCD Affiliate Advisory Board.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “The ability to communicate effectively. A healthy dose of vulnerability and transparency must be present to ensure the communication and messaging resonates. In addition, the willingness to have those possibly uncomfortable, face-to-face conversations will be integral in how a leader is able to connect with and lead others. As artificial intelligence continues to play a role in our personal and professional lives, genuine communication and conversation will continue to be the difference-maker when it comes to successful leadership.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “As you might guess, travel – whether for business or pleasure. There is something about being in an airport and on a plane that both changes my mindset and brings about perspective and creativity.”

DREAM CAR: “A vintage Land Rover Defender.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “Either going for a run to help clear the noise and get some uninterrupted focus time, or simply time at an airport or on a plane, with time to think.”

Rustin Keller

PRESIDENT AND CEO

J.

J. KELLER & ASSOCIATES

INC. | NEENAH

RUSTIN KELLER is the third-generation family leader of J. J. Keller & Associates Inc., a Neenah-based company that provides products and services to help businesses with safety and regulatory compliance, particularly in the transportation, OSHA and human resources fields. It has over 2,000 employees dispersed across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and in India. Previously, Keller was executive vice president and COO of the firm and held leadership roles related to technology services, consulting services, managed services, sales, manufacturing and supply chain divisions.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “I believe successful business leaders are in the trenches. I think the term ‘micromanaging’ has gotten misconstrued over the years, resulting in leaders concerned they are micromanaging so much so they operate only from a 50,000-foot level. I agree prescribing how to solve a business issue or accomplish a goal should be left up to the associates to solve. But business leaders should be asking a lot of questions, digging into the details, challenging assumptions and actively participating with teams as they work to set goals and achieve those goals.”

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “J. J. Keller has reintroduced several of our flagship platforms with updated user interfaces based on customer feedback, AI features that can accelerate results, and a goal of being best in class across the many industries we serve.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATION: “I recommend ‘Creativity, Inc.’ by Ed Catmull, one of the founders of Pixar Animation Studios. It’s fascinating how a science/technology-type person was able to lead one of the most successful creative companies in the world.”

QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “I grew up with a cottage on Lake Poygan. Boating, campfires, sunsets on Lake Poygan are amazingly Wisconsin!”

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, UW-Madison

Tim Mattke CEO MGIC

| MILWAUKEE

TIM MATTKE is chief executive officer of MGIC and its parent company, MGIC Investment Corp. He previously was executive vice president and chief financial officer, controller and held other accounting and finance roles at MGIC. Earlier in his career, Mattke was an audit manager with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. Mattke serves on the boards of Acts Housing, Goodwill Greater Milwaukee & Chicago and West Bend Insurance Co. and sits on the Advisory Council of SecureFutures. He previously served on the board for the United Performing Arts Fund and co-chaired the organization’s 2025 campaign.

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “The tone starts from the top, and it needs to be embedded in everything we do as a company. But nothing replaces how critical co-worker relationships are at reinforcing what matters most.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Most leaders I know are amazingly smart, but what differentiates the successful leaders is their soft skills. They know how to relate to others and are empathetic.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “As leaders, setting forth the right strategy is an important part of the role. However, ignoring the execution will lead to failure of the best plan.”

MOST REWATCHED MOVIE: “‘Zoolander.’ It teaches the valuable lesson that if you can’t turn both directions, someone might surpass you.”

Kip Ritchie CEO POTAWATOMI

VENTURES | MILWAUKEE

KIP RITCHIE was named chief executive officer of Potawatomi Ventures in 2023, becoming the first tribal member to hold that position within the business development arm of the Forest County Potawatomi Community. Ritchie joined Potawatomi Ventures full time in 2006 as senior vice president, was later named president of its subsidiary, Greenfire Management Services LLC, and was then promoted to chief operating officer of Potawatomi Ventures. He serves on the boards of the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development, UW-Milwaukee Business Advisory Council, Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corp. and Waukesha County Business Alliance, among others.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Expanding our team, promoting our people from within and finding new opportunities to bring our FCP Tribal membership into the business. We completed an acquisition of an electrical services contractor, Lyons Electric. We expanded and launched a new Fireside Market convenience store brand in southeastern Wisconsin. And we also continued to grow and expand our federal government contracting businesses throughout the U.S. and overseas.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “As a portfolio company in Indian Country, we are the first generation to find success in diversifying our economies. That does not come easy as there were many hard lessons along the way, but we appreciate the confidence and trust from our board and our tribal leadership. We must demonstrate patience, cultural fluency, resilience and a values-driven leadership style; we need to balance ambition with a commitment to the broader mission of tribal prosperity.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My father, Robert Ritchie. Remember where you came from and treat everyone with respect.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATION: “‘Rebuilding Native Nations’ by Mirian Jorgensen.”

CEO AND PRESIDENT FIRST SUPPLY | MADISON

KATIE POEHLING SEYMOUR is chief executive officer and president of First Supply, a fifthgeneration, family-led company with 750 employees and 53 facilities across six states. The company is a distributor of plumbing, HVAC, municipal, waterworks, well and septic, builder PVF and industrial supplies for building contractors and industrial customers in the Midwest. Poehling Seymour has served as an industry leader, including as the 2023 president of the American Supply Association and as its chairwoman in 2024. She is also on the boards of the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributers and Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Arizona State University; J.D., Notre Dame Law School

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Our dedicated team and I have officially completed our largest project in our 128-year history, successfully opening and beginning operations out of our state-of-the-art, 308,000-square-foot distribution center in the county (La Crosse) where our business started. … Since operations began out of the new distribution center in May 2025, we have been able to amplify our business to grow revenue, improve experience and prepare our business for the future.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My greatest mentor has been my father. I will forever look up to him as one of the best leaders I have seen; his ability to connect with others and lead with grace has inspired the leader I am today and I know there will always be more I can learn from him.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “There is nothing better than evening walks with my family. Our girls take their bikes, and my husband and I walk, having a chance to slow down and be together at the end of the day. The ice cream we have when we get home often doesn’t hurt either!”

FAVORITE PODCAST: “I have found a lot of value in the Harvard Business Review’s ‘Coaching Real Leaders’ podcast. The host, Muriel Wilkins, does a great job covering important topics for current and future leaders.”

Katie Poehling Seymour

Dick Uihlein CEO AND CHAIRMAN

ULINE

|

PLEASANT PRAIRIE

liz Uihlein

PRESIDENT ULINE | PLEASANT PRAIRIE

SINCE FOUNDING ULINE in 1980, Dick and Liz Uihlein have grown the company into one of North America’s largest distributors of shipping, industrial and packaging supplies, from a single product to a catalog of more than 43,000 products. With an estimated $8 billion in annual revenue, the company now has more than 9,800 employees across 14 locations in the U.S., Mexico and Canada. With an estimated net worth of $5.9 billion, the Uihleins ranked No. 239 on Forbes’ list of the 400 wealthiest Americans in 2025. The couple is a major donor to the Republican Party, having made significant contributions to the campaigns of former Gov. Scott Walker and President Donald Trump. Dick is also president of the Ed Uihlein Family Foundation, a grantmaking institution that supports civic organizations and political groups and causes.

EDUCATION: Dick: Bachelor’s, Stanford University

Liz: Boston University

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: Liz: “George Mosher, the founder of National Business Furniture in Milwaukee, always said, ‘It’s the journey, not the destination.’ For him, building NBF was all about the journey and enjoying it. I feel the same about the journey building Uline. George was the smartest Harvard guy I ever knew and had a passion for business. His wife, Julie, worked closely with him. George and Julie were the best and loved Milwaukee.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATION: Liz: “I read multiple papers before I go to work each day to get the latest on world events and politics. It’s important to know what’s happening locally, and in the world, in order to make business decisions.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: Liz: “Our people share a passion for work ethic, attention to detail, and operational excellence. Working at Uline isn’t for everyone. We have a dress code, work every day in person and proudly have a drug-free work environment. It’s tough to interview at Uline and hard to get in. Some people do not like the culture, but at the end of the day, our employees always say that it’s the people they love at Uline. We are proud of our culture and our people.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: Liz: “Manitowish Waters.”

DAVE KIEVET CONGRATULATIONS

Your commitment to excellence and exceptional leadership continue Boldt’s legacy of creating opportunities for people to thrive.

Your recognition as one of the 2025 Wisconsin 275 is well deserved!

Mike Veum PRESIDENT AND CEO IEWC | NEW BERLIN

MIKE VEUM leads IEWC, a global, employeeowned distributor of wire and cable products. He joined the company as president of the OEM North American division in 2016, was named corporate president in 2017 and became CEO in 2018. IEWC operates out of 22 locations in 11 countries and has 1,025 employees and more than 62,000 customers globally. Under his leadership, IEWC has grown revenue by over 70% and, in 2025, the company acquired Sussex-based Bevco Engineering. Before IEWC, Veum spent more than two decades at Brady Corp.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “We acquired Bevco Engineering, which was a major move for us. It’s a great fit culturally and strategically. It gives us deeper engineering and manufacturing capabilities – especially in medical and industrial automation – and it accelerates our shift into more value-add solutions. It’s not just about scale, it’s about solving more problems for our customers, faster.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Being genuine. People follow leaders who care – who listen, support and invest in their teams. If you want people to be engaged, you have to create a culture they’re excited to be part of. That doesn’t happen by accident; it takes intention.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Indecisiveness. Some leaders get stuck chasing the perfect answer and end up doing nothing. In a fast-moving world, you’ve got to be willing to make decisions with 80% of the data. Learn, adjust and keep moving.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “One of my earliest lessons was to surround yourself with the right people. That shaped how I lead. I don’t try to do everything myself. I focus on building teams that are smart, giving them direction, and getting out of the way.”

Todd Adams Chairman and CEO

Craig Wiedemeier

PRESIDENT

WERNER ELECTRIC SUPPLY | APPLETON

CRAIG WIEDEMEIER is president of Werner Electric Supply, a distributor of electrical supplies, automation and digital solutions for industrial, commercial and construction customers. Wiedemeier was previously vice president of operations and chief operating officer before being named president in 2020. He serves on the boards of supplyFORCE and New North Inc. and participates with the United Way Leadership Giving Committee.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; master’s, Marquette University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “The past six months have created some challenges/ opportunities in regard to the management of tariffs and the impacts to our customers. As a distributor with stocking relationships with well over 300 suppliers, the impact was significant. I’m proud of how the team responded in working together to navigate some of the uncertainty that was created to support each other and our customers.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Listen. Be humble. Be yourself. It’s not reasonable to believe that as a leader you have all the answers. Listen and learn from others, be humble and admit when you get it wrong, and be your authentic self. It’s OK to be a little different than everyone else; that’s what makes the world interesting.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “I grew up on a dairy farm and enjoy being outside. When I need some time to think, I need to unplug and do something in nature.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “My wife, Melissa, and I purchased a lake cabin in Minocqua a number of years ago and thus we enjoy the lake life. ‘Heading north to our cabin’ on the weekends is about as Wisconsin as it gets!”

Congratulations, Todd!

Your vision, values and steady leadership continue to shape Zurn Elkay Water Solutions into a place where people feel supported, empowered and proud to do meaningful work. Your continued service on nonprofit board leadership and community engagement reflects the same commitment to expanding access to cleaner, safer water for all — the mission at the heart of our company.

Thank you for all you do for your associates and for the communities we serve.

Expect More.

Civil Construction | Energy | Engineering & Design

Foundations | Marine | Mission Critical

Renewables | Transportation | Water & Wastewater

The Michels Family of Companies is an international leader in energy and infrastructure construction, delivering safe, reliable solutions to industries focused on improving the quality of daily life throughout the world.

CONGRATULATIONS TO PAT MICHELS for being recognized as one of Wisconsin’s influential leaders. Your passion for improving Wisconsin inspires us as we work in Michels’ home state and around the world.

DeVona Wright Cottrell

CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER AND GENERAL COUNSEL

GMR MARKETING; OMNICOM EXPERIENCE GROUP | NEW BERLIN

MILWAUKEE-NATIVE DeVona Wright Cottrell is chief legal officer and general counsel of GMR Marketing and Omnicom Experience Group, where she oversees legal, risk and compliance functions and advises agency leadership. Before joining GMR in 2020, she was director and associate general counsel at Robert W. Baird & Co. and was previously a partner at Gonzalez, Saggio & Harlan LLP. Wright Cottrell serves on numerous community and corporate boards, including the Greater Milwaukee Foundation and First Federal Bank of Wisconsin.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Jackson State University; J.D., UW-Madison; master’s, UWMilwaukee

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “I would love for my job/role to expand in the next one to two years. I enjoy developing and learning from others. I lead with empathy and trust, and it seems to allow individuals to soar. I also enjoy learning, so I’d like to lead additional disciplines that will stretch my current skillset.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “My primary care physician. I would do this because she is a wonderful practitioner but also because medicine was my second choice for a career. Spending a month in the medical profession in the role of someone that I respect and admire would offer confirmation that I made the right decision by choosing law. For the record, I’m certain that I made the right choice!”

BEST AND WORST HABIT: “My best habit is my optimism in people, and my worst habit is doubting myself.”

FAVORITE PODCAST: “My favorite podcast right now is ‘IMO’ with former first lady Michelle Obama and her brother, Craig Robinson.”

EMERGING INDUSTRIES startups

32 Conroy, Kevin

Dickman, Craig

Iverson, Erik

Johnson, Nadiyah

Kirgues, Joe

Chang, Tina

Harris, Wendy

Nunemaker, Andy

Piefer, Greg

Schuler, Michelle

Bakken, Mark

Eckstrom, Christopher

Guthrie, Dana

Horne, Jonathon 35 Johnson, Ken 35 Neis, John 36 Thome, Carrie 36 Zeratsky, John

emerging industries | Startups

CHAIRMAN AND CEO

EXACT SCIENCES | MADISON

KEVIN CONROY has led Exact Sciences as chief executive officer since 2009, growing the startup into a global cancer diagnostics company with more than 7,000 employees. Conroy has led Exact Sciences through the development and commercialization of its colorectal cancer screening test, Cologuard, and the expansion of its portfolio through over 10 acquisitions, including Genomic Health. In November, Exact Sciences announced that it will be acquired by Illinois-based Abbott Laboratories in a $21 billion deal. Exact Sciences will maintain its presence in Madison and Conroy will remain with the company in an advisory role to support the transition. A native of Flint, Michigan, he currently serves on the board for the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Michigan State University; J.D., University of Michigan Law School

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “The complexity of science and the pace of change are the same challenges that make biotech so rewarding. The key to growth is curiosity, resilience and a willingness to keep learning.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “I see my role evolving to focus even more on scaling the impact of the innovation we’ve brought to market. With three new tests launched this year, my priority will be ensuring we deliver them to as many patients as possible while continuing to invest in the pipeline of what’s next.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Successful leaders guide with clarity and inspire with vision. Clarity is critical. Teams thrive when they know exactly how their work contributes to the bigger picture. Without it, even the most talented people can lose direction. Equally important is vision, a future that inspires people to rally together and push beyond what they thought possible.”

Erik

Iverson CEO

WISCONSIN ALUMNI RESEARCH FOUNDATION | MADISON

ERIK IVERSON leads the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation, an organization that patents and licenses discoveries from University of Wisconsin-Madison research, manages an investment portfolio generated from licensing and investment proceeds and provides annual grants to the university in support of scientific investigation and research. As chief executive officer, Iverson oversees the performance of technology transfer operations and WARF’s investment portfolio. Iverson was previously president of business and operations of the Infectious Disease Research Institute and served as the first attorney dedicated to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s global health and agricultural programs.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Gustavus Adolphus College; J.D., University of North Dakota School of Law; master’s, New York University School of Law

Craig Dickman

MANAGING DIRECTOR

TITLETOWNTECH | GREEN BAY

OSHKOSH-NATIVE Craig Dickman is managing partner of TitletownTech, where he helped shape the venture’s original strategy alongside several partners including the Green Bay Packers and Microsoft. An inventor with multiple patents, he founded energy information and supply chain management company Breakthrough Fuel, scaling it to 47 countries before its acquisition by U.S. Venture. He also co-founded StageThree and New Venture Foundry, was chief executive officer of Paper Transport and Master Fleet and held executive positions at Schneider National and SHADE Information Systems. He currently serves on the Green Bay Packers’ board of directors and the Wisconsin Professional Baseball Park District board. Dickman was part of an ownership group that sold the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers minor league baseball team in Appleton in April of 2025. That group still owns the Fond du Lac Dock Spiders, a summer collegiate baseball team.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Green Bay; MBA, UW-Oshkosh

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Successfully executing the TitletownTech Startup Draft in conjunction with the NFL Draft in Green Bay. We received about 1,000 new opportunities to review and ended up with multiple investments we are excited about. Plus, we significantly extended our network of partners and co-investors.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “It’s OK to start and then figure it out.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “The chief of staff to Satja Nadella, CEO at Microsoft. I have been amazed by the cultural transformation he has led, the team he has built, and the technologies they create. I would love to see his leadership up close and understand more about the way he leads.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “To consider retirement.”

CEO AND FOUNDER

JET CONSTELLATIONS, MILKY WAY TECH HUB | MILWAUKEE

NADIYAH JOHNSON is founder of Jet Constellations, a Milwaukee-based technology company, and its social impact initiative, the Milky Way Tech Hub. Her work promotes racial diversity in technology through education, entrepreneurship and community-building and is backed by corporate partners including Northwestern Mutual, Milwaukee Tool and American Family Insurance. Prior to founding Jet Constellations, Johnson worked for GE HealthCare. A three-time graduate of Marquette University, she currently serves as a professor in its computer science department. Her doctoral research focuses on artificial intelligence.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate, Marquette University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Opening our headquarters and fully activating it with digital literacy programs and digital nomad tenants has been a milestone. We also partnered with Associated Bank to launch the first-of-its-kind AI Academy, a six-week AI upskilling program designed specifically for sixth graders.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “I appreciate the consistent business guidance of (my mom) Cynthia Johnson (an Allstate insurance agent). ... one key lesson from her has been the importance of maintaining clarity in both strategy and execution.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “I see myself focusing more on helping clients build AI agents while expanding efforts to upskill our community on AI, ensuring equitable access to this transformative technology. At the same time, I’ll be deepening my advocacy for ethical AI, making sure that the tools we develop and adopt are not only innovative, but also transparent, responsible and inclusive.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I’d choose to be a pastor for a month to deepen my understanding of servant leadership and how to better serve my community.”

Kevin Conroy

Nadiyah Johnson

Joe Kirgues CO-FOUNDER GENER8TOR | MADISON

JOE KIRGUES is co-founder of gener8tor, a national and international network of startup accelerators based in Madison. The network operates 105 accelerator programs across 47 communities in U.S., Puerto Rico, and several international locations including Luxembourg, India and Saudi Arabia. The organization partners with investors, universities and corporations to support entrepreneurs; its graduates have raised more than $2.3 billion in follow-on financing and created over 13,000 jobs. Before founding gener8tor, Kirgues served as a federal judicial law clerk and was an associate at Quarles & Brady LLP. He joined the board of the Center for American Entrepreneurship in early 2025, and he serves on the advisory board to the Batterman School of Business at Concordia University.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; J.D., Univeristy of Wisconsin Law School

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “A local foundation, pension or university endowment manager in hopes we might both better understand how to drive investment and not just charity into our communities.”

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Growth in new states such as Georgia, West Virginia and Texas.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “We wish Wisconsin would create a strategy and pool of capital to invest in amazing founders here instead of exporting our investment commitments to invest in venture capital funds and startups on the coasts.”

BEST AND WORST HABIT: “Best habit is working a lot. Worst habit is working a lot.”

Tina Chang CEO

SYSLOGIC | BROOKFIELD

NEW YORK-NATIVE Tina Chang has led Brookfield-based information systems consulting and services firm SysLogic for nearly 30 years, during which she has spun off two technology startups, SysSpark LLC and Cyberspect LLC. Widely recognized for her leadership in the technology industry, she has received the Wisconsin Business Hall of Fame Peak Performer award, the Governor’s Young Entrepreneur of the Year - Technology award and Professional Dimensions Sacagawea Award, now known as the Imprint Award. Chang currently serves on the board of Glendale-based Weyco Group, and her extensive nonprofit board experience has included Alverno College, Ascension Wisconsin, the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, Milwaukee Public Schools Foundation, Teach for America, Waukesha County Business Alliance, United Performing Arts Fund, United Way, Wisconsin Policy Forum and the YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

Andy Nunemaker CEO

GROUPWARE TECHNOLOGIES | WAUWATOSA

ANDY NUNEMAKER is chief executive officer of Groupware Technologies, a health care software company serving the care management market. Nunemaker co-founded and was CEO of Dynamis Software Corp. and CEO of EMSystems. Earlier, he held a number of executive roles with GE HealthCare, including CEO of GE HealthCare for Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia. He is chairman of the Sprecher Brewing Co. board and serves on the boards of Northwestern Mutual, EmOpti and ConsortiEX. He’s been an active investor with Golden Angels for 20 years. His extensive nonprofit board service includes his current appointments as board chair of the Milwaukee Art Museum and a member of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, Summerfest and Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra boards.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Valparaiso University; master’s, Georgia Tech; MBA, Harvard University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Our company is partnering with the federal government to create a new software solution to help people living with HIV/AIDS. We are a mission-driven company, and this initiative falls directly in line with why we exist.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “I believe a successful business leader needs to have a balance of EQ and IQ, with an emphasis on EQ. By definition, leaders rely on other people, and they will fail without the ability to motivate, mentor and connect.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “CEOs naturally tend to keep looking and moving forward. That sometimes causes them to forget to take time to thank and praise people for a job well done. I find myself making that mistake from time to time even though it’s a top priority for me.”

DREAM CAR: “I’ve always wanted a Bentley GLC but haven’t bought one yet.”

Wendy Harris

REGIONAL INNOVATION OFFICER

WISCONSIN BIOHEALTH TECH HUB | MADISON | MILWAUKEE

WENDY HARRIS is regional innovation officer for the Wisconsin Biohealth Tech Hub, where she leads a consortium of 18 member companies and 30 supporting entities in the biohealth industry with the goal of advancing personalized medicine and technology in the state. She played a key role in securing the state’s Tech Hub designation, along with $80 million in federal funding in 2024. Harris previously spent 33 years at GE HealthCare in executive leadership positions across service, sales, operations, marketing and quality in global markets.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and MBA, UW-Madison

emerging industries | Technology/Venture Capital

Greg Piefer FOUNDER AND CEO

SHINE TECHNOLOGIES | JANESVILLE

GREG PIEFER leads Janesville-based SHINE Technologies, a nuclear fusion technology and radioisotope production company he founded in 2005 as a Ph.D. student in UW-Madison’s nuclear engineering program. SHINE is in the process of scaling up and commercializing near-term applications for its fusion technology, which is used in the industrial, defense and health care markets.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and doctorate, UW-Madison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “This was a big year for us. The UK’s Atomic Energy Authority chose SHINE to provide the neutron generator for their global fusion research program. That validation matters; it confirms we have the strongest fusion system available today. We also announced our plan to acquire Lantheus SPECT, which will help put critical diagnostic tools in more hospitals. The acquisition adds technetium-99m generators to our portfolio; these create the isotopes doctors use for heart scans, bone scans and other essential medical imaging. This move accelerates our medical isotope business so we can help more patients get the diagnostics and treatments they need.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “A big mistake is thinking that more money means faster results. That idea can be a flaw because it can prevent you from building efficient organizations.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Wisconsin needs more direct connectivity (especially flights) to the coasts. It makes it hard for companies in the Midwest – particularly startups – to do business with others on the East or West Coast.”

BEST AND WORST HABIT: “It’s both my best and worst habit: the willingness and ability to jump in and come up with creative solutions to problems. It’s good because it reinforces first-principles thinking but could limit our team’s ability to scale if I do this too often.”

FOUNDER AND MANAGING PARTNER

HEALTHX VENTURES | MADISON

MADISON-NATIVE Mark Bakken is the founder and managing partner of HealthX Ventures, a digital health care-focused venture capital firm with a portfolio of 36 companies valued at over $4.3 billion. A serial entrepreneur turned investor, he previously founded and sold three businesses, including Nordic Consulting, which grew to $130 million in five years. Recognized for his contributions to Wisconsin’s startup community, Bakken was inducted into the Wisconsin Technology Council’s Investor Hall of Fame and supports numerous local entrepreneurial initiatives, including the Black Business Hub, Center for Black Excellence and Culture, Madison College South Campus Entrepreneur Center and Madison Chamber of Commerce.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Hopefully with more oversight and less hands-on involvement. The goal is to continue empowering the team to take on more responsibility – and to do it even better than I would have done it myself.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “They hang on to the wrong employees for too long. That’s a tough one, but it’s true. Another common mistake is losing sight of the customer. At the end of the day, if you don’t have customers, you don’t have a business.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Make it the land of 10,000 startups. We need more startup activity and venture investing to keep great founders and ideas growing right here in Wisconsin.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Culver’s Double Cheeseburger Basket with a Concrete Mixer. And, of course, spending time on the lake.”

MANAGER, TECHSPARK WISCONSIN MICROSOFT | GREEN BAY

MICHELLE SCHULER is a senior leader at Microsoft responsible for steering the company’s community engagement as it executes on a pledged $3.3 billion commitment to Wisconsin. Schuler launched and directed the Microsoft TechSpark Fellows national program, which has supported over 34,000 individuals in 46 communities. Schuler also co-founded Women in Technology Wisconsin Inc., an organization of female leaders focused on attracting, growing and retaining girls and women in technology careers. She led the organization as president until 2023. She also previously served as co-chair of New North Inc., the regional economic development organization in northeast Wisconsin.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Whitewater

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “Kathi Seifert, former executive VP at Kimberly-Clark. She taught me the value of listening to others’ advice since they often see strengths in you before you do. This has made me more open to feedback and trusting of others’ insights.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “To succeed as a business leader today, one must be visionary and collaborative, empowering others and fostering partnerships that deliver meaningful impact.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “My role will increasingly focus on expanding emerging technology skills, fostering collaboration across sectors and deepening engagement with community partners. As technology evolves, I’ll adapt strategies to support economic growth by empowering local people, organizations and communities.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATION: “‘The Let Them Theory,’ a book that inspires self-reflection and the practice of empowering others by letting go and trusting in their choices.”

Michelle Schuler

Mark Bakken

PARTNER AND CO-FOUNDER

ROCK RIVER CAPITAL PARTNERS | MADISON

CHRISTOPHER ECKSTROM is a co-founder and partner of Rock River Capital Partners, a Madison-based venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments in Midwestern startups. The firm has 13 startups in its portfolio. Eckstrom previously ran the Chicago Principal Investment team of Macquarie Bank, which deployed more than $2 billion of capital into special situation debt and equity investments in the U.S. and Canada. Eckstrom was also previously a senior analyst at Black Diamond Capital Management in Lake Forest, Illinois.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

GENERAL PARTNER IDEA FUND OF LA CROSSE | LA CROSSE

JONATHON HORNE is a co-founder and general partner of the Idea Fund of La Crosse, a seed-stage venture capital firm that invests in pre-revenue and earlystage revenue startups. The Idea Fund currently has $45 million under management across two funds and has invested in 24 portfolio companies. Its focus is technology startups based in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. Horne previously worked in investment banking for JPMorgan Chase at its New York headquarters, where he focused on mergers and acquisitions advisory, capital raising and strategic advice to boards and C-suites in the industrials and business services sectors.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Lawrence University; MBA and J.D., UW-Madison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Our most important success this year was the exit of Part Analytics, a Brookfield-based software company providing supply chain solutions. The founders, former GE HealthCare supply chain engineers, experienced firsthand a problem costing their division tens of millions of dollars annually and ultimately driving up the cost of medical imaging for patients. They quit their jobs to build the solution themselves, and Idea Fund invested $500,000 before the company had a single dollar of revenue. Part Analytics was acquired this year by a major Japanese electronics conglomerate, returning tens of millions of dollars to Wisconsin founders, employees and investors.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Fear of failure. What I love about startups is that you don’t need permission from anyone. The only judgment that matters is from your customers, whether you deliver real value. Building a business is hard and, yes, there are external factors that can intervene. But over time, persistent value creation wins. If you stay focused on solving meaningful problems for customers, there’s no ceiling on how far your business or your career can grow.”

Ken Johnson

PARTNER, BADGER FUND OF FUNDS

MANAGING DIRECTOR, KEGONSA CAPITAL PARTNERS LLC | MADISON

KEN JOHNSON is a veteran of the venture capital industry, serving as partner of the Badger Fund of Funds and managing director of Kegonsa Capital Partners. Johnson was an entrepreneur from 1997 to 2004 and founded seven startups, two of which were acquired for $8 million and $57 million, and one that went public for $80 million. He founded KCP in 2004. In 2011, the firm partnered with Sun Mountain Capital to form Sun Mountain Kegonsa, which was selected to manage the Badger Fund of Funds. The Badger Fund is the lead investor in five Wisconsin-based VC funds managed by first-time managers. The Badger Fund funds include the $13 million Idea Fund of La Crosse, $11 million Winnebago Seed Fund, $10.2 million Winnow Fund, $13.5 million Gateway Capital Fund and $26.5 million Rock River Capital Partners.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Wisconsin-Madison; MBA, Illinois Institute of Technology

MANAGING PARTNER

GATEWAY CAPITAL | MILWAUKEE

DANA GUTHRIE is managing partner of Gateway Capital, a Milwaukee-based fund that invests in startups that are not yet generating revenue. Guthrie managed to raise $13.5 million in eight months for Gateway; today the firm has 13 startups in its portfolio.

Prior to her current role, Guthrie founded and managed Alchemy Angel Investors, an angel investment network focused on early-stage startups. She founded Alchemy while being employed full time at Johnson Controls, where she managed a multimillion-dollar global product offering. Guthrie is a two-time patent recipient.

Raised in St. Louis, she relocated to Wisconsin when she attended the Milwaukee School of Engineering, where she studied computer engineering. She went on to receive her master’s in energy engineering from the University of Illinois Chicago. She serves on the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce board, the Milwaukee Public Library Foundation board and the Milwaukee County Ethics Board. This year, she served as co-chair of Hoancoming, an end-of-summer celebration put on by the Hoan Group.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Milwaukee School of Engineering; master’s, University of Illinois Chicago

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “‘Essentialism,’ ‘The 6 Types of Working Genius,’ ‘The Alchemist’ and ‘The Color of Money: Black Banks & The Racial Wealth Gap.’”

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “The evolution and business growth of our portfolio companies.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Playing with my son.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “reMarkable notebook.”

John Neis

MANAGING DIRECTOR VENTURE INVESTORS | MADISON

JOHN NEIS was an entrepreneur several times over by the time he joined Venture Investors as a graduate student in the late 1980s. He started his first business as a college student selling frames for waterbeds, a venture he parlayed into owning retail stores and wholesaling furniture to retailers. While working toward a master’s at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Business, he joined the thennew Venture Investors and has remained with the firm since. With $200 million in assets under management, the venture capital firm provides seed, early-stage and growth capital for companies in the therapeutic, diagnostic, medical devices and digital health sectors. Neis serves on several industry boards, including the Wisconsin Technology Council, Morgridge Institute for Research and the National Venture Capital Association.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Utah; master’s, UW-Madison

Dana Guthrie

Jonathon Horne

Christopher Eckstrom

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, UW-Madison

Carrie Thome INVESTMENT ADVISOR

NVNG INVESTMENT ADVISORS LLC | MADISON

APPLETON-NATIVE Carrie Thome is a founding partner and investment advisor with NVNG Investment Advisors LLC, a Madison-based firm that works with its members to offer exposure to venture capital firms. She helped launch NVNG’s inaugural fund in 2021 with more than $50 million of committed capital. Thome was previously chief investment officer for the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation, where she oversaw the management of a $3 billion investment portfolio.

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “(The biggest obstacles to) career growth in our industry, as relates to being located in Wisconsin and the Midwest, is the size of the industry. The venture capital industry here is beginning to emerge but firms are small, limiting the number of positions available at any entity. Fundraising is difficult and without assets under management, firms cannot grow and hire talent.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Over the next one to two years we seek to increase the amount of funds and assets under management in the NVNG portfolio. The job will evolve to reflect the continuing maturity of our firm as we progress from essentially being a startup to an established firm. As we build these funds, we will be building out the talent within our firm and my job will evolve to include the dissemination of the culture my partner, Grady (Buchanan), and I seek to infuse in our organization.”

BEST AND WORST HABIT: “Worst habit is staying up way too late, because morning comes fast. Best habit is connecting with my mom each morning to make sure she is doing okay.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Up North, at the lake, by a campfire.”

JOHN ZERATSKY is a co-founder and general partner at Character Capital, a venture capital firm that supports technology startups. While a design partner at Google Ventures, he co-created the Design Sprint process and worked with companies including Slack, One Medical and Blue Bottle Coffee. Zeratsky has authored multiple books, including “Sprint,” “Make Time” and “Click.” Previously, he was a design leader for YouTube, Google Ads and FeedBurner. A graduate of the UW-Madison School of Human Ecology, he now serves as an advisor to the dean and faculty.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

or email

John Zeratsky

ENERGY & TRANSPORTATION

Energy & Utilities

38 Barton, Lisa

Kelsey, Peggy

Lauber, Scott

Mogensen, Teresa 40 Strand, Summer

Transportation & Logistics 40 DeLong, Christopher

Dranzik, Brian

Kessenich, Eric

Kriete, David

Rourke, Mark 41 Weber, Abe

Energy & Utilities, Transportation & Logistics

Lisa Barton PRESIDENT

AND CEO

ALLIANT ENERGY CORP. | MADISON

LISA BARTON leads Alliant Energy Corp. and its utility subsidiaries, Interstate Power and Light and Wisconsin Power and Light. Alliant Energy provides service to about 1 million electric and approximately 425,000 natural gas retail customers in the Midwest. With more than 30 years in the energy industry, Barton oversees company operations in Iowa and Wisconsin and guides its strategy, regulatory and customer initiatives. Prior to joining Alliant, Barton was chief operating officer for Columbus, Ohiobased American Electric Power. She has held leadership roles with several industry organizations including Wires, ReliabilityFirst, GridWise Alliance and the Electric Power Research Institute. She serves on the board of the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Worcester Polytechnic Institute; J.D., Suffolk University Law School

PRESIDENT AND CEO

WEC ENERGY GROUP | MILWAUKEE

Peggy Kelsey

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, GENERAL COUNSEL AND CORPORATE SECRETARY WEC ENERGY GROUP | MILWAUKEE

SCOTT LAUBER is president and chief executive officer of WEC Energy Group and a member of its board of directors. Since joining the company in 1990, he has held leadership roles across finance, operations and corporate strategy, including chief operating officer and chief financial officer. He serves on the boards of American Transmission Co. and the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Whitewater

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “We continued to make good progress on our ‘all of the above’ power generation approach, focusing on customer reliability. As we added solar, batteries and natural gas generation, we were able to retire older, less efficient fossil generation units. Also, this year we received approval to build new power plants and fuel storage facilities to support economic growth and reliability at times of peak demand and extreme weather. To help chart our path forward, we continue to invest in research, technology and system improvement.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “You have to stick to the fundamentals of your business. For me that is customer focus and follow though, listening to employees and customers, with a drive for success and all this with the highest integrity.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “On the weekends I get outside and do something physical in the yard, the garden or around the farm to get the mind thinking differently.”

MOST REWATCHED MOVIE: “Every Christmas I watch ‘It’s a Wonderful Life.’ It’s a holiday classic with a timeless message.”

MARGARET “PEGGY” KELSEY is responsible for all legal matters affecting WEC Energy Group. The Milwaukee-based energy company has 7,000 employees and serves nearly 4.7 million customers across Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota. Before joining WEC Energy Group, she served as general counsel at Modine Manufacturing Co. and was a partner at Quarles & Brady LLP. She serves on several community boards, including Teach for America — Milwaukee, Greater Milwaukee Foundation and the Zoological Society of Milwaukee.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Mount Mary University; J.D., Georgetown University; MBA, UW-Milwaukee

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “As an avid traveler, I would love to be a travel writer for a month. I love learning about different countries and cultures — everything from what people eat to how they live their day-to-day lives. I also love to write. Seems like a perfect combination!”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Seizing transformational opportunities quickly is essential to thrive in today’s fast-paced business environment. For a variety of reasons, some leaders wait too long to give direction and/or fail to communicate clearly, consistently and frequently about the need for change.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “I love my Kindle. I read every night and as soon as I finish one book, I can download and start a new one within 30 seconds.”

MOST REWATCHED MOVIE: “I love to rewatch the classic ‘Young Frankenstein’ or even pull up short scenes from that movie when I need a laugh. And I enjoy ‘Bottle Shock,’ a movie based on the 1976 wine competition known as the ‘Judgement of Paris’ when California wine defeated French wine in a blind taste test.”

Scott Lauber

Congratulations!

We are proud to congratulate Scott Lauber and Peggy Kelsey on being named to Wisconsin 275 — BizTimes Media’s list of most influential business leaders. Your efforts to build a bright, sustainable future are seen and felt across the region.

Thank you for the outstanding leadership you bring in guiding WEC Energy Group’s pursuit of excellence.

Teresa Mogensen

CHAIR, PRESIDENT AND CEO

ATC | PEWAUKEE

TERESA MOGENSEN is chair of the board of directors, president and chief executive officer at ATC. Previously she was senior vice president, energy supply at Xcel Energy, and prior to that, spent seven years with ATC, holding various leadership positions during its formation as the country’s first for-profit, transmission-only utility. With extensive community and industry board experience, she currently serves on the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Edison Electric Institute boards.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and MBA, Marquette University

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “We are a very STEM-heavy company. Our industry is in a time of tremendous growth and change. One challenge is finding people with a strong technical background who also have a passion for public service. As a critical infrastructure provider in the community, we employ people who can balance multiple competing factors and make good decisions for the long term. Once people are in our industry, there are many paths for future growth.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “I’d shine a brighter light on Wisconsin, highlighting its beauty, its opportunities and its people. Wisconsin has a low profile, but our state is such a special place.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “‘Do things just like this.’ I will learn from what you’re saying and integrate that into the situation, but I don’t like absolutes. Usually, the right answer is somewhere between ‘you must do this’ and ‘never do this.’”

MOST REWATCHED MOVIE: “‘Elf.’ It’s just silly and funny. It’s the perfect holiday movie.”

CHAIRPERSON

PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION OF WISCONSIN | MADISON

SUMMER STRAND serves as chairperson of the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, the independent state regulatory agency that oversees public utilities. Strand was appointed commissioner by Gov. Tony Evers in 2023 and became chair in 2024. She is president of the Mid-America Regulatory Conference and participates in several national regulatory and utility organizations. Previously, Strand was director of government affairs for the Walbec Group and was administrator of the Division of Facilities Development at the Wisconsin Department of Administration. She began her career working for the Wisconsin State Senate.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; J.D., Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law

Christopher D E Long

PRESIDENT

THE DELONG CO. INC. | CLINTON

CHRISTOPHER DELONG is president of The DeLong Co. Inc., a Clinton-based agricultural and logistics company that has been in his family for six generations. A U.S. exporter of containerized agricultural products, the company significantly expanded its capabilities in 2023 when it opened a $40 million bulk agricultural export terminal at Port Milwaukee, allowing for more efficient handling and shipping of products and access to new international markets. The facility was estimated to generate $63 million in statewide economic impact annually. The company has continued to be in growth mode over the past year, having completed a rebuild of its Clinton grain facility, expanded its agronomy facility in Avalon, expanded its Milwaukee export facility and begun development of a containerized export facility in Portsmouth, Virginia. The company employs about 450 people. Outside his role with The DeLong Co., DeLong serves on the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protection Organic advisory board.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Milwaukee; MBA, UW-Whitewater; doctorate, Sacred Heart University

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “Lead with stories, not just policies. Pair them with the right people. Set clear expectations early. Give them a voice immediately. Model it personally.”

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Advanced numerous management team-driven projects currently in progress. Recognized as one of the Best Places to Work. Continued to enhance, refine and encourage participation in our robust safety program.”

Brian Dranzik

AIRPORT DIRECTOR

MILWAUKEE COUNTY | MILWAUKEE

BRIAN DRANZIK is the airport director for Milwaukee County, where he oversees and directs operations of Milwaukee County’s two airports, Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport and Timmerman Airport. Under his leadership, Mitchell International has worked to update its brand, improve customer amenities and increase its customer satisfaction scores, particularly through the renovation of its retail and food and beverage concessions. In 2025, the airport began construction for two significant projects: a new 337,000-square-foot air cargo facility and a $95 million project to replace its International Arrivals Terminal. Dranzik was previously the director of transportation for Milwaukee County.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, UW-Milwaukee COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Kicking off the cargo renovation project converting the former MKE Regional Business Park to a cargo facility that can handle international and domestic cargo.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Vision, valuing feedback, adaptability.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “Talk to other employees and hear what their experiences have been.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “I am not a big fan of winter weather, so if I could make the winter weather easier to tolerate that would make me happy.”

Eric Kessenich CEO

U.S. VENTURE | KIMBERLY

ERIC KESSENICH is the third-generation family leader of U.S. Venture, a supplier of fuel, lubricants, tires and auto parts. Kessenich was named chief executive officer in 2024, after serving as chief operating officer and oversaw all of the company’s divisions. He began his career at U.S. Venture as a trader in its oil division and was later promoted to president of the division in 2017. The company is in the process of renovating the 222 Building – downtown Appleton’s tallest building – to serve as its new corporate headquarters.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; MBA, Northwestern University – Kellogg School of Management

Summer Strand

David Kriete PRESIDENT AND CEO KRIETE TRUCK CENTERS

| MILWAUKEE

A. DAVID KRIETE is president and chief executive officer of Kriete Truck Centers. Under his leadership, the company has grown from around 215 employees to more than 500, with Kriete Truck Center locations now in Fond du Lac, Green Bay, La Crosse, Madison, Mauston, Milwaukee, Racine, Sheboygan, Stevens Point and Tomahawk. Kriete joined the family business, founded by his grandfather, in 2006 after working as a commercial lender for M&I Bank.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Xavier University; MBA, Marquette University

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Successful business leaders simply need to be engaged! Genuinely wanting to be involved with associates and learn what makes each of them tick, with customers and understand what drives their success, with business partners and attempt to do good for them even when it doesn’t drive the bottom line, and with community partners to provide heart, soul and resources to all those who need it.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My mom. I learned poise over aggression, grace over being right and the gift of trying to learn what matters to others in lieu of asserting my own thoughts and opinions upon others.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “If you want to spark your spirit while taking in a gorgeous part of Wisconsin, visit the Jesuit Retreat House in Oshkosh. It’s a weekend retreat that will revive, renew and refresh your soul! Trust me.”

MOST REWATCHED MOVIE: “‘The Lord of the Rings.’”

Mark Rourke

PRESIDENT AND CEO

SCHNEIDER NATIONAL | ASHWAUBENON

MARK ROURKE leads Schneider National, a provider of transportation, intermodal and logistics services. Rourke joined Schneider in 1987 as a service team leader in Seville, Ohio, and worked his way up to executive vice president and chief operating officer before being named president and CEO in 2019. The company has about 19,400 employees worldwide and $5.3 billion in annual revenue. Under his leadership, the company has grown through multiple acquisitions in recent years. Rourke serves on the board of directors for the Green Bay Packers and the Trucking Alliance.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Akron

Abe Weber

DIRECTOR

APPLETON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT | APPLETON

ABE WEBER is the director of Appleton International Airport, Wisconsin’s third-busiest commercial service airport. Appleton International serves northeastern Wisconsin, with nonstop service to 23 destinations. The airport has grown under Weber’s leadership. In 2024, inbound and outbound travelers reached one million in a single calendar year, the first time the airport hit that milestone. The airport is also nearing completion on a $66 million, 47,000-squarefoot expansion of its main concourse that will more than double the airport’s size. The project has added new gates, expanded boarding areas and improved infrastructure to accommodate larger aircraft.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale; master’s, UW-Green Bay

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HEALTH CARE

Health care

44 Anderson, Sue

44 Andrabi, Dr. Imran

44 Finley-Hazle, Gabrielle

45 Heywood, Matt

45 Hoerneman, Dr. Brian

45 Jackson, Daniel

46 Kaplan, Dr. Alan

46 Lord, Mara

46 Miskel, Chris

46 Peri, Gil

47 Rathgaber, Dr. Scott

47 Raymond Sr., Dr. John

Health care

Sue Anderson

REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WISCONSIN

SSM HEALTH | MADISON

SUE ANDERSON is regional president of St. Louis-based SSM Health’s Wisconsin operations, with oversight of seven hospitals, 65 clinics and more than 10,000 employees and 1,800 providers. Anderson previously held leadership roles at Virginia Mason Health System and Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle. She has chaired the national board of Medical Examiners and the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Notre Dame; MBA, Vanderbilt University

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “I love my sous vide machine! My husband and I are amateur foodies, and we love to cook. Our steaks and pork tenderloins always come out perfectly and it’s so easy to use, and the timing of when things are ready is no longer an issue.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “The farmers’ markets here are incredible. I’m a transplant from Seattle and always thought we had great produce. The produce in Wisconsin cannot be beat. And, of course, the weekly farmers’ market on the Capitol Square in Madison is truly an experience not to be missed.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “First, you must be flexible, creative and willing to learn. Health care, like many industries, is changing rapidly, and that is only going to increase. Be open to change and continuous improvement. Second, it is important to be kind and empathetic to your employees. There is too much divisiveness in our culture today and being open to everyone and the great ideas that they bring to your company will only make it better.”

Dr. Imran Andrabi

PRESIDENT AND CEO

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “I would make winter only one month – over the holidays. I would also get rid of mosquitoes. Other than that, Wisconsin is great!”

FROEDTERT THEDACARE HEALTH INC. | WAUWATOSA

DR. IMRAN ANDRABI leads Froedtert ThedaCare, overseeing the integration of the two health systems since their merger in 2024. Wauwatosa-based Froedtert ThedaCare has more than 22,000 employees, 3,400 providers, 18 hospitals and more than 360 outpatient locations. Prior to the merger, Andrabi led ThedaCare as president and CEO, during which the Neenah-based organization completed a $100 million project to modernize its legacy hospital. Andrabi also previously led Mercy Health in Toledo, Ohio, as president and CEO.

EDUCATION: M.D., King Edward Medical College in Pakistan; pre-medicine studies, F.G. Sir Syed College

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Traveling, singing and listening to music. I love to think and contemplate whenever I have the opportunity as well.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Someone who is willing to be curious, humble, vulnerable, be comfortable with ambiguity, be comfortable with change. Someone who is adaptive and agile. Someone who has a growth mindset rather than a fixed mindset.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “I talk to people. I think out loud with them. Listen to what they have to say and/or contribute and usually, we collectively get to better answers.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “I wouldn’t change anything about Wisconsin. I am so glad that I came here eight years ago. The best move ever. I wish more people would know about this great state and the wonderful people of Wisconsin along with everything it has to offer.”

Gabrielle Finley-Hazle

PRESIDENT

AURORA HEALTH CARE | MILWAUKEE

GABRIELLE FINLEY-HAZLE is president of Aurora Health Care, where she leads the growth, development and strategic direction of the Wisconsin market. Aurora is the largest private employer in Wisconsin, with 43,000 employees. The health system includes 300 sites of care, including 18 hospitals and more than 70 pharmacies. Finley-Hazle has more than 25 years of industry experience, having held senior executive positions in investor-owned, nonprofit and faith-based health care systems. She is a board member for the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, Milwaukee World Festival Inc. and the United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, Cornell University

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “I believe the most successful leaders are ‘constructively dissatisfied’ with the status quo and embody a blend of empathy, resilience and adaptability with a strong focus on people and culture.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “‘Start with Why,’ ‘The Twin Thieves,’ ‘The AI-Driven Leader.’”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “There is so much to love about Wisconsin. The food, the sports, the seasons and the people are just fantastic. And I am so proud of our Milwaukee Brewers. The Brewers had such an amazing season, and my daughter and I love going to the Brewers games. … I also love our local farms. And, of course, my family loves the Wisconsin Dells like most Wisconsinites.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “I wouldn’t call myself the chef in the family, mostly because I don’t have time to cook as much as I might like to, but one dish I always look forward to is kielbasa and rice – especially when my mom makes it.”

Matt Heywood PRESIDENT AND CEO

ASPIRUS HEALTH | WAUSAU

MATT HEYWOOD leads Aspirus Health, a Wausau-based health system with 14,000 employees, 18 hospitals and 130 outpatient locations across Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Under his leadership in 2021, Aspirus integrated seven former Ascension hospitals and 21 former Ascension clinics into its system. Heywood has nearly 30 years of business and health care leadership experience. Before joining Aspirus, he was executive vice president and chief operating officer of New Hanover Health Network in Wilmington, North Carolina. He serves on the boards of the Wisconsin Hospital Association, YMCA Foundation, Northcentral Technical College Foundation and Greater Wausau Prosperity Partnership.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Dartmouth College; MBA, University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business

Dr. Brian Hoerneman

REGIONAL PRESIDENT AND CEO

SANFORD HEALTH | MARSHFIELD

EMERGENCY MEDICINE specialist Dr. Brian Hoerneman has led the Marshfield Clinic region of Sanford Health since early 2025, when the former Marshfield Clinic Health System and Sioux Falls, South Dakota-based Sanford merged. Prior to the merger, Hoerneman served as interim chief executive officer of Marshfield Clinic, following the departure of the system’s former CEO. The combined Sanford system has 56,000 employees and 56 hospitals, 11 of which are in the Marshfield Clinic region.

EDUCATION: M.D., University of Wisconsin School of Medicine & Public Health

Daniel Jackson CEO

ASCENSION WISCONSIN | GLENDALE

DANIEL JACKSON is the head of Ascension’s Wisconsin market, with oversight of 16 hospitals, more than 100 health care facilities, 10,000 employees and 1,100 clinicians. Before joining Ascension in 2023 as interim president of Ascension Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital –Milwaukee Campus, Jackson was CEO of Detroit Medical Center’s Sinai-Grace Hospital and held senior leadership roles with Wellstar Health System and other hospitals. He currently serves as 2026 Heart of Milwaukee campaign chair for the American Heart Association.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Morehouse College; master’s, Meharry Medical College

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Three of our hospitals – Ascension St. Joseph Hospital, Ascension St. Elizabeth Hospital and Ascension Elmbrook Hospital – each earned ‘A’ grades for exceptional safety and quality from the Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit organization focused on advancing patient safety. Additionally, Ascension St. Joseph Hospital, Ascension All Saints Hospital and Ascension St. Elizabeth Hospital each earned ‘Best Maternity Hospital’ recognition from Newsweek.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “I think three key attributes of a successful business leader are adaptability, fortitude and integrity. It’s important to know when to pivot but equally important to stay the course when you know it’s the right thing to do, even if it’s not clear to others.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My parents have been major influencers, impressing on me the importance of taking a practical approach to life.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “I’m most comfortable on the grill and smoker and can make a mean beef brisket.”

Working together to create a healthier Wisconsin

Froedtert ThedaCare is the largest health system based in Wisconsin, serving almost half of the state’s population. Our Mission is to advance the health of our communities through excellence and discovery, inspiring each person to live their unique, best life.

Our team brings together the skills, knowledge and expertise to transform communities — urban, rural and suburban — through excellence in primary and specialty care. Our partnership with the Medical College of Wisconsin provides the academic medicine foundation to discover tomorrow’s breakthroughs.

Patient care is at the heart of our 19 hospitals and more than 360 outpatient locations. Each Froedtert & MCW and ThedaCare site connects people to the right care, at the right time and place — while keeping them close to home.

We are proud that BizTimes has honored Imran Andrabi, MD, president and CEO of Froedtert ThedaCare, for inclusion among Wisconsin’s Top 275 Most Influential Business Leaders. Congratulations to all the honorees.

Dr. Alan Kaplan CEO

UW HEALTH | MADISON

CHICAGO-NATIVE

Dr. Alan Kaplan is chief executive officer of UW Health, a multi-state academic health system affiliated with the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. The system includes six hospitals in Wisconsin and Illinois, more than 1,800 faculty physicians and 25,500 total employees who serve 830,000 patients annually. Kaplan is credited with leading major system integrations, expanded partnerships and strengthened financial and operational performance. Previously, he held senior executive roles at UnityPoint Health and Edward Hospital.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; M.D., Rush Medical College; master’s, Carnegie Mellon University

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Whenever I think the job could not get more challenging, I am proved to be wrong. When I started in health care the focus was mainly on quality and safety. Today that still remains true, but the political and financial environment has intensified. As the CEO, much of my attention today is focused on financial sustainability and providing adequate access to care. I expect this to further intensify over the next one to two years.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “Any strong opinion not open to discussion and not supported by science, data or thoughtful observation.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “I am an avid hobbyist farmer. I enjoy forestry work, tending to my fruit orchard, planting small fields, and prairie and wetland restoration. I co-own a portable sawmill and enjoy harvesting fallen hardwood trees for usable lumber.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Exploring the Driftless Area, whether it is driving, hiking, biking or stream fishing.”

Chris Miskel

PRESIDENT AND CEO

VERSITI | MILWAUKEE

CHRIS MISKEL became president and chief executive officer of Versiti in 2017, following more than 20 years in health care leadership. With Miskel at the helm, the Milwaukee-based blood health organization has expanded operations to its fifth state, grown to 2,700 employees and reports annual revenues exceeding $475 million. In 2024, the Versiti Blood Research Institute broke ground on a 79,000-squarefoot expansion of its Wauwatosa campus at the Milwaukee Regional Medical Center. Miskel previously held leadership roles at Shire, Baxalta, Baxter International and Eli Lilly and Co. Miskel serves on the Butler University board of trustees and the boards of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. and the Medical College of Wisconsin.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Butler University; MBA, Harvard Business School

Gil Peri

PRESIDENT AND CEO

CHILDREN’S WISCONSIN | WAUWATOSA

GIL PERI is president and chief executive officer of Children’s Wisconsin, the only nonprofit, independent children’s hospital in the state. With more than 25 years of experience in pediatric health care operations, he has held leadership roles at Riley Children’s Health, Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, Children’s Hospital Colorado and Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He has served as board chair for the Child Health Development Institute/Children’s Fund of Connecticut, co-chair for the Children’s Hospital Association COVID-19 Operations Task Force and as a finance committee member for the Children’s Hospital Association.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, master’s and MBA, University of South Florida

Mara Lord

CHIEF STRATEGY AND GROWTH OFFICER MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN | WAUWATOSA

AS CHIEF STRATEGY and growth officer for the Medical College of Wisconsin, Mara Lord, Ph.D., has led the planning and implementation of two regional medical school campuses, a joint biomedical engineering program with Marquette University, a $400 million philanthropic campaign, MCW’s first strategic plan and joint strategic plan with Froedtert Health, among other initiatives. She also holds a faculty position in the Institute for Health and Equity as assistant professor of epidemiology and global engagement. She has a diverse professional background that includes time as a television producer, music festival leader, art gallery and restaurant manager in Costa Rica and director of a birth center in Seattle.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Washington; MBA, UWM Lubar School of Business; doctorate, Medical College of Wisconsin

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Health care and university administration both offer interesting career growth opportunities for creative leaders. One of the challenges can be burnout since these leadership roles are multi-faceted and very demanding.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “The biohealth/biotech industry is leaping ahead in Wisconsin. Recent data shows that we are significantly outpacing national growth in this sector in jobs and revenue. I am excited to help catalyze this momentum and focus on business development opportunities that expand the incredible biohealth research and biotech products coming out of the Medical College of Wisconsin.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “There are so many incredible leaders who have been thought partners and mentors. One memorable takeaway is to lead with influence rather than authority. I try to live by that daily.”

MOST REWATCHED MOVIE: “’The Greatest Showman.’”

Dr. Scott Rathgaber CEO

EMPLIFY HEALTH | LA CROSSE

DR. SCOTT RATHGABER is chief executive officer of Emplify Health, the organization formed by the merger of Gundersen Health System and Bellin Health. A gastroenterologist, Rathgaber served as CEO of Gundersen from 2015 to 2022. He has led the combined health system since its merger with Bellin in late 2022. Emplify includes 11 hospitals and over 100 clinics across four states.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Wabash College; M.D., Indiana University School of Medicine, master’s, Viterbo University

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “Tom Thibodeau has taught me to view those I serve in leadership as the ends not the means.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I would trade jobs with Christian Ricker. He is a chaplain at Emplify Health. He is a remarkable person who is constantly in situations at the intersection of life, spirit and care in our system. In his position, he experiences the full range of joys and tragedies in our system while working closely with our amazing staff. This is a perspective difficult for me to experience in my role. I would love to have that personal and unimpeded witness for our people operating as a team to deliver our mission at the point of connection to the people we serve.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “When I was selected as CEO, peers encouraged me to distance myself from my predecessors. I would have missed a rich opportunity to learn and grow had I done so.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Cheese curds, with ranch dip.”

PRESIDENT AND CEO

MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN | WAUWATOSA

DR. JOHN R. RAYMOND SR. leads the Medical College of Wisconsin, overseeing Wisconsin’s only private medical school and the fifth-largest private employer in metro Milwaukee, with an annual operating budget of approximately $1.6 billion and a workforce of about 7,000 faculty and staff. MCW ranks among the top 100 research universities nationally and invests nearly $348 million annually in research and education.

Under his leadership, MCW expanded its statewide footprint with regional campuses in Green Bay and central Wisconsin and launched a school of pharmacy. He has also guided institutional partnerships such as the ThriveOn Collaboration with the Greater Milwaukee Foundation and Royal Capital Group and the development of the Milwaukee Regional Medical Center’s new forensic science facility in partnership with local and state government.

A practicing nephrologist and medical researcher, Raymond has published more than 140 peer-reviewed manuscripts and earned about $40 million in research funding during his career. He remains active in teaching, clinical care and faculty mentorship. He played a key role in the state’s COVID-19 response, providing daily virtual briefings to keep area business executives informed of the virus’ spread.

He serves on several academic and community boards. He is chair of the Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities and serves on the boards of United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County, Children’s Wisconsin, the Milwaukee Academy of Science, Versiti Blood Research Institute Foundation and Gulf Medical University.

Raymond will step down from his role as president and CEO of the Medical College of Wisconsin in mid-2026.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and M.D., The Ohio State University

Celebrating a proven leader

We’re proud to join BizTimes Media in congratulating Dustin Hinton on being named one of the Wisconsin 275 most influential executives. Your leadership continues to make a meaningful impact in our community. Thank you for all you do to make the health system work better for everyone.

Dustin Hinton President and CEO

UnitedHealthcare of Wisconsin and Michigan Employer & Individual

Dr. John Raymond Sr.

IMAGINE WHAT 275 LEADERS CAN DO

TOGETHER FOR WISCONSIN

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Pledge your 2026 Takeover today versiti.org/donorcentertakeover

Prefer a conversation? Email: partnerships@versiti.org

CHRIS MISKEL CEO, Versiti | 275 Honoree

HOSPITALITY, ENTERTAINMENT & TOURISM

entertainment

50 Bauman, Chad

50 Black, Shari

50 Brooks, Marty

50 Karmazin, Craig

51 Marcus, Greg

51 Ortiz, Dominic

52 Pancheri, Sarah

52 Plant, Joel

52 Sauers, Tim

52 Van Laanen, Maria

53 Witt, Gary

Restaurants

53 Bartolotta, Paul

53 Fussner, Julie

54 Specht, Christine

Sports

54 Feigin, Peter

54 Keiser Jr., Michael

54 Policy, Ed

55 Schlesinger, Rick

55 Ziegler, Andy

tourism

55 Nelson, Todd

55 Ø verland, Christian

56 Sajet, Kim

56 Williams-Smith, Peggy

Chad Bauman

ELLEN & JOE CHECOTA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

MILWAUKEE REPERTORY THEATER | MILWAUKEE

MISSOURI-NATIVE Chad Bauman is the Ellen & Joe Checota Executive Director of the Milwaukee Repertory Theater. The theater company produces about 700 performances a year and generates roughly $30 million in annual economic impact. Under his leadership since 2013, the Rep has eliminated its debt, doubled its endowment, and completed an $80 million fundraising campaign to support the rebuilding of its home, the Associated Bank Theater Center, which opened in November. Bauman also serves as board president of the Milwaukee Arts Partners and a board member of Pathways High School, Imagine MKE and AFS Milwaukee.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Missouri State University; master’s, California Institute of the Arts; doctorate (in process), University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Being too risk-adverse in moments of uncertainty.”

BEST AND WORST HABIT: “Best habit: Prioritizing continual learning. Worst habit: TikTok.”

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “In August, a 1,000-year flood destroyed Milwaukee Rep’s production center causing $7 million of damage just eight weeks before the opening of our new $80 million, 150,000-square-foot Associated Bank Theater Center. Within two weeks of the flood, we demolished the damaged facility, stood up a temporary production shop, partnered with providers across North America, and relocated tens of thousands of props and pieces of equipment – all to ensure that we would not have to postpone or cancel any of our 600-plus performances in our 2025-‘26 season. Our stunning new theater complex opened on time, on budget and fully funded.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “Get a good night’s sleep.”

Shari Black CEO AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR WISCONSIN STATE FAIR PARK | WEST ALLIS

SHARI BLACK has led Wisconsin State Fair Park as executive director and chief executive officer since 2021. The nearly 200-acre fairgrounds hosts hundreds of events annually, the most prominent being the Wisconsin State Fair, which in recent years has drawn roughly 1 million attendees. A Waukesha native, Black previously led the Waukesha County Fair Association as its executive director for nearly 15 years before joining Wisconsin State Fair Park in 2016 as senior director of event services.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Carroll University

Marty Brooks PRESIDENT

WISCONSIN

AND CEO

CENTER DISTRICT | MILWAUKEE

MARTY BROOKS is president and chief executive officer of the Wisconsin Center District, which owns and operates the Baird Center, Miller High Life Theatre and UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena. During the past seven years under his leadership, downtown Milwaukee’s convention center underwent a $456 million expansion, doubling its size and driving up attendance and event bookings. Prior to joining WCD, Brooks led major venue operations in St. Louis and held senior executive roles at Madison Square Garden. He serves on the boards of the Westown Association, Visit Milwaukee and the downtown Milwaukee Business Improvement District.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Maryland

ONE MISTAKE THAT LEADERS MAKE: “Not acknowledging they made a wrong decision and not being willing to change course.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I would love to be a movie or television show producer or director. I am most challenged and professionally gratified when I can be creative and can assemble a team of people from diverse functions to deliver a compelling outcome.”

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “In the first 15 months after the expansion project, we welcomed 255 events and more than 603,000 people to the revitalized Baird Center. … For comparison, Baird Center welcomed a total of 119 events in 2023, 101 in 2022, 111 in 2019 and 119 in 2018. We bet big on Milwaukee, and in its first year, Baird Center delivered an economic impact of at least $174 million. We only see that number rising in the years to come.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “Take my golden retriever, Twyla, for a walk.”

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “From the day after the 2024 Wisconsin State Fair to opening day of the 2025 Wisconsin State Fair, we completed over $35 million in capital improvement projects. Most notably, we renovated the 115-year-old Dairy Building (formerly known as the Cream Puff Pavilion), creating a year-round event venue and a state-of-the-art bakery to improve efficiency and quality of our signature cream puff operation. North Grandstand Avenue was also widened for better traffic flow, we increased accessibility throughout the park and built new family restrooms with adult changing tables, and we improved the infrastructure of the legendary Milwaukee Mile.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “In the next few years, I will really be focusing on helping our team to find new business for year-round events.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “My assistant and I would love to open up our own floral shop that would also sell personalized gift baskets – my role would be to do all the floral arrangements.”

MOST REWATCHED MOVIE: “I gravitate toward quotable movies and historical movies. Two of my favorites are ‘Happy Gilmore’ and ‘Tombstone.’”

Craig Karmazin

FOUNDER AND CEO

GOOD KARMA BRANDS | MILWAUKEE

CRAIG KARMAZIN founded Good Karma Broadcasting in 1997 with the purchase of radio stations in Beaver Dam, Columbus and Madison. Over time, the company, now known as Good Karma Brands, evolved from a traditional broadcasting company to a sports marketing firm, with broadcast and digital assets in Milwaukee, Madison, Cleveland and West Palm Beach, Florida. Under Karmazin’s leadership, Good Karma acquired Milwaukee radio stations WTMJ and WKTI for $16 million from The E.W. Scripps Co. in 2018. Its partnership with ESPN has expanded over the years to include the ESPN Radio Network and Podcasts, the full portfolio of ESPN Digital Products, ESPN Events and eight local ESPN affiliated radio stations. The company has over 550 employees nationwide.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Emory University

Greg Marcus PRESIDENT AND CEO

THE MARCUS CORP. | MILWAUKEE

GREG MARCUS is the third-generation family leader of The Marcus Corp., a Milwaukee-based movie theater and hotel company. Marcus succeeded his father, Stephen Marcus, as president in 2008 and as CEO in 2009. A high-profile Milwaukee figure, he is actively involved in leadership roles with various local organizations and has been a speaker at both local and industry events. He serves as a director for the Greater Milwaukee Committee, Medical College of Wisconsin, Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Wisconsin Center District, among other organizations.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Indiana University; J.D., Boston University School of Law COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “In just this year alone, we kicked off the largest hotel renovation in our history at the Hilton Milwaukee. And our movie theater business had a big summer, starting with a record-breaking Memorial Day weekend! Looking forward to the next big things ahead.”

MOST REWATCHED MOVIE: “I’ve watched a lot of great movies but the one I watch again and again is ‘North by Northwest.’”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “After 5 p.m., I’m a jazz musician. You’ll find me performing weekly at the bar at Saint Kate. It’s how I kickstart my creativity.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “As one of the most historic hotels in the state, The Pfister Hotel has so much history and elegance. No other hotel in Wisconsin has welcomed as many world-class performers, hall of famers and every U.S. president since William McKinley. I love sitting in the lobby bar with the fire roaring and just soaking it all in.”

POTAWATOMI CASINO HOTEL | MILWAUKEE, CARTER

DOMINIC ORTIZ is chief executive officer of Potawatomi Casinos and Hotels, overseeing operations in Milwaukee and Carter, Wisconsin. He joined the organization in 2021 as chief executive officer and general manager of the Milwaukee hotel and casino before expanding his leadership to both locations. Ortiz’s career includes senior leadership roles across multiple gaming enterprises, including chief financial officer of Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort, assistant general manager of Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino and CFO of Prairie Band Casino & Resort. He began his career at Ernst & Young and Harrah’s Entertainment.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, University of Kansas

MOST INFLUENTIAL IN WISCONSIN

As part of their prestigious Wisconsin 275 accolade, BizTimes Media has once again recognized Potawatomi Casino Hotel’s CEO Dominic Ortiz, as one of Wisconsin’s Most Influential Business Leaders in 2025.

DOMINIC ORTIZ

CEO/GM | POTAWATOMI CASINO HOTEL

The Wisconsin 275 publication highlights the 275 most influential executives in different economic sectors throughout the state as selected by BizTimes Media editors and staff.

Dominic Ortiz

CEO

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

Sarah Pancheri PRESIDENT AND CEO MILWAUKEE WORLD FESTIVAL | MILWAUKEE

SARAH PANCHERI is president and chief executive officer of Milwaukee World Festival Inc., the nonprofit operator of Summerfest and manager of the 75-acre Henry Maier Festival Park on Milwaukee’s lakefront. Under her leadership in 2025, MWF hired over 2,400 employees and hosted 62 events which were attended by over 1 million visitors. Earlier in her career, she held development roles at Marquette University and the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee. She serves on the boards of the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design and the Historic Third Ward Association.

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “In the entertainment industry, the show must go on. New employees are supported by colleagues who promote teamwork and commitment as we get through an event season.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Adaptability, including the ability to learn new skills and embrace technology. Financial acumen, given the dynamic business environment. Passion, while more of an attribute than a skill, passionate leaders get results.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “While I have many mentors, I am particularly fortunate to work closely with Mary Ellen Stanek, a woman I deeply admire. She has encouraged me to lean into my strengths, offered invaluable guidance and inspired me to take on greater responsibilities.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I would love to lead the production of a Super Bowl halftime show.”

Tim Sauers

CO-CEO AND CHIEF ARTISTIC EXPERIENCES OFFICER OVERTURE CENTER | MADISON

TIM SAUERS is co-chief executive officer and chief artistic experiences officer at the Overture Center for the Arts, a downtown Madison performing arts center and art gallery that offers educational and artistic experiences to more than 500,000 people annually. He previously served as director of grants at the Palm Beach County Cultural Council and as program director at Urban Gateways in Chicago. Sauers is nationally involved with The Broadway League and Kennedy Center partnerships and arts presenters.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Susquehanna University; master’s, Michigan State University and Columbia College

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “The biggest obstacle to career growth in arts administration in the presenting of performing and visual arts is sustainability within organizations. Budgets are often tight, costs continue to rise, and staff are asked to do more with fewer resources. This creates limited pathways for advancement, restricted opportunities for professional development and challenges in offering competitive compensation – leading many talented administrators to leave the field.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Going to supper clubs. It’s definitely a Wisconsin cherished tradition and there are so many great ones including Ishnala, Tornado Club and Maple Tree.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Strengthening support for the arts and creative industries, ensuring that artists, performers and administrators have sustainable pathways to contribute to the state’s cultural life. Expanding public engagement with arts, government funding, building inclusive community spaces and investing in local talent would enhance not just cultural richness, but also social cohesion and economic vitality.”

YOUR GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Chicken and dumplings.”

Joel Plant CEO FRANK PRODUCTIONS INC. | MADISON

JOEL PLANT is chief executive officer of Madison-based concert venue promoter Frank Productions. The firm, which is majority owned by entertainment giant Live Nation, produces and promotes events across the country, manages Madison-based FPC Live and Nashville-based National Shows 2 and has offices and venues in five cities. Plant was previously chief of staff in the Milwaukee Police Department, an aide to former Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz and Madison’s first alcohol policy coordinator.

While working in the mayor’s office, Plant helped develop downtown Madison’s annual Freakfest celebration, which served as his introduction to Frank Productions. Plant has also worked as a research assistant for the Center for Problem-Oriented Policing, a crime analyst in the Tempe (Arizona) Police Department and a teaching assistant and adjunct professor. He also has criminal prosecution experience. FPC Live in February 2026 will open its newest venue, Landmark Credit Union Live, in downtown Milwaukee’s Deer District.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; master’s, Arizona State University; J.D., UW-Madison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Continued strategic growth, including construction of our new state-of-the-art ballroom in Deer District, opening early 2026.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “Former Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn had a lot of great advice. One of my favorites is ‘First, we gather all the facts. And then we completely overreact.’”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Genuine care for your team, continuous curiosity and ‘perpetual optimism is a force multiplier’ (credit to Colin Powell).”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “‘Radical Candor’ by Kim Scott; ‘Leaders Eat Last’ by Simon Sinek.”

Maria Van Laanen

PRESIDENT AND CEO FOX CITIES PAC | APPLETON

MARIA VAN LAANEN leads the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, a downtown Appleton performance venue that hosts about 300 events annually and generates an estimated $17.9 million in economic activity for the surrounding community each season. A native of Green Bay, Van Laanen is a member of the board of governors for The Broadway League and the board of directors for the YMCA of the Fox Cities.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Green Bay

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Nonprofit organizations are typically focused on reinvesting as many resources as possible into the mission programs. As such, staff are typically smaller than for-profit businesses. This provides tremendous opportunities to learn new skills and grow in experiences and spheres of influence. However, if your perception of career growth included ‘moving up the corporate ladder,’ you will find our organization does not fit this definition.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “I go for a walk, outside if possible, or in the quiet of Thrivent Hall feeling the energy of what we create as a community.”

BEST AND WORST HABIT: “One of my best habits is my commitment to exercising every day. Probably one of my most obvious habits I’d like to tone down is using my hands to gesture too much when talking.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “I think we recognize that this historically has been a generally homogeneous area and that has led to people experiencing the community very differently. There’s a heightened awareness and a desire to be more inclusive, and together we’re making great strides. There’s still a lot of work to be done, but I’m very encouraged by the conversations that I’m seeing take place.”

Paul Bartolotta

CHEF, OWNER, CO-FOUNDER

THE BARTOLOTTA RESTAURANTS | MILWAUKEE

CHEF PAUL BARTOLOTTA, co-founder and owner of The Bartolotta Restaurants, is a two-time James Beard Award winner and six-time nominee. A Milwaukee native and internationally trained in Italy and France, he has led acclaimed restaurants in New York, Chicago, Las Vegas and Milwaukee. Since 1993, he has led The Bartolotta Restaurants to national recognition, now operating 18 restaurants and catering facilities across southeastern Wisconsin. Paul Bartolotta assumed leadership of the restaurant group following the death of his brother and co-founder, Joe Bartolotta.

EDUCATION: Restaurant and Hotel Management program at Milwaukee Area Technical College

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Our newest venue, The Commodore - A Bartolotta Restaurant, celebrated its one-year anniversary in July this year, marking a milestone first year of business. The Commodore is our largest venture to date, including fine dining and events spaces as well as Club 1902, our recently opened private members-only club.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Spaghetti Grossi al Pomodoro is a frequent go-to dish in my house. It is classic and elegant and one of my favorites.”

DREAM CAR: “I have several – Maybach Sedan, Bentley Continental Coupé (for performance), Lamborghini Aventador (for a sports car), or a Range Rover Autobiography.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “I continue to believe that there should be more direct flights into Milwaukee, and I believe we need to have a 5-star, 5-diamond hotel to support luxury travel in our market. Milwaukee is on the cusp of being an incredibly cosmopolitan city, attracting high-caliber visitors from around the world. We have awardwinning cuisine and hospitality, beautiful convention space, and an unbeatable lakefront. We need to continue to invest in our downtown area and make it a hub for visitors and locals alike.”

Gary Witt

CEO AND CO-OWNER

PABST THEATER GROUP | MILWAUKEE

CHICAGO-NATIVE Gary Witt leads the Pabst Theater Group, a Milwaukee-based entertainment organization that books, markets and hosts more than 800 events annually across its multiple venues, including the Pabst Theater, Riverside Theater, Turner Hall Ballroom, Vivarium and The Fitzgerald. Since arriving in Milwaukee in 2002, Witt has overseen the organization’s growth, from restoring the historic Pabst Theater to operating several venues that contribute more than $250 million annually to Milwaukee’s economy, according to the company. Beginning with just Witt and chief operating officer Matt Beringer as its sole team members 23 years ago, the company has grown to about 350 employees.

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “The country as a whole is facing tremendous uncertainty in the economy. This has started to bleed into the live entertainment industry. These will be challenging times that will force us all to be better at what we do in every way. There will be no coasting.”

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Successfully inviting and hosting the National Independent Venue Association Conference in Milwaukee in June of 2025.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Addressing the brain drain and attracting and retaining more skilled talent.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “The only other job that interests me more than my current amazing job is that of husband, father and grandfather. There is no greater job than mine in Milwaukee.”

CULVER’S | PRAIRIE DU SAC

JULIE FUSSNER was named chief executive officer of Culver’s in 2025, becoming the fifth CEO and first woman to hold that role. She oversees 193 corporate employees who support a footprint of 1,012 locations across 26 states nationwide, including more than 150 in Wisconsin. Culver’s restaurants collectively employ about 45,000 people, and all but seven locations are owned by the company’s 670plus franchisees. Fussner joined Culver’s as vice president of marketing in 2017 and was named chief marketing officer in 2023. She previously led marketing initiatives at American Family Insurance, Kraft Foods Group and Oscar Meyer.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; MBA, The University of Chicago

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Successful business leaders strive to build a connection with the people they lead, invite their teams’ perspective, create space for their people to grow, set a long-term vision, clarify priorities and drive alignment.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTORS: “Rick Searer, who led Oscar Mayer and later Kraft North America, instilled in me a passion for continuous learning – never stop building your knowledge base. Jane Hilk, my VP of marketing at Oscar Mayer and later a Kraft president, taught me to trust my instincts, especially in marketing, and to have the courage to speak up. And my husband, the CEO of Johnsonville (Don Fussner), has been a constant source of inspiration – showing me how effective leadership can rally teams to achieve extraordinary goals.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATION: “I love Simon Sinek and find myself returning to his books ‘Start with Why’ and ‘Leaders Eat Last’ again and again. He takes scientifically rich theory about trust and purpose and distills the insights into actionable frameworks that have transformed how I think about leadership and collaboration. I recommend his books, his speeches and his podcast all the time.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “I’d put Wisconsin winters on a timer – three months max, then we’re done.”

Julie Fussner CEO

Valerie Hill

Christine Specht

CEO

COUSINS SUBS | MENOMONEE FALLS

CHRISTINE SPECHT leads Cousins Subs, the sandwich chain founded by her father and his cousin in 1972. Cousins Subs and its franchisees operate nearly 100 sub sandwich shops throughout Wisconsin and Indiana. Prior to becoming chief executive officer, Specht held several leadership roles at the company, including human resources manager, chief operating officer and president. Under her leadership, Cousins has undergone a rebranding initiative, added grills in its restaurants and integrated more local items into its menu. Specht chairs the board of First Federal Bank of Wisconsin and is a board member of both MRA and Serigraph.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; master’s, American University

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “The restaurant industry offers exciting opportunities, but growth can sometimes be limited in smaller markets. For those who want to build long-term careers, it may require seeking opportunities in larger markets where more restaurant corporate headquarters are located.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “I’m fortunate to have a president who dots the i’s and crosses the t’s. Even so, I sometimes like to be in the weeds. As we pursue growth in markets outside Wisconsin, I see myself taking an even more visionary approach, focusing more on the big picture while continuing to grow my role as a brand ambassador.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATION: “‘The Anxious Generation’ by Jonathan Haidt. It’s not about business, but it offers valuable insight into the effects of social media on young people.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Driving to our cabin in the Driftless Area and running on the country roads.”

Peter Feigin

PRESIDENT MILWAUKEE BUCKS, FISERV FORUM | MILWAUKEE

NEW YORK-NATIVE

Peter Feigin has been president of the Milwaukee Bucks since 2014 and president of Fiserv Forum since it opened in 2018. During his leadership the NBA franchise has experienced increases in attendance, ticket and merchandise revenue, partnership sales and TV viewership. Feigin helped spearhead the vision behind the 30acre Deer District, downtown Milwaukee’s mixeduse development anchored by Fiserv Forum and the Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Sports Science Center, where the Bucks train. The district has drawn a variety of restaurants and bars as well as larger developments such as The Trade hotel, the 550 Ultra Lofts apartment building and a new music venue, Landmark Credit Union Live, slated to open in February. Feigin serves on the boards of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Public Museum, the Milwaukee Public Schools Foundation and City Year Milwaukee. He previously held executive leadership roles at Deluxe Entertainment Services Group and Marquis Jet Partners Inc./NetJets.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Franklin & Marshall College

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Career growth in our industry can be hampered by the fast-paced nature of the business and the constant evolution of technology. Staying ahead of the curve requires continuous learning and adaptability.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “One common mistake I see among business leaders is not listening enough to their team. The best ideas often come from the ground up, and it’s essential to create an environment where everyone feels heard.”

MOVIE YOU REWATCH THE MOST: “’The Godfather.’ It’s a classic that never gets old.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “When cooking at home, my go-to dish is a hearty spaghetti bolognese with chicken parm. It’s a crowd-pleaser!”

Michael Keiser Jr. CO-OWNER

SAND VALLEY RESORT | NEKOOSA

MICHAEL KEISER JR. and his brother, Chris Keiser, operate and own Sand Valley, a golf resort located on 12,000 acres in the Central Sand Plains ecological landscape of Wisconsin. Four of the resort’s five golf courses are ranked among “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses” by Golf Digest. Sand Valley has been selected to host four USGA amateur championships from 2026 to 2034. The Keiser brother duo are also in the process of developing a new golf destination that could include up to six courses on 4,000 acres in the Denver area. Michael Keiser Jr. personally financed and led the effort to renovate a city-owned nine-hole course into The Glen Golf Park, a mixed-use outdoor recreation park in Madison, where he lives with his family.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Santa Clara University

Ed Policy

CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT AND CEO

GREEN BAY PACKERS | GREEN BAY

ED POLICY assumed the role of chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer of the Green Bay Packers in July 2025. A native of Youngstown, Ohio, Policy joined the organization in 2012 as vice president and general counsel and was promoted to chief operating officer and general counsel in 2018. He was instrumental in developing the Titletown District, the Packers’ mixed-use development adjacent to Lambeau Field. Policy previously worked for the Arena Football League for nine years, including two years as its commissioner, and later worked as a consultant for the National Football League before joining the Packers.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Notre Dame; J.D., Stanford University Law School

Rick Schlesinger

PRESIDENT - BUSINESS OPERATIONS

MILWAUKEE BREWERS | MILWAUKEE

RICK SCHLESINGER is in his 23rd season with the Milwaukee Brewers and seventh as president of business operations, overseeing finance, human resources, legal, sponsorships, marketing, ticketing, broadcasting, communications, stadium operations and more. Under his leadership, the Brewers have set records in attendance and partnership development. He played a key role in securing a new long-term lease for the team at American Family Field. Schlesinger previously held leadership roles with the Anaheim Angels and Walt Disney Pictures.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; J.D., Harvard Law School

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Not trusting their people. You hire talented individuals for a reason; let them be experts in their field. Micromanaging or second-guessing every decision stifles innovation. The best leaders empower their teams and welcome new perspectives.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “I have been fortunate to learn from several great leaders, but one that stands out is (former Major League Baseball) Commissioner (Bud) Selig. His ability to navigate complex situations with integrity and vision is unmatched. One thing I learned from him: always keep the long game in mind.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “‘Do not take things personally.’ I understand the intent behind it, but I think it is okay to care deeply about your work, your people and your impact. When you take things personally, it means you are invested. That is not a weakness; it is a strength.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Besides being at a Brewers game, there is nothing quite like being out on the lake. Whether it is an afternoon boat ride or sitting on the dock with family, that is Wisconsin at its best. It is always peaceful, grounding and a great reminder of what makes this state special.”

Andy Ziegler

OWNER

ERIN HILLS | TOWN OF ERIN

ANDY ZIEGLER, the co-founder and former chief executive officer of Milwaukee-based institutional investment management firm Artisan Partners, purchased Erin Hills golf course in Washington County in 2009 for $10.5 million. Since then, the course has hosted the U.S. Amateur Championship in 2011, the men’s U.S. Open in 2017 and the Mid-Amateur Championship in 2022. Earlier this year, Erin Hills hosted the 2025 U.S. Women’s Open Championship, which drew 160 professional golfers, tens of thousands of spectators and worldwide media and generated an estimated economic impact of $13.3 million for the area. Golf Digest ranks Erin Hills at No. 10 among America’s top public golf courses.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Wisconsin-Madison; J.D., University of Wisconsin Law School

Todd Nelson

OWNER

KALAHARI RESORTS | WISCONSIN DELLS

SINCE OPENING the first Kalahari Resort 25 years ago, Wisconsin Dells-native Todd Nelson has grown the resort brand to locations in Wisconsin, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas and Virginia. The original Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells – home of the largest indoor water park in the state – remains a significant contributor to the region’s economy. The Nelson family is in process on the development of Dawn Manor, a $50 million resort in the Wisconsin Dells area that will include 21 luxury treehouses, 31 groundsupported houses and a supper club. The Nelsons also own and operate Trapper’s Turn Golf Club and Lake Delton Waterfront Villas in Wisconsin Dells. Nelson and his wife, Sheri, were inducted into the Wisconsin Business Hall of Fame in 2023.

Christian Ø verland

RUTH & HARTLEY BARKER DIRECTOR AND CEO WISCONSIN HISTORICAL SOCIETY | MADISON

MINNEAPOLIS-NATIVE Christian Øverland has led the Wisconsin Historical Society as the Ruth & Hartley Barker Director and chief executive officer since 2018. Under his leadership, the historical society is building a new $160.5 million history center, which is set to open in downtown Madison in 2027. The facility is expected to host more than 200,000 visitors and 60,000 students annually. Previously, Øverland held leadership roles at The Henry Ford history museum complex in Michigan and served as the chairperson of the board for the museum’s high school, Henry Ford Academy. He serves on the Wisconsin Governor’s Council on Tourism.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Minnesota; master’s, Cooperstown Graduate Program at State University of New York

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “The construction groundbreaking ceremony for the new Wisconsin History Center that we are building on Capitol Square and the successful completion of our capital campaign for the project.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “Anything written by Jerry Apps, especially ‘Wisconsin Agriculture: A History.’ Others I recommend: Erika Janik’s ‘A Short History of Wisconsin’ and Steven Watt’s ‘The People’s Tycoon: Henry Ford and the American Century.’”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “Engage the arts (museums and performances) as well as look at other business sectors and industries for inspiration.”

DREAM CAR: “It is a race car. The 1967 Ford MK IV which won Le Mans and is now back in limited production.”

Kim Sajet

DONNA AND DONALD BAUMGARTNER DIRECTOR

MILWAUKEE ART MUSEUM | MILWAUKEE

KIM SAJET assumed leadership of the Milwaukee Art Museum in September 2025 as its Donna and Donald Baumgartner Director. Previously, she was the director of the Smithsonian Institution’s National Portrait Gallery for 12 years. Sajet was responsible for commissioning the portraits of President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, exhibitions that drew record-breaking crowds and traveled nationwide. Sajet also raised more than $85 million for the gallery’s operations and endowment. Born in Nigeria to Dutch parents and raised in Australia, Sajet has lived in the U.S. for nearly three decades. She previously was president and chief executive officer of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, and held leadership roles at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and Philadelphia Museum of Art.

EDUCATION: MBA, Melbourne University Business School (Australia); master’s, Bryn Mawar College; doctorate, Georgetown University

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “‘Good things come to those who wait.’ No! You have to be proactive and go after the things you want. I’ve learned that opportunities rarely just appear; you create them through energy, curiosity and persistence.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “Go to other museums. When I’m in a writing funk, I read anything written by Jill Lepore.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “I think we should provide more funding to the arts. Wisconsin’s state funding for the arts ranks last in the nation, with recent per capita spending at approximately $0.18.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Writing when I have time. Right now, it’s also visiting all the great secondhand furniture stores in Milwaukee that focus on mid-century modern furniture, like Duotone Modern, BC Modern and Olson House.”

STILL

Peggy Williams-Smith

PRESIDENT AND CEO VISIT MILWAUKEE | MILWAUKEE

MILWAUKEE NATIVE Peggy Williams-Smith champions her hometown to visitors in her role as president and chief executive officer of Visit Milwaukee. Under her leadership, Visit Milwaukee has launched a new brand and developed marketing initiatives to increase economic impact and strengthen community partnerships. In recent years, the organization has promoted the city through nationwide commercials during the Milwaukee Bucks’ championship run, led the city’s bid to host the 2024 Republican National Convention and promoted the newly expanded Baird Center. She previously spent more than two decades with Marcus Hotels & Resorts.

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “A CEO of a major hospitality company (e.g., Marriott, Hyatt, or Hilton) to see how global decisions are made and bring back insights that could benefit Milwaukee’s tourism ecosystem.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Vision with adaptability. Leaders must set a clear vision but also be nimble enough to pivot when circumstances change every day. They must possess strong emotional intelligence and lead with a collaborative mindset. Diverse perspectives are necessary to build cultures where everyone feels that they belong. Collaboration – across departments, organizations and even competitors – drives innovation.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “We start with the interview process and move on from there. We share the history of Visit Milwaukee and why tourism matters to the city and how our work directly impacts small businesses and the people that own and work in them.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “Gerald Rappaport (longtime manager of the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee and Hilton Milwaukee hotels): ‘Know your numbers.’”

58 Dicus-Johnson, Coreen

58 Gerend, Tim

58 Hinton, Dustin

58 Jacques, Rob

59 Manista, Ray

59 McPartland, Pete

59 Murphy, Scott

60 Nobile, Paul

60 Ogilvie, Alan

INSURANCE insurance

60 Perkins, Wendy

60 Riesch, Ken

61 Senty, Christine

61 Victorson, Mike

62 Westrate, Bill

62 Wicinsky, Garth

63 Williams, Terrance

63 Winter, Melissa

63 Yancy, Telisa

Coreen Dicus-Johnson PRESIDENT AND CEO NETWORK HEALTH | MENASHA

COREEN DICUS-JOHNSON directs the corporate development and strategic direction of Menasha-based Network Health. The health plan, which is owned by Froedtert ThedaCare Health, has over 120,000 members. Dicus-Johnson previously held leadership roles at Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare (now Ascension Wisconsin) and Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Wisconsin. She has received numerous awards for her executive leadership and serves on multiple corporate and nonprofit boards, including United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County, Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Town Bank.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; J.D., DePaul University

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “One of the most influential has been Cathy Jacobson (former Froedtert CEO), who believed in my potential and created opportunities for me to contribute in meaningful ways. She supported me on boards, helped recruit me into my current role as CEO of Network Health and paved the way for leadership opportunities like serving on the MMAC board. Sponsors change careers because they create access. Mentorship provides wisdom; sponsorship provides opportunities.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Being outdoors with friends on a beautiful Wisconsin evening. Nobody appreciates good weather like Wisconsinites, because we know how fleeting it can be.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Ensure that every student in every community has access to an excellent education. Education is the door-opener to opportunity and choice.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “I have a lifelong passion for interior design and real estate. I love taking something unfinished or rough and transforming it into a home that feels warm and inviting. Remodeling and design projects have been a ‘side hustle’ of mine for years, and they bring me tremendous joy. On a lighter note, I also sew and cook. I like to joke that I have a bit of a Martha Stewart alter ego.”

Dustin Hinton PRESIDENT AND CEO, WISCONSIN AND MICHIGAN UNITEDHEALTHCARE | MILWAUKEE

DUSTIN HINTON has led UnitedHealthcare’s operations in Wisconsin and Michigan for over a decade. UnitedHealthcare is the largest private health insurer in the U.S. and has 1.7 million members in Wisconsin. The company employs 8,800 people in the state.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Our company’s unwavering commitment to serving our customers, members, and providers with utmost dedication during a time when we mourned the loss of our national CEO. My team and I were all deeply saddened by his loss, but we have been honoring his legacy by working together, drawing strength from each other in order to deliver the highest quality service and care to those we serve.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: Finding good, young talent willing to take on a challenging and complex industry.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Integrity, good communication skills, the ability to relate to others and the use of good common sense.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Plenty of focus on navigating legislative changes while maintaining a focus on developing new innovative solutions to help address cost pressures and utilization increases. All while finding ways to simplify the health care ecosystem for members to use it when they need it.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I’d want to be a physician or hospital leader. I would want to see and experience the health care pressures from their chairs along with the procedural challenges that the current environment creates. In turn, it would be great for them to experience the competitive environment we are in and the pressure to deliver quality and affordable care for our community via our employers. Great perspective, change and innovation would come from a job swap that would benefit everyone.”

CHAIRMAN,

PRESIDENT

AND

CEO

NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL | MILWAUKEE

TIM GEREND serves as the chairman, president and CEO of Milwaukee-based Northwestern Mutual. After joining the company in 2002 as an attorney, Gerend held a number of leadership roles throughout the company in the law, compliance, field compensation and campus planning sectors. His most recent roles as executive vice president and chief distribution officer assigned Gerend oversight on the company’s go-to-market strategy, including its field force of more than 20,000 advisors and team members as well as its strategic communications and marketing groups. He currently serves on the boards of the American Council of Life Insurers and the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Butler University; J.D., University of Notre Dame

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Authenticity and the ability to lead through change. Whether I’m addressing the company in a town hall or having a one-on-one conversation, I want to be genuine. We need leaders who have optimism for the future and the ability to lead their organizations and teams through change and uncertainty. In that regard, I think it is helpful to have a strong learning orientation and to drive for progress, not perfection.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “The pace of change is faster than ever – and yesterday’s solutions might not always be the best answers for today’s challenges. That’s why I think it’s important for any senior leader to accept that they don’t know it all. Curious learners who keep expanding their perspective and stay committed to lifelong learning will be ready to not only weather adversity but thrive amidst it.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “We love the beauty and serenity of the North Woods, and of course Lambeau Field. That said, I’ll say anywhere on the shore of Lake Michigan.”

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW–Green Bay

Rob Jacques

PRESIDENT AND CEO

WEST BEND INSURANCE CO. | WEST BEND ROB JACQUES was promoted in 2024 to become chief executive officer of West Bend Insurance Co. Jacques has been with the company for 25 years and previously served as vice president of commercial lines and senior VP of commercial underwriting before assuming the role of president in 2022. One of the largest employers in Washington County, West Bend Insurance has about 1,600 employees. The company has been in business for more than 130 years providing insurance to homeowners, automobile owners, and businesses.

Tim Gerend

CEO AND CHAIRMAN

SENTRY INSURANCE | STEVENS POINT

PETE MCPARTLAND has been CEO of Stevens Point-based Sentry Mutual Holding Co. since 2012 and chairman since 2013. He joined the company in 2010 as president and COO. In September 2024, McPartland oversaw Sentry’s acquisition of Nashville-based The General from American Family Insurance in a deal valued at $1.7 billion.

McPartland also has oversight of Sentry’s hospitality arm, which includes SentryWorld, an 18-hole golf course, a 64room boutique hotel, a banquet facility, two restaurants and a sports complex on its Stevens Point campus.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Florida

Ray Manista

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT – CHIEF LEGAL AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL | MILWAUKEE

RAY MANISTA is executive vice president – chief legal and public affairs officer at Milwaukeebased financial services company Northwestern Mutual. Manista is responsible for the company’s law and public affairs function. He also serves as chair of the company’s senior leadership team and as secretary to the board of trustees. In his 20 years with Northwestern Mutual, Manista has held several leadership positions including general counsel, vice president of corporate planning, and vice president of the litigation counsel. Prior to joining Northwestern Mutual, Manista was a shareholder at Godfrey & Kahn. Manista currently serves on the board of directors at Marquette University, All-In Milwaukee, and the Milwaukee Repertory Theater.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and J.D., Marquette University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Over the past several years, our company has worked to plan and prepare for the transition from our retiring CEO to an internal successor and refreshed leadership team, selected by our new CEO. That transition happened this year and we’ve been able to simultaneously maintain strong business momentum and continuity of focus and, at the same time, begun to collectively form the agenda and priorities of our new CEO and senior team.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “First, I have great respect for anyone who is willing to step up and accept a leadership role. I’ve seen many leaders succeed in different ways. There is no one correct path. But in my career journey, the traits that made the difference were curiosity, transparency, contextualization, adaptability and empowerment.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “We’re too humble and should celebrate our great state and the city of Milwaukee more. Wisconsin is a wonderful place to live and is underappreciated by those not from the area.”

Scott Murphy

PRESIDENT AND CEO

JEWELERS MUTUAL GROUP | NEENAH

SCOTT MURPHY has led Neenah-based Jewelers Mutual Group since 2015. The firm provides insurance to jewelry retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers, appraisers and individuals. In recent years, Jewelers Mutual has grown significantly through acquisition, acquiring several firms including Wexler Insurance Agency in 2020, fine jewelry e-commerce site Gem + Jewel in 2021, pawnbroker insurance provider Union Life & Casualty Insurance Agency in 2024, and Jewellers Loop in 2025. It has also introduced several tech-driven tools for jewelers, including the Zing Marketplace platform and a mobile app that assists consumers in protecting and managing their jewelry.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, University of Tennessee COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “One of the greatest accomplishments for the company over this past year has been Jewelers Mutual Group’s expansion into the global market beyond North America through the strategic acquisition of Jewellers Loop. Jewellers Loop is an Australian general agency with access to two leading specialized jewelry insurance products: Q Report and JewelCover.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “The most successful business leaders today balance adaptability, vision, empathy and integrity. In a world of constant change, they navigate uncertainty with urgency, anticipate what’s next and make confident, purpose-driven decisions. Just as important, they inspire people – communicating a clear vision, empowering teams and creating cultures where individuals can grow and thrive. Ultimately, the leaders who succeed are those who adapt quickly, act with integrity and empower others to achieve more than they thought possible.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Fearing change. In order to succeed, I’ve learned how critical it is to adopt an undying level of curiosity and a strong sense of urgency. Be open to evolving your business, not despite change, but because of it. Uncertainty brings opportunity.”

Pete McPartland

PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER

ANTHEM BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD OF WISCONSIN | MILWAUKEE

PAUL NOBILE is president and general manager of Milwaukee-based medical insurance provider Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wisconsin, one of the largest providers in the state. Nobile has been with Anthem for over 15 years. A 20-year veteran of the industry, Nobile previously held roles at Rush Prudential Health Plans, Aetna and UnitedHealthcare. Prior to joining Anthem, Nobile served as the director of sales and account management for the Midwest region at UniCare, a health benefits company based in Chicago and owned by Anthem’s parent company, Elevance Health. Nobile has served on the boards of the Alliance of Health Insurers, the National Association of Health Underwriters and the Wisconsin Association of Health Underwriters.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Illinois Chicago

Wendy Perkins

PRESIDENT AND CEO

WPS HEALTH SOLUTIONS | MONONA

WENDY PERKINS has served as president and chief executive officer of Monona-based WPS Health Solutions since 2023. WPS is a nonprofit provider of health insurance and benefit plan administration. Perkins joined the company in 2016 and previously held various roles, including chief management officer. Prior to joining WPS, she held leadership positions at Anthem and at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wisconsin.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Whitewater

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “We’ve been focused on growth in all areas of our business, including our health plan, in the federal space and with new ventures like WPS Data Logistics. WPS Data Logistics helps companies better manage their data and documents. We’ve done that by creating tailored, end-to-end solutions that adapt to our customers’ needs. Whether they need help processing paper claims into electronic records or managing print and mail fulfillment, we have the right processes and team to do it in a highly secure environment.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Listen! You learn so much more from listening than talking. It allows you to hear other viewpoints and connect with those you’re working with.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “Fail fast, fail often. The intent of this is rooted in curiosity, but sometimes it encourages people to take a reckless approach. Things can move quickly while still ensuring you are undertaking due diligence and being strategic.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “Key fob. I never have to take my keys out of my bag!”

Alan Ogilvie

PRESIDENT AND CEO

CHURCH MUTUAL INSURANCE CO . | MERRILL

ALAN OGILVIE was appointed president and CEO in January 2024. Previously, Ogilvie spent nearly five of his 10 total years with the company overseeing Church Mutual’s subsidiaries as president of subsidiaries and later, executive vice president. He also helped found Madison-based CM Vantage Specialty Insurance Co. in 2016. He has been a member of the American Property Casualty Insurance Association Executive Advisory and Legal and Government Affairs committees, the Wisconsin Insurance Security Fund board of directors, the Wisconsin Insurance Alliance board of directors and the Wisconsin Property and Casualty Advisory Council.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and J.D., UW-Madison

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “You don’t learn about a culture from a PowerPoint or onboarding presentation. You learn a culture by getting up from your desk (and off Zoom) and interacting directly with your organization’s customers, partners and team to get a true sense of the organization.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “An unwillingness to take intelligent risk.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “Jim McIntyre (former CEO of Greenheck Group and former Church Mutual board member), who taught me you need to be willing to take intelligent levels of career risk in order to grow as a leader.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “It will be less about the day-to-day operational details and more about getting the next generation of leaders ready for their next chapter.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “Definitely Matt LaFleur, Green Bay Packers head coach. He has the best job in the world.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Golf. I’ll never be joining the PGA tour, but I love the game, the camaraderie and the time spent outdoors.”

Ken Riesch

OWNER AND PRESIDENT

R&R INSURANCE | WAUKESHA

KEN RIESCH is the founder, owner and president of Waukesha-based insurance agency R&R Insurance. Riesch and his father started the business in 1975 and it’s now in its third generation of family leadership. Riesch’s specialties include commercial insurance, including property and casualty, workers compensation, general liability, business fleet, employee health benefits, business continuation planning and life insurance. He has served as the president of Waukesha Memorial Hospital Foundation’s board of directors, and serves on the boards of Bryon Riesch Paralysis Foundation, West Bend Mutual Insurance, Waukesha State Bank and the Waukesha County Community Foundation.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Washington

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “In a landscape increasingly dominated by mergers and acquisitions, the insurance marketplace has seen a wave of consolidation. Amid this turbulence, our greatest achievement over the past 12 months has been remaining proudly family owned and fiercely independent. Even more meaningful, we’ve laid a strong foundation for generational succession, ensuring that our values, vision and legacy will continue to thrive in the hands of the next generation.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Understanding that when you are not selling and acquiring new clients, you are slowly dying. Prospecting and ongoing relationship building is a mindset that is critical to career growth.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “In today’s dynamic business landscape, true leadership begins with a clear, strategic vision and the discipline to execute it relentlessly. Bold ideas are only the starting point; it’s the grit to follow through that separates dreamers from doers. As markets evolve at breakneck speed, adaptability and the agility to pivot without losing sight of your goals have become indispensable traits of successful leaders.”

Paul Nobile

Christine Senty PRESIDENT AND CEO QUARTZ HEALTH SOLUTIONS | FITCHBURG

CHRISTINE SENTY in early 2024 was appointed president and chief executive officer of Quartz Health Solutions Inc., a provider-owned health insurance company with more than 300,000 members, after serving in an interim capacity since April 2023. Previously, she was vice president, general counsel and secretary at Quartz since 2015. Earlier in her career, Senty was general counsel and corporate compliance officer at Dean Health Plan in Madison, and associate general counsel at Midwest Security Life Insurance Co. in Onalaska. She is a member of the State Bar of Wisconsin, Minnesota State Bar Association and American Health Lawyers Association. She is also a director on the Wisconsin Insurance Security Fund and the Overture Center Foundation.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-La Crosse; J.D., Hamline University

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “The health insurance industry is very complex and fluid. Every day, leaders face a complicated compliance and regulatory framework, changing and/or unclear legislation, inadequate reimbursement, barriers to access, a shortage of health care workers, rising costs and higher than anticipated utilization as the population ages. The pace of transformation is also quick. Managing all of these factors is a big obstacle.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Clarity and organizational health. In such a complicated industry it can become overwhelming very quickly. Shareholders, leadership teams and staff must be clear on the mission and priorities of the business. Clarity multiplies everything a leader does. Organizational health is the single greatest competitive advantage because it results in better, faster decisions which reduces waste and politics. It also improves employee engagement and retention which is hard for competitors to copy.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Failure to recognize how critically important repetition is in clarity. Overcommunication is key. Leaders think they need to say something new every time they communicate with their organizations. That’s not so.”

Mike Victorson CEO

M3 INSURANCE | MADISON

MIKE VICTORSON is chief executive officer of Madisonbased M3 Insurance. Victorson joined M3 in 1992 and worked in customer service, sales, and sales management until 1999 when he was named executive vice president of the employee benefits division. He was named chief operating officer in 2002, president in 2003 and CEO in 2005. In addition to being CEO at M3, Victorson is the co-CEO of BrokerTech Ventures and serves on the boards of The Council of Insurance Agents & Brokers, Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce Foundation, Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce, One Community Bank and YPO Gold Wisconsin.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Augustana College

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Humility, generosity, team oriented and empathy.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Becoming more and more of a student of what AI and digital transformation can do for both our customers and our team.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “Brad Holmes, general manager of the Detroit Lions, because he’s consistently working through leadership transitions while also trying to maintain excellence in strong performance.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “‘The Wisdom of the Bullfrog: Leadership Made Simple (But Not Easy).’”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Walleye fishing.”

MOST REWATCHED MOVIE: “‘The Godfather’ series.”

DREAM CAR: “Aston Martin Vanquish.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Summerfest and a Brewers game.”

CONGRATULATIONS

KEN RIESCH

On being recognized as one of Wisconsin’s most influential leaders

Your passion, ingenuity and courage has made R&R Insurance one the largest independent and family-owned agencies in the region.

Bill Westrate

CHAIRMAN AND CEO

AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE | MADISON

BILL WESTRATE has led Madison-based American Family Insurance Group, one of the nation’s largest property and casualty insurers, since 2022. Westrate started at American Family in 1996 as an actuarial analyst and progressed through several leadership roles before being named chief operating officer in 2014 and enterprise president in 2017. In 2022, he became chief executive officer and two years later became chairman of the board. Reporting $20 billion in annual revenue, American Family is one of Dane County’s largest employers, with 12,500 employees nationwide. Westrate serves on the American Family Children’s Hospital advisory board and is a member of the United Way of Dane County board.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Northwestern College

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “A multi-year transformational effort to streamline and modernize company infrastructure has reduced operating costs, bolstered company financial strength and enhanced the value we deliver to our customers.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Very few people dream of a career in insurance. So, the biggest obstacle is often getting started. Most people who work in insurance have found tremendous opportunity and personal satisfaction in helping people protect against and recover from the unexpected.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Adaptability and resilience are important traits for any leader in such dynamic times, and I believe they are enhanced by surrounding yourself and valuing the insights of people with complementary skills and experiences.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Anything that I can do with my family.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “I enjoy all Wisconsin sports, and this year in particular, I enjoyed following the Milwaukee Brewers incredible season and, of course, watching games at American Family Field!”

Garth Wicinsky

PRESIDENT AND CEO

SECURA INSURANCE | FOX CROSSING

GARTH WICINSKY has led SECURA Insurance as president and CEO since 2022. Wicinsky joined SECURA’s human resources division in 1996 and was promoted to progressive leadership roles over the next 25 years, including senior vice president and chief administrative officer, and chief operations officer before being selected as its top leader in 2021. The Fox Valley-based property and casualty insurance company operates in 13 states and has 1,100 employees.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-La Crosse; MBA, UW-Oshkosh

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “We need to continue providing great products at fair prices, and that is increasingly difficult in an environment that is now full of legal system abuse. Some call it social inflation, yet at the core, most of the increases in policyholder premiums today stem from the need for rate increases to pay for what are now nuclear verdicts. This makes the role of everyone working at a property and casualty insurance company much more difficult, as no one wants to receive premium increases like the ones that have been coming through for the past three years and are projected to continue for the next 12 to 18 months.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I’d love to have a role with the Detroit Lions on the coaching staff for a month. I am a fan of Dan Campbell’s style of playing football, and I believe a month with that team would be something I’d remember for life.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “I have a personal bias that there are tremendous wellbeing benefits to being outside that far outweigh endless hours of living a fantasy life on social media. I love to get outside, play with our dog, walk nearly anywhere with my wife, and just explore. Be outside more, let your device sit on the couch!”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “More fall and less winter!”

Melissa Winter

PRESIDENT ACUITY INSURANCE | SHEBOYGAN

MELISSA WINTER was named president of Acuity Insurance in 2023 as part of a long-range leadership transition plan. Winter began her career at Acuity in 1998 as a claims representative. She worked her way up to become vice president of business consulting in 2016. In 2024, Winter joined the company’s board of directors. Winter oversees the company’s 1,800-plus employees. The insurer has been named to the Ward’s 50 list of top-performing property and casualty companies for 26 consecutive years.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Cardinal Stritch University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “This year we celebrated our 100th anniversary. That milestone allowed us to honor our legacy while launching a new mission and refined values to guide us into the next 100 years. We are excited to build upon our past success to propel our future – a future where more customers, agents and employees experience the Acuity heart.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I’d love to be a Disney imagineer for a month. Blending storytelling, innovation and heart to create immersive experiences that families can experience together is inspiring.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “Simon Sinek’s ‘Together is Better’ and Matthew McConaughey’s ‘Greenlights.’”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Lake time. There is little better than time spent near or on the water, no matter the season.”

Terrance Williams PRESIDENT AND CEO

TRUSTAGE | MADISON

TERRANCE WILLIAMS is president and chief executive officer of TruStage, the Madisonbased insurance and financial services firm formerly known as CUNA Mutual Group. Prior to joining TruStage, Williams held a number of leadership roles at Allstate and spent over 20 years at Nationwide. Williams currently serves on the boards of directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Encompass Health. He also serves as an advisory board member for the University of South Carolina’s Dean of the Darla Moore School of Business.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of South Carolina

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Integrity is foundational. Leadership is more than a title or executing a strategy; it’s all about trust. When you have the privilege to lead, you have a responsibility to act with purpose and uphold the values your organization stands for. That’s not just a leadership principle – it’s a moral imperative. Humility is equally important. The best leaders listen, welcome feedback and foster transparency. When you create space for honest dialogue and invite diverse perspectives, you unlock innovation and build stronger relationships. That’s how you shape a culture that’s resilient, inclusive and built to last.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Too often, leaders misuse their power. Leadership should be more about service than control. It’s a privilege and a duty to use your platform to do the highest good and achieve the greatest impact.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “‘Leaders’ by General Stanley McChrystal and ‘The Invisible Child’ by Andrea Elliott.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “I am a big car enthusiast! Since joining TruStage, I have had the pleasure of driving to (versus having to fly to) Road America, near Elkhart Lake.”

Telisa Yancy

ENTERPRISE PRESIDENT

AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE | MADISON TELISA YANCY has been American Family Insurance’s enterprise president for nearly three years. Prior to this role, Yancy served in a number of leadership roles at the Madison-based company, including president of American Family Direct, chief operating officer, chief marketing officer, vice president of marketing, and director of advertising, brand and media. Before joining the company in 2009, Yancy worked for Burger King Corp. and Ford Motor Co. Yancy currently serves on the board of Deluxe, a financial services company based in Minneapolis.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; master’s, Northwestern University

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “One of the best ways to help new team members understand the company culture is to simply live the culture, the brand and the history in every interaction with all team members, daily. Culture is not taught – it is lived in every moment that we show up.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S BIGGEST CAREER OBSTACLE: “I didn’t grow up with knowledge of the insurance industry, but I feel quite blessed that I found it! It is a great industry, filled with opportunities to grow, be challenged and, most importantly, make an impact on the lives of customers. So, the biggest obstacle is simply getting people interested in the industry –once they discover it, they generally stay, grow, learn and achieve!”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I wouldn’t change jobs with anyone for a full month – I love what I do! However, if I could change jobs with anyone for a few days, I would switch with our brand ambassador, Packers’ QB Jordan Love! Of course, I would only do this Monday to Wednesday. Our AmFam team would enjoy having him in our building – and then he’d be back at his real job when it really mattered! Go, Pack, Go!”

“On and off the field, I’ve always believed that when you dream fearlessly, anything is possible.”

MANUFACTURING

food & Beverage

66 Cahalane, John

66 Carey, Deb

66 Chadha, Sharad

66 Fallucca, Giacomo

66 Farrell, Trevor

67 Gentine, Jeff

67 Gentine, Louie

67 Haddad, Mike

67 Huff, Gregory

68 Sartori, Bert

68 Stayer, Shelly

68 Yanda, Joe manufacturing

69 Adams, Todd

69 Albrecht, Tim

69 Allman, Jan

70 Ariens, Dan

70 Bakke, James

70 Bockhorst, Ken

71 Brinker, Neil

71 Buelow, John

71 Burke, John

72 Cohen, Maryjo

72 Drees, Chris

72 Fabiano, Serafino

72 Hoeschen, Vesla

73 Honkamp, Kevin

73 Imperato, Anthony

73 Jagdfeld, Aaron

manufacturing

(continued)

73 Johnson, Fisk

73 Johnson-Leipold, Helen

74 Kelsey, Todd

74 Knapek, Mike

74 Kohl, Hank

74 Kohler, David

75 Kress, William

75 Manley, Paul

76 Mellowes, John W.

76 Moll, Shane

76 Moret, Blake

76 Pfeifer, John

77 Pinchuk, Nicholas

77 Pinkham, Louis

77 Quadracci, Joel

77 Ramirez, Austin

78 Reddy, Jag

78 Scholz, Frank

78 Shafer, Steve

78 Shivaram, Sachin

79 Starrs, Arthur

79 Sternlieb, Paul

79 Voss, Kurt

79 Wahlin, Bob

80 Waller, Debra

80 Weidemanis, Joakim

80 Woelbing, Paul

80 Zakreski, Todd

John Cahalane

PRESIDENT AND CEO, NORTH AMERICA KERRY | BELOIT

JOHN CAHALANE has led Kerry’s North American operations, including its nearly 5,400 employees and 47 manufacturing facilities, since January 2025. In his more than 20 years with the global food, beverage and pharmaceutical ingredient manufacturer, Cahalane has served in a number of leadership roles including, most recently, president and CEO of its Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa division, global project director of M&A, president and CEO of Latin America and chief operating officer of the Latin America region, among others. The Ireland-based company operates in over 150 countries worldwide. Before joining Kerry in 2002, Cahalane worked as a senior auditor at Deloitte Ireland.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University College Cork

Deb Carey

FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT

NEW GLARUS BREWING CO. | NEW GLARUS

DEBORAH CAREY and her husband, Dan, co-founded one of Wisconsin’s most well-known brewing companies, New Glarus Brewing Co., maker of the iconic Spotted Cow farmhouse ale. After selling their home, raising seed money and crowd-sourcing the rest, the couple negotiated to rent an abandoned warehouse in New Glarus in exchange for stock in what would become New Glarus Brewing Co. Carey is acknowledged as the first woman to found and operate a brewery in the U.S. She was recognized by former President Barack Obama and the White House as a Champion of Change for her entrepreneurship and was a guest in the first lady’s box at Obama’s 2013 State of the Union Address.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Carroll College (Helena, Montana)

Giacomo Fallucca CEO AND CHAIRMAN PALERMO VILLA INC. | MILWAUKEE

MILWAUKEE-NATIVE Giacomo Fallucca is the CEO and chairman of the board at Palermo Villa Inc., the parent company of Palermo’s Pizza. Fallucca grew up in the pizza business, starting at the family restaurant, Palermo Villa on Milwaukee’s East Side, at age 15. He joined the frozen pizza business when the family-owned company started making them in 1979. Fallucca took over company leadership in 1982 from his parents, Gaspare “Jack” and Zina Fallucca. Today, Palermo’s makes nearly 300 million pizzas annually at three production facilities located in Milwaukee, Jefferson and West Milwaukee. Fallucca serves on the board for the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee and mentors young entrepreneurs through the Milwaukee Venture Mentoring Service. He is also a member of the Greater Milwaukee Committee and the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce.

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “We have a robust process to onboard our new pizzaiolos. We pair new hires with a seasoned employee to guide them in their first 30 days. They get a mentor that helps them understand the ins and outs and our company culture.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “From the standpoint of the CEO – it’s being strategic – what are our big ideas, and do we have the right people in place to execute them?”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “My business is my favorite hobby. I have more interests than hobbies. I also enjoy riding my horse, traveling, cooking, entertaining, golf, and spending time with my family.”

DREAM CAR: “Ferrari – I already have one and am working on my second, maybe the 296.”

Sharad Chadha

PRESIDENT AND CEO

SPRECHER BREWING CO. | GLENDALE

SHARAD CHADHA has served as CEO, president and primary owner of Sprecher Brewing Co. since January 2020. Chadha has helped Sprecher triple its sales and expand its footprint to all 50 states, marking a 400% increase in distribution over the past five years. Chadha has also overseen several acquisitions and a major expansion which added a 215,000-square-foot warehouse space for the company. He previously served in executive roles at GE HealthCare, Electrolux and ABB. Chadha also currently serves as president of the International Developing Country Aid Organization.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Savitribai Phule Pune University; MBA, University of WisconsinMilwaukee

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “After rapid growth in the last five years, the last 12 months have been about integration and stabilization. We are implementing a new ERP system, performance management system and EDI system upgrades as well as consolidating our manufacturing footprint at our Glendale headquarters.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Beyond CEO, I see my role as chief growth officer, scaling Sprecher into a $100 million-plus iconic American craft beverage platform. That means attracting top talent, winning national retailers and expanding our brand portfolio and copacking.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “I walk the brewery floor, talk to employees and taste our products. Inspiration always comes from reconnecting with the people and the craft.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “A Sprecher Root Beer Float at a local festival –there’s nothing more Wisconsin than that.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Continue investing in entrepreneurship and innovation hubs to retain young talent and make Wisconsin a national leader in food and beverage innovation. Creating jobs and opportunities!”

Trevor Farrell

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND PRESIDENT, U.S. SCHREIBER FOODS | GREEN BAY

TREVOR FARRELL is the incoming president and CEO of Green Bay-based dairy product manufacturer Schreiber Foods. Farrell will succeed Ron Dunford, who has been president and CEO since 2019, on Jan. 1, 2026. Schreiber Foods is one of the largest dairy companies in the world with more than 10,000 employees and annual revenues of over $7 billion. Currently, Farrell serves as executive vice president and president, U.S., a role he has held since March 2024. Prior to his current role, he served as senior vice president and chief commercial officer, senior vice president of sales, director of retail sales and director of procurement, among other roles. He has been with the company since 1998.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; master’s, UW-Oshkosh

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Bryant University

Jeff Gentine PRESIDENT AND CEO

MASTERS GALLERY FOODS | PLYMOUTH

CHEESE HAS BEEN the Gentine family business dating back to 1953, when Jeff Gentine’s grandfather, Leonard Gentine Sr., founded Sargento Foods. Jeff’s father, Leonard “Butch” Gentine Jr., went on to found Masters Gallery Foods. After starting his career at Richfood Inc., Jeff Gentine joined Masters Gallery Foods in 1996 and held various roles before becoming president and CEO in 2016. A leading national cheese supplier, the company has more than $1 billion in annual sales and has 1,100 employees. Gentine serves on the International Dairy Foods Association’s cheese board and executive council, the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association board of directors and FaB Wisconsin executive board.

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “In May of 2025 we completed our first acquisition, the purchase of the converting/packaging operation of Rumiano Cheese in Willows, California. I was extremely proud to see how the executive team pulled together through the due diligence process, and even more impressed with the engagement of many others in the company as we’ve widened the circle of involvement through the integration process. We are a relatively flat operation for our size, and while we always consider acquisition opportunities, this was not part of our 2025 planning process.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Surround yourself with good people, even if they know more than you do in their own areas. Support them, engage with them, but let them do their jobs and give credit where credit is due. Suppress the ego for the benefit of the team.”

DREAM CAR: “Porsche 911 Turbo S. Combines super car performance with enough refinement that it’s equally at home on the road and track.”

BOARD CHAIR

SCHREIBER FOODS | GREEN BAY

MIKE HADDAD serves as board chair at Green Bay-based Schreiber Foods, one of the largest dairy companies in the world. For 11 years, Haddad served as the company’s president and CEO before becoming board chair in 2019. Haddad has spent nearly 30 years with the company and was instrumental in Schreiber’s recent succession announcement naming Trevor Farrell, current executive vice president and president, U.S., as the company’s next president and CEO. Haddad is a member of the board of directors of the Green Bay Packers and of the John and Ingrid Meng Family Foundation. He also served as chairman of the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy from 2018-23 and as chair of the 2025 NFL Draft Green Bay Host Committee, which spearheaded the NFL Draft in April 2025.

Louie Gentine

CHAIRMAN AND CEO SARGENTO FOODS | PLYMOUTH

LOUIE GENTINE represents the third generation of family ownership and leadership at Plymouth-based Sargento Foods. Gentine climbed the ladder in the family business, starting with washing trucks and working on the production lines part time, to now serving as CEO and chairman of a company with about $2 billion in annual revenue and more than 2,500 employees. Prior to becoming CEO in 2013, he led all three Sargento business units: retail, ingredients and food service. Gentine is chairman of the board of Road America and serves on the board of directors for the International Dairy Foods Association, the Consumer Brands Association, Lakeside Foods, Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, and is the president of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul store in Plymouth.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Notre Dame; MBA, Loyola University

Gregory Huff

PRESIDENT AND CEO

BRAKEBUSH BROTHERS INC. | WESTFIELD

GREGORY HUFF is president and CEO and a member of the board at Brakebush Brothers Inc., a Westfieldbased maker of chicken products. Huff joined Brakebush as chief financial officer in 2015 before moving into his current position in 2022. Previously, Huff held leadership roles at Dickinson Frozen Foods, Western Sugar Co. and Preferred Meal Systems. Under Huff’s leadership, Brakebush acquired Lake Foods’ processing facility in Hartwell, Georgia, a deal that finalized at the end of 2023, marking the company’s latest expansion to its now five national facilities. The $1 billion company processes chicken products that are served in food service kitchens, at national chains and as industrial ingredients. The company also has its own transportation fleet.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Winona State University; MBA, University of Illinois

Mike Haddad

Sartori CEO SARTORI

CO. | PLYMOUTH

BERT SARTORI leads Sartori Co., representing the fourth generation of family leadership in the Plymouth-based cheese manufacturer’s 85-year history. Sartori is a licensed cheesemaker with more than 17 years of experience in finance, operations and business development roles. Prior to becoming CEO, he was a national accounts manager for Sartori for three years. He was then general manager of Colorado-based Blue Moose of Boulder before rejoining the family company in 2016 as production supervisor. He was named executive vice president of sales in 2017, president in 2020 and chief executive officer in 2022. The company has grown from 12 employees at the time of its founding in 1939 to more than 900 today, including nearly 50 licensed cheesemakers.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Colorado Boulder; master’s, Northwestern University COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Since 1939, our mission has been simple: make the best cheese in the world. This past year, we reached two exciting milestones – the acquisition of Rumiano Organic Cheese and the launch of Sartori Cheese Bites, our entry into the snack category. These steps have allowed us to share our cheese in more ways with more people.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL LEADER: “Great leaders set a clear vision and align their teams around a shared purpose. They establish bold but achievable goals and then empower their teams to deliver. Above all, they understand that leadership is about people – trusting, supporting and inspiring them to succeed.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Over the past few years, we’ve built a strong foundation, an exciting pipeline of ideas, and a clear long-term vision. Looking ahead, my role is shifting from building that foundation to stepping back, making expectations clear, then empowering our team to bring those ideas to life.”

Joe Yanda PRESIDENT AND CEO LAKESIDE FOODS | MANITOWOC

JOE YANDA represents the fourth generation of family leadership at Lakeside Foods, a Manitowoc-based producer of food products for the retail, food service and industrial sectors. He joined the family business full time in 1999 as a quality assurance technologist and went on to hold leadership roles in the areas of sales, operations and supply chain. He became chief operating officer in 2019 and president and CEO in 2021. Under his leadership, Lakeside acquired Cher-Make Sausage Co., also of Manitowoc, in 2021. Yanda serves on the boards of the Consumer Brands Association and National Association of Manufacturers.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Luther College; master’s, Silver Lake College

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My dad taught me the value of hard work and humility.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “‘From Strength to Strength’ by Arthur C. Brooks; ‘Scarcity Brain’ by Michael Easter; ‘The Power of Moments’ by Chip and Dan Heath.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “I am an endurance sports enthusiast.”

FAVORITE PODCAST: “‘Rich Roll.’”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Door County.”

CO-OWNER AND BOARD CHAIR

JOHNSONVILLE LLC | SHEBOYGAN COUNTY

SHELLY STAYER is co-owner and chairwoman of Johnsonville LLC, a sausage maker with more than $1 billion in annual revenue and about 4,000 global employees. Stayer has led the Sheboygan County-based company’s marketing sponsorship efforts, including the Tailgate Village at Lambeau Field and its Racing Sausages sponsorship during Milwaukee Brewers games at American Family Field. An active philanthropist, Stayer has chaired numerous fundraising efforts in Wisconsin and Florida, served on the boards of Edgewood College, Marian University, John Michael Kohler Arts Center and Children’s Wisconsin, and founded the Shelly Stayer Shelter for Human Trafficking Victims in 2018 in Florida.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marian University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Successfully managing headwinds has been an important win for us this year. From high commodity prices to tariffs, we’ve seen our fair share of challenges throughout 2025. However, the way I see our people come together to not only survive but truly thrive – and keep growing the business – makes me so proud.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “I think one of the most important qualities of a successful business leader is being a good listener. If you’ve managed to surround yourself with smart people who share your passion for the business and its success, as I have, you need to really take the time to listen to their ideas and leverage their expertise. Working together as a true team leads to the best success.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “When I feel stuck, I like to talk things over with my husband, Ralph (Stayer, retired CEO of Johnsonville LLC). We share the same passion for the business, but we often approach things differently. Sometimes just hearing another perspective can unlock a whole new way of thinking about things.”

Bert

Shelly Stayer

Todd Adams

CHAIRMAN AND CEO

ZURN ELKAY | MILWAUKEE

TODD ADAMS has led Zurn Elkay, a Milwaukee-based supplier of clean water solutions for drinking water, hygiene and sustainable water management, since 2009. He was elected board chair in 2020. Adams joined the company, then Rexnord Corp., in 2004 as vice president, treasurer and controller, and later became senior vice president and chief financial officer. In 2007, he spearheaded the acquisition of Zurn Industries and the creation of the company’s Water Management Platform, which nearly doubled the size of the business and laid the groundwork for the company’s 2021 separation from Rexnord to become Zurn Water Solutions. Under his leadership, the company merged with Elkay Manufacturing Co. in 2022 to become Zurn Elkay.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Eastern Illinois University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Navigating the tariff situation has been a major achievement. Managing all the changes and complexities – from supply chain adjustments to cost impacts – required close collaboration across teams, careful planning and daily management. I couldn’t be more thankful for and complimentary of our internal team and their efforts.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Curiosity drives innovation and challenges the status quo. It fuels engagement and drives organizations to learn and adapt.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Greek chicken. It’s simple, flavorful and always a hit at my house. We like to garden so having fresh herbs at the ready makes it even better. There’s something satisfying about clipping oregano or rosemary and adding it straight to the dish.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Tailgating in Green Bay, hands down. There’s nothing quite like feeling the energy of Lambeau Field before you even enter the stadium. It’s not just football; it’s community, tradition and a celebration of everything Wisconsin. Go Pack Go!”

Tim Albrecht

GROUP PRESIDENT - POWER TOOLS, EQUIPMENT AND OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT

MILWAUKEE TOOL | MILWAUKEE

TIM ALBRECHT has been with Milwaukee Tool for more than 18 years. Albrecht joined the company in 2007 and is currently responsible for multiple functions including brand and channel marketing, industrial design, talent management and business unit operations over hand tools, storage and personal protective equipment. Albrecht is also the executive leader of the Employee Engagement & Inclusion and Community Impact & Philanthropy groups at Milwaukee Tool. He is a member of the board of directors for the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, Milwaukee Academy of Science and a member of the Greater Milwaukee Committee.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, San Diego State University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Maintained focus on developing productivity and safety solutions for our core users while delivering top- and bottom-line financial results.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “People settling into a role and not getting out of their comfort zone to challenge themselves with a new position.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Surrounding themselves with great people and fostering robust dialogue about the business. Then taking calculated risks based on different perspectives.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Leveraging automation and technology to allow me to spend more time working on the business versus in the business.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Getting out to Fiserv Forum with my family to watch the Bucks play.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “‘The Innovator’s Dilemma’ by Clayton Christensen.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Grilled salmon and vegetables.”

Jan Allman CEO

FINCANTIERI MARINETTE MARINE | MARINETTE

IN MARCH OF 2025, Jan Allman was reappointed CEO of Fincantieri Marinette Marine after previously serving in the role for seven years from 2014 to 2021. Most recently, Allman served as vice president and general manager of Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding, another subsidiary under the Fincantieri Marine Group parent company. Allman also served as senior vice president of public affairs and community relations for the parent company. She is a member of the board of the Green Bay Packers and serves as president of the board of directors for the Marinette Menominee Area Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, she was appointed as a Wisconsin Waterway Commissioner in 2020 and serves on the Green Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve Site Selection Committee.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Kettering University

MANUFACTURING

Dan Ariens

CEO ARIENS CO. | BRILLION

DAN ARIENS is a fourth-generation leader of Ariens Co., a maker of outdoor power equipment. Ariens joined the company in 1983 and became CEO in 1998. Ariens has served on several boards of directors for nonprofit economic development groups in the state, including Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development - Council on Workforce Investment and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation Authority. He currently holds positions on boards for the Green Bay Packers, Mansfield Energy Corp., Road America, Sartori and Cash Depot.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of St. Thomas

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “With the impact of artificial intelligence, there is a lot of uncertainty in the work for today’s leaders. To navigate this, leaders need to have empathy and adaptability. They must be able to understand and manage their own emotions, expect the best talent from the team, and remain empathetic in an incredibly fast-changing world. These qualities help build trust and foster collaboration, something which will become a cherished commodity in the brave new world of AI. Finally, leaders need to help their teams stay focused during the expansive learning we are about to witness.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “I am drawn to books about history, ancient civilizations and leadership. I recently read and recommend the ‘Power of Regret’ by Daniel H. Pink. It explains how looking backwards helps you and your business move forward.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “I really like my new putter.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “You can find me at the grill. My specialty is grilled salmon with seasonal vegetables, or a good tenderloin… and I can do a nice grilled tuna.”

James Bakke

PRESIDENT AND CEO

SUB-ZERO GROUP INC. | MADISON

JAMES BAKKE represents the third generation of family leadership at SubZero Group Inc., serving as the longtime president and chief executive officer of the Madison-based manufacturer of refrigeration, freezer and wine storage products. Under his leadership, the company completed a $62 million expansion at its Fitchburg plant, invested in a new 400,000-squarefoot assembly facility in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and acquired Wolf Range Co. and the Cove brand of dishwashers. Before becoming president, he spent a decade in various roles within the family business. Bakke has served on the board of directors for the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, PDQ Corp. and the Madison Ronald McDonald House.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

Ken Bockhorst

CEO

BADGER METER | BROWN DEER

WATERTOWN-NATIVE Ken Bockhorst has led Brown Deer-based Badger Meter as president since 2019 and as CEO since 2020. He joined the company as chief operating officer in 2017. Under his leadership, Badger Meter, which produces water meters and other flow instrumentation products, reported record-breaking net sales of $826.6 million in 2024, which is 18% higher than 2023’s reported $703.6 million. Prior to joining Badger Meter, Bockhorst was an executive vice president with Actuant Corp. and held prior leadership roles at IDEX Corp. and Eaton Corp.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marian University; MBA, UW-Madison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “It’s hard not to consider all that’s happened over the past several years when thinking about this question. For me, I have been so proud of how our employees have navigated COVID, supply chain disruption, hyperinflation, and now the uncertainty posed by tariffs and geopolitical challenges. Our team has doubled revenue organically and integrated five acquisitions in spite of all these challenges. The perseverance to succeed in any operating condition has been our most significant success.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “The next 10 years will have unlimited career potential for those who are looking to grow. An estimated 33% to 50% of water utility employees will retire within the next five to 10 years, with many of those being leadership positions. It’s a great time to be in the water space.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “I cringe when I hear someone say, ‘Fake it until you make it.’ That is the worst career strategy or advice I think I’ve ever heard. Be humble, work hard, and learn from those around you, or you will quite possibly, ‘Fake it until you get fired.’”

Neil Brinker

PRESIDENT AND CEO

MODINE | RACINE

SINCE DECEMBER 2020, Neil Brinker has led Modine as president and CEO of the Racine-based heating and cooling systems manufacturer. Under his leadership, the company has completed multiple acquisitions and invested heavily in serving the growing data center market, which helped drive its double-digit sales growth this year. The company recently opened a new manufacturing facility in Franklin and plans to hire a total of 300 employees to work there.

Before joining Modine, Brinker was president and chief operating officer at Advanced Energy and spent six years in senior leadership roles at IDEX Corp. Earlier in his career, he held positions with Danaher Corp. in global marketing and with General Motors. Brinker also serves on Modine’s board of directors.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Michigan State University; MBA, Eastern Michigan University; master’s, University of Michigan

John

Buelow

PRESIDENT MERCURY MARINE | FOND DU LAC

JOHN BUELOW became president of Mercury Marine, the Fond du Lacbased marine engine division of Brunswick Corp., in 2023. Over his nearly 20 years with the company, Buelow has been vice president of business development, VP and general manager of Mercury Castings, VP for category management and strategic planning and VP of global operations. Prior to that, he held several finance roles. During his time as head of global operations, Buelow was influential in planning and executing expansions of Mercury’s manufacturing and distribution facilities and in the launch of key products.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Oshkosh; MBA, UW-Milwaukee COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Over the past year, Mercury Marine continued its legacy of innovation with the expansion of its awardwinning Verado outboard lineup and introduction of the all-new V10 425hp Verado outboard and a performance enhanced version of the V10 350hp Verado outboard. In addition, Mercury Racing introduced a new 15-inch Heavy-Duty CMS (Conventional Midsection), built for the Mercury Racing 200R, 300R, and all-new 200 ROS and 300 ROS competition outboards.”

John Burke PRESIDENT TREK BICYCLE

CORP. | WATERLOO

JOHN BURKE has led Trek Bicycle Corp., one of the largest manufacturers and distributors of high-end bicycles in the world, as president since 1997. Founded in a Waterloo barn in 1976 by his father, Dick Burke, Trek has since grown to become a global business, producing millions of bicycles annually and employing about 7,000 worldwide. Burke has authored four books, “Presidential Playbook 2020,” “12 Simple Solutions to Save America,” “One Last Great Thing,” a memoir about his father, and “A Bold Plan for America: 14 Nonpartisan Solutions Based on the Facts.” He served as chairman of President George W. Bush’s President’s Council on Physical Fitness & Sports. He is also a founding board member of the Bikes Belong Coalition.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Boston University

MANUFACTURING

Maryjo Cohen

PRESIDENT AND CEO

NATIONAL PRESTO INDUSTRIES | EAU CLAIRE

MARYJO COHEN has served as CEO of Eau Claire-based National Presto Industries since 1994 and president since 1989. She also serves as treasurer of Presto Manufacturing Company. National Presto Industries provides housewares and small appliances, defense, and safety products. The company was founded 120 years ago as a manufacturer of gas engines for railroad repair equipment, hoists and concrete mixing implements. The company transitioned to manufacturing kitchen appliances in the mid-1940s. Previously, Cohen served as interim chief financial officer, vice president, associate resident counsel and assistant to the treasurer. Cohen has been the chairman of National Presto since January 2002, after taking over from her father. She joined the company in 1976.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and J.D., University of Michigan

Chris Drees

PRESIDENT AND CEO

MENASHA CORP. | NEENAH

CHRIS DREES was named president, CEO and director of the board of Menasha Corp. in 2023. Menasha Corp. is a sustainable corrugated and reusable plastic packaging manufacturer and fulfillment supply chain services provider. Previously, Drees served as president of Fond du Lac-based manufacturer Mercury Marine, the largest division of the Brunswick Corp. Drees spent 24 years at Brunswick before joining Menasha Corp. In addition to Menasha Corp., Drees serves as board chair of the Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce and Keller Builders Inc. He has also served on boards in the marine and banking industries.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Eau Claire; MBA, Marquette University

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “We help new employees understand our culture by introducing them to our core values: We Care, We Inspire, We Lead. Each value includes additional context that guides how we work, collaborate, and support one another across the organization.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Many leaders jump on the latest business bandwagon. Just because other companies are doing something doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for yours.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Nothing like playing a round of golf to clear your mind.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “I believe eliminating Wisconsin income taxes could attract new talent to the state.”

Serafino Fabiano

ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT – SITE HEAD

ELI LILLY AND CO. | PLEASANT PRAIRIE

Vesla Hoeschen

CHAIR OF THE BOARD

BEMIS MANUFACTURING CO.

SHEBOYGAN FALLS

VESLA HOESCHEN represents the fourth generation of family leadership at Bemis Manufacturing Co., a global manufacturer of toilet seats and a variety of consumer, commercial and medical products. Hoeschen has served as board chair since 2021. She was elected after serving for three years previously. She also founded and led the company’s family council for nearly 10 years. Early in her career, she worked as a regional sales manager for Bemis. Hoeschen has served on the board of the Maryland Avenue Montessori School Fund for more than 15 years and was president for three. She was also an advisory board member for UW-Madison’s Family Business Center.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Northwestern University; master’s, UW-Madison COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “We brought on three new directors to the board. They will bring a fresh perspective and replace directors who are cycling off. We have a fiduciary board with a majority of independent directors, which is unusual for a family-owned business. Maintaining the alignment between our stakeholders, family shareholders and the growing business is always a challenge. We rely on our family values of stewardship, integrity, respect, innovation and sustainability to guide the board, management and stakeholders.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “I value curiosity in my leaders. A curious leader has the humility to recognize they don’t have all the answers. They ask questions, look at a problem from different perspectives and better utilize their team and board of directors.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My dad has been my mentor. He taught me to work hard, ask questions and surround myself with people smarter than you.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Carnitas – a family favorite with plenty of leftovers. I enjoy cooking, but not every night.”

SERAFINO FABIANO is an associate vice president and site head of Indianapolis-based pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly and Co. As site head, Fabiano is overseeing the company’s $3 billion Kenosha County development. The company entered the southeastern Wisconsin market with its 2024 purchase of the Nexus Pharmaceuticals plant in Pleasant Prairie, and another building on an adjacent site in the Village of Bristol. The company is expanding the former Nexus facility and plans to build several additional buildings on the campus it has created. Fabiano has been with the company since 2015, serving in several roles in Italy before moving to the U.S. in early 2024 to become associate vice president – global M&Q operational excellence and continuous improvement. He served in that role for 10 months before becoming the site head of Lilly’s Kenosha County development, a project which will bring 750 new jobs to its growing campus in Pleasant Prairie and Bristol.

EDUCATION: Master’s, Università degli Studi di Firenze

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Over the past year, we’ve made tremendous progress integrating our site into the broader Lilly organization, with a strong focus on cultural and operational alignment. We accelerated operational readiness for our first Lilly medicine and laid the foundation for a $3 billion expansion. At the same time, we launched a comprehensive leadership development program and established a long-term community engagement strategy to strengthen our local presence and impact.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving environment, successful leaders must navigate uncertainty with focus and resilience, while staying grounded in core values like integrity, excellence and respect for people. The ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution is essential. Leaders must see the big picture while staying close to the day-to-day realities. Equally important are adaptability, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to developing others.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I’d choose to be a professional tennis player – or even better, a professional tennis coach. There’s something inspiring about the discipline, focus and continuous pursuit of mastery in that environment.”

Kevin Honkamp CEO

HYDRITE CHEMICAL CO. | BROOKFIELD

KEVIN HONKAMP is the CEO of Brookfield-based Hydrite, a manufacturer and distributor of chemicals and related services. Honkamp is a third-generation family leader in the company and has served in his role since early 2017. Prior to becoming CEO, he was vice president of sales and procurement. In total, he has spent nearly 30 years with the company and serves on the board for Hydrite and The Honkamp Foundation, his family’s philanthropic nonprofit.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Santa Clara University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Hydrite’s most significant success over the past 12 months has been the recent acquisition of Enterprise Specialty Products Inc., a leading provider of foam control products across multiple industries. This strategic move not only strengthens Hydrite’s product portfolio but also marks its expansion into the Southeast U.S., establishing a coast-to-coast presence.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Now as CEO, I see my role evolving over the next one to two years to focus more on strategic business visibility and shaping Hydrite’s long-term vision –especially as we prepare to celebrate our 100th anniversary in 2029 and build a legacy that reflects our values and future ambitions.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “I’m especially excited about the potential of AI. Tools like Copilot are quickly becoming my favorite technology because they’re not just smart assistants. AI is a gateway to smarter decision-making and is empowering our teams to think bigger.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Outside of work, I prioritize time with family, which keeps me grounded and energized. I also enjoy golfing for its strategic challenge and boating as a way to recharge and reflect.”

Aaron Jagdfeld

CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT AND CEO

GENERAC | TOWN OF GENESEE

AARON JAGDFELD is chairman, president and CEO of Generac and is credited with leading the company’s transformation from a manufacturer of backup generators and enginepowered products into a global energy technology company. Jagdfeld became president in 2007, was appointed CEO in 2008 and was named chairman in 2016. Known for its home standby generator, Generac has grown under Jagdfeld’s leadership into a company with more than $4 billion in annual revenue and a diversified portfolio of energy products and solutions. Generac has more than 9,000 employees. Jagdfeld is a member of the board of directors at Summerfest producer Milwaukee World Festival Inc. and The Hillman Group.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Whitewater

Anthony Imperato

FOUNDER AND CEO

HENRY REPEATING ARMS | RICE LAKE

ANTHONY IMPERATO is the founder and CEO of Rice Lake-based firearms manufacturer Henry Repeating Arms. His introduction to the firearms industry started in 1978 when he began working in his family’s gun shop in downtown Manhattan. In 1996 he founded Henry Repeating Arms along with his father, Louis Imperato, and in March 1997, the company shipped its first rifles. Under Imperato’s guidance, Henry has grown from 17 employees to over 800 today. The company has more than 400,000 square feet of manufacturing space in Rice Lake and Ladysmith, Wisconsin, and earlier this year announced plans to move its New Jersey operations to Wisconsin.

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Our most significant success has been the consolidation of our New Jersey operations into our facilities in northwest Wisconsin. This was a major undertaking, and we’re proud to have fully committed all of Henry Repeating Arms’ manufacturing to Wisconsin.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “Our HR and communications teams play a key role in immersing new employees into the Henry culture. We like to say they ‘drink the Henry Kool-Aid,’ meaning they quickly understand our values, mission and mindset.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My mentor is a dear friend, trusted advisor and has consulted for Henry for more than 25 years. One of the most valuable lessons he taught me is: Things are never as good as they seem, and they are never as bad as they seem.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Waiting too long to make necessary changes. There’s an old saying, ‘When the cow is sick, you have to kill it.’ In other words, decisive action is often required, and hesitation can make matters worse.”

Fisk Johnson

CHAIRMAN AND CEO

S.C. JOHNSON | RACINE

FISK JOHNSON has led S.C. Johnson & Son Inc. as chief executive officer since 2004, representing the fifth generation of family leadership at the multinational household cleaning supplies manufacturer. The Racine-based company’s family of brands includes Windex, Pledge, Glade, Shout, Saran, Ziploc, Kiwi, Scrubbing Bubbles and Raid. Johnson and his three siblings are shareholders, and together they own a majority of the company. Johnson joined the business in 1987 as a marketing associate and was appointed chairman in 2000 and CEO in 2004. He currently serves on the board of directors of The Consumer Goods Forum. Previously, he served on the boards of several conversation organizations as well as on two federal advisory committees: the U.S. President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative’s Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, master’s in engineering, master’s in physics, MBA, doctorate in physics, all from Cornell University

Helen Johnson-Leipold

CHAIRMAN AND CEO

JOHNSON OUTDOORS | RACINE

HELEN JOHNSON-LEIPOLD is chairman and CEO of Racinebased Johnson Outdoors and chairman of Racine-based Johnson Financial Group. With a background in advertising, Johnson-Leipold joined the family-owned cleaning products company SC Johnson in 1985 and worked her way up to become vice president of worldwide consumer products in 1997. She was named chairman of Johnson Outdoors, an outdoor recreational equipment and clothing manufacturer and marketer, in 1999 and chairman of both Johnson Financial Group and The Johnson Foundation in 2004, succeeding her father (Samuel Curtis Johnson Jr.) in all three roles. An heir to SC Johnson, Johnson-Leipold has a net worth of $4.8 billion. She ranked No. 319 on Forbes’ 2025 list of the 400 wealthiest Americans.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Cornell University

Todd Kelsey CEO

PLEXUS CORP. | NEENAH

TODD KELSEY is chief executive officer of Neenahbased Plexus Corp., a provider of electronics engineering, manufacturing and aftermarket services. The company serves customers in industries with complex products and regulatory requirements, including the health care, industrial and aerospace/ defense markets. It has more than 20,000 employees. Kelsey joined Plexus in 1994 as a design engineer and went on to hold various leadership roles before becoming president and CEO in 2016. During his tenure as CEO, the company’s revenues have nearly doubled. Kelsey serves on the board of Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, UW-Madison; MBA, UW-Oshkosh

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Our greatest successes are always a direct result of our global team’s extraordinary passion and commitment, which helped us earn a prestigious honor in 2025. We were named Manufacturer of the Year, presented by Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce. This award is a testament to our commitment to innovation, philanthropy and technological advancements as well as our dedication to customer satisfaction and the quality jobs we create in Wisconsin.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “To me, three of the most important qualities of a successful business leader are vision, integrity and the ability to empower others. A great leader must have a clear and compelling vision for their organization, which inspires their team to work toward a shared purpose; integrity is the foundation of trust between a leader and their team; successful leaders empower their team members to take ownership and make decisions.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “I love a good steak and enjoy preparing them in various ways. I’m always up for the challenge of achieving the perfect medium-rare with a crispy crust. I’m also pretty good on the griddle - my grandchildren would say I have a future as a breakfast chef.”

Hank Kohl PRESIDENT AND CEO MPE INC. | MILWAUKEE

HANK KOHL has served as president and chief executive officer of Milwaukee-based MPE Inc., a manufacturer of electromechanical medical systems and mobility solutions, since 2015. Kohl was instrumental in building MPE’s commercialization platform for medtech OEMs, allowing FDA-approved products to go to market faster and at a much lower cost, ultimately increasing revenue for the customer. Prior to joining MPE, Kohl served as president and CEO of Performance Manufacturing Engineering for over six years as well as president of HAINBUCH America Corp., COO and director of sales and marketing at Ann Arbor Machine Co., and vice president of TPS International and Guehring Automation.

EDUCATION: Diplom Ingenieur – Maschinenbau, Technical University Munich

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “We have been transforming our business from a supplier of components to a vertically integrated contract design and manufacturing organization of sophisticated medical devices. The team has embraced this evolution, and they have been at the core of transforming us into a company that does things every day that have never been done before.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “The biggest obstacle I see is the individual self. People that want to work hard, continuously learn, develop and apply technology will be in high demand. The days are over where you stop learning after your degree. Technology evolution will require that all of us continue to learn and evolve. What you do today will not be what you are doing tomorrow.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “The speed at which technology is evolving will require this role to continuously learn how and what to implement and use. AI and the tech it will bring will transform our industry. Additionally, employee development coaching to learn to adapt and change.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “Work-life balance – either commit to what you are doing 110% or don’t do it.”

Mike Knapek

PRESIDENT AND CEO

YASKAWA AMERICA INC. | FRANKLIN MILWAUKEE-NATIVE Mike Knapek has served as CEO of Yaskawa America, a subsidiary of Japanbased Yaskawa Electric Corp., since 2015. Knapek joined the company in 2001 as vice president of Yaskawa America Drives. He served in a number of leadership roles, including corporate vice president of Yaskawa Electric Corp., before becoming president and CEO. In 2022, Knapek was appointed chairman of Yaskawa America. Prior to joining Yaskawa, Knapek served in a variety of roles at New Berlin-based Magnetek. Magnetek was acquired by Yaskawa in 2001, marking Knapek’s transition to the Yaskawa brand. In June, Yaskawa America announced plans to move its headquarters from Illinois to Franklin, and invest $180 million to create a campus with 1,000 employees, including 700 new jobs.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; master’s, UW-Milwaukee

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Begin our journey to build Yaskawa America’s campus in Franklin.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Speed of growth is moderate, but employees are looking for faster market and opportunity growth.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Trust, empathy, compassion and consistency. Technical and financial skills are assumed.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “Tom Doll – be aggressive; making mistakes is OK, but only make it once.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “Any professional golfer. I love competition and being under pressure. You don’t always succeed but you always learn.”

FAVORITE PODCAST: “Science and business guests on Joe Rogan.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Steak on the grill.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Packers and Brewers tailgating.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Extend summer from four months to nine months. Summers in Wisconsin are fantastic.”

David Kohler

CHAIR AND CEO

KOHLER CO. | KOHLER

DAVID KOHLER is a fourth-generation family leader of Kohler Co., a Sheboygan County-based manufacturer of kitchen and bath products, cabinetry, tile and lighting, engines, generators and more. The company also has a hospitality division, Destination Kohler, which includes The American Club resort in Kohler, Lodge Kohler in Green Bay and the Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run golf courses in Sheboygan County. Kohler was named president and chief executive officer of Kohler Co. in 2015 and was named board chair in 2022. Kohler previously held various roles in the company including vice president of sales, sector president of K&B Americas, group president of K&B Group, executive VP and president and COO. He serves on the boards of Kohler Co., Old Course Ltd., Interface Inc., Interceramic, Discovery Energy LLC, and the Green Bay Packers. He also serves on the board of the Kohler Foundation and the Advisory Board of the Duke University Fuqua/Coach K Center on Leadership and Ethics.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Duke University; master’s, Northwestern University

William

Kress

CHAIRMAN AND CEO

GREEN BAY PACKAGING | GREEN BAY

WILLIAM KRESS is the chairman and CEO of Green Bay Packaging Inc., a pulp and paper manufacturer founded in 1933 by Kress’ grandfather George Kress. William represents the third generation of family leadership at GBP. He joined the company in 1979 as a sales trainee and was named president in 1995. In 2001, William was named CEO and was elected chairman in 2019. GBP has more than 40 locations in 16 states and employs more than 5,400 people. William currently serves on the boards of Green Bay Packaging, the De Pere Cultural Foundation (Mulva Cultural Center), advisory board for Associated Bank, and is an emeritus board member of the Green Bay Packers.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Colorado Boulder

Paul Manley

PRESIDENT AND CEO

MGS MFG. GROUP | GERMANTOWN

PAUL MANLEY, who has spent nearly three decades with MGS Mfg. Group, has served as the company’s president and chief executive officer since 2020. Based in Germantown, MGS is a vertically integrated provider of manufacturing solutions for complex, high-precision plastic components. It operates 12 locations globally. Manley joined the firm in 1996 as an accounts payable clerk and worked his way up through the organization to become chief financial officer in 2009, CFO and chief operating officer in 2013, president in 2016, and president and CEO in 2020. Under his leadership, the company has made several acquisitions and has shifted to servicing customers in the pharmaceutical, diagnostic and medical technology industries. Previously, MGS also served the automotive and electronics markets.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Milwaukee

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Talk to your team and stay connected professionally and personally. We all don’t work for a logo, we work for each other. Take time to ensure the team stays connected with each other. Everyone talks about team building, but it’s the execution and sincerity that need to show through for it to be effective. It’s not about checking a box.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Don’t forget how you got here. While economic landscape, competitive pressures or something else may require changes in strategy and flexibility, it’s important to not lose sight of what makes the business successful.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “I walk, no music or podcast and preferably outside. It helps to clear my mind and focus.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “The computer we keep in our pockets (iPhone) and my Oura ring – the health KPIs help keep me accountable.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Homemade pasta sauce – an all-day affair.”

John W. Mellowes CEO

CHARTER MANUFACTURING | MEQUON

SINCE 2013, John W. Mellowes has served as CEO of Mequon-based Charter Manufacturing, a family of metals manufacturing businesses, including Charter Steel and Charter Wire. Mellowes is a fourth-generation family owner succeeding his father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Alfred Mellowes, who founded the company in 1936. Under Mellowes’ leadership, Charter Manufacturing and its businesses have acquired Lokey Metals, Cobra Metal Works, Aarrowcast Inc. and Niles Iron & Metal Co. The company reports annual sales of nearly $2 billion and ranked No. 26 in the 2025 Deloitte Wisconsin 75 list of the largest private companies in the state.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Princeton University; MBA, The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania

Blake Moret

CHAIRMAN AND CEO

Shane Moll

GROUP PRESIDENT MILWAUKEE TOOL | BROOKFIELD

IN NOVEMBER of 2025, Shane Moll was named group president of the entire Milwaukee Tool company. Moll has been with the company for nearly 20 years. He joined Milwaukee Tool in 2007 as vice president of marketing and has since taken on increasing responsibility. He became group president of the power tools, equipment and outdoor power equipment business unit in 2024. Also in 2024, Moll was placed into a five-person senior management group that was tasked with leading Milwaukee Tool following the promotion of Steve Richman to CEO of Milwaukee Tool’s parent company, Hong Kong-based Techtronic Industries. Prior to joining Milwaukee Tool, Moll worked for Black & Decker.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Shippensburg University; master’s, Loyola University Maryland

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “Our key executives take a hands-on approach to welcoming new employees. Each of us meets directly with small groups of new team members to personally share our company strategy, the importance of our culture and what it means for them.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Prioritizing people and culture, embracing and leveraging rapid advancements in technology and active listening.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “Steve Richman, CEO of TTI. People and culture are the bookends of a company’s success.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Failing to balance critical thinking with swift decision making.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “Google NotebookLM.”

FAVORITE PODCAST: “‘Acquired.’”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Smoked brisket.”

ROCKWELL AUTOMATION | MILWAUKEE

BLAKE MORET is chairman and CEO of Milwaukeebased Rockwell Automation, a manufacturer of industrial automation and digital transformation products. In his over 40 years with the company, Moret has held several executive positions before becoming CEO in 2016 and chairman of the board in 2018. An advocate of workforce development, Moret is vice chair for the National Association of Manufacturers’ board of directors and is a member of the Wisconsin Governor’s Council on Workforce Investment. He is also co-chair of the World Economic Forum’s Advanced Manufacturing Community of CEOs and is a member of the Business Roundtable, among other board service.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Georgia Institute of Technology

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Growing Rockwell’s market share and increasing profitability despite volatile business conditions.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “We have a comprehensive on-boarding process and well-defined priorities that include the principles of Rockwell’s culture. I talk about ways to bring our culture to life in every employee meeting.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “Take a step back, go for a run or bike ride, and don’t hurry to force an important decision.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “GPS.”

MOST REWATCHED MOVIE: “‘Forrest Gump.’”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Shrimp fettucine alfredo.”

DREAM CAR: “Rivian R1S.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Improved levels of proficiency at MPS Schools.”

John Pfeifer

PRESIDENT AND CEO

OSHKOSH CORP. | OSHKOSH

JOHN PFEIFER has served as Oshkosh Corp.’s president, CEO and member of the board since April 2021. He served as president and chief operating officer from 2019 to 2021. Prior to joining Oshkosh Corp., Pfeifer was senior vice president of Brunswick Corp. and president of Mercury Marine. During his Brunswick tenure, he also served as president of Brunswick Marine in Europe, the Middle East and Africa as well as president of the Brunswick Asia Pacific Group. He also held executive and general management positions with ITT Corp. and Milacron Inc. Pfeifer serves on the board of directors at Froedtert ThedaCare, and on the boards of the National Exchange Bank & Trust and The Manitowoc Co.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Our greatest success this past year has been helping everyday heroes – the people who do the toughest, most important work – by giving them the advanced technology they need to stay safe, work smarter and make a bigger impact. By focusing on intuitive design and innovation, we’ve been able to put people first and support them in achieving extraordinary results.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “The top qualities of a business leader today are inspiring vision and purpose, building trust with integrity, creating engagement and fostering innovation. Great leaders are customer-centric, inspire their teams to do their best work and deliver results even in the toughest situations.”

Nicholas Pinchuk

CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT AND CEO

SNAP-ON INC. | KENOSHA

NICHOLAS PINCHUK has served as Kenosha-based Snap-on Inc.’s president and chief executive officer since 2007 and chairman of the board since 2009. Previously, Pinchuk served as Snap-on’s president and COO, and before that as senior vice president and president–worldwide commercial and industrial group. Pinchuk is a member of the board of directors of the National Association of Manufacturers, the U.S. Council on Competitiveness, the National Manufacturing Institute, the U.S. Manufacturers Alliance and Carthage College. He is past chair of the Skills for America’s Future organization at The Aspen Institute and served as an officer of the U.S. Army in Vietnam.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute; MBA, Harvard Business School

Louis

DIRECTOR AND CEO

REGAL REXNORD CORP. | MILWAUKEE

LOUIS PINKHAM leads Regal Rexnord Corp., a Milwaukee-based manufacturer of electric motors and power transmission components. Under Pinkham’s leadership, Milwaukee-based Rexnord and Beloit-based Regal Beloit Corp. completed a $3.7 billion merger of Rexnord’s process and motion control business into Regal Beloit, to become Regal Rexnord, in 2021. In 2023, the company relocated its corporate headquarters from Beloit to downtown Milwaukee. Prior to joining Regal Rexnord in 2019, Pinkham held leadership positions at Crane Co. and Eaton Corp. Pinkham serves as a director of Jacobs Solutions Inc. and as a member of the board of trustees for the University of Chicago Medical Center. In October, the company announced that it has begun a search process for a new CEO.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Duke University; master’s, Northwestern University’s McCormick School of Engineering; MBA, Northwestern University’s Kellogg Graduate School of Management

Austin Ramirez PRESIDENT AND CEO

HUSCO | WAUKESHA

AUSTIN RAMIREZ is CEO of Husco, a manufacturer of hydraulic and electro-mechanical components for automotive and off-highway applications. Since taking over as Husco’s second-generation family leader in 2017, the company has tripled in size to more than $500 million in global sales, received designation as Global Growth Company by the World Economic Forum and been recognized as Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year. Ramirez serves on the boards of the National Association of Manufacturers, the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, Old National Bancorp and The Marcus Corp. He is also a co-founder of St. Augustine Preparatory Academy, founder and co-chair of Democracy Found and served as board chair of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce from 2023 to 2025.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Virginia; master’s, Stanford

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “Run.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Skiing.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “Whoop.”

FAVORITE PODCAST: “Acquired.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Skiing the Birkie.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “K-12 education.”

CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT AND CEO

QUAD | SUSSEX

JOEL QUADRACCI leads Sussex-based Quad, a company founded by his father, the late Harry V. Quadracci. He oversees the company’s more than 11,000 employees. Having grown up in the business, Quadracci officially joined Quad in 1991. He became president and CEO in 2006 and chairman in 2010. Under his leadership, Quad has evolved from being a printer to a global marketing company. Quadracci serves on the board of directors for several organizations, including Plexus Corp., Pixability, Road America, the National Association of Manufacturers and the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce. He also serves as a trustee for the Milwaukee Art Museum and on the advisory council of the Smithsonian National Postal Museum.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Skidmore College

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “We are seeing incredible results through our transformation from a world-class printer into a full-scale marketing services provider. We’ve moved upstream from execution into a trusted advisor position for our clients. During a time when brands want to simplify complex processes and reduce agency hand-offs, our offering provides truly integrated production, creative and media services. That’s leading to major wins with household names like Valvoline Instant Oil Change, Titleist and Gallo.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “The marketing ecosystem is increasingly fragmented, and many of the big agency holding companies are not designed to provide the integrated offerings brands need today. This dysfunction is leading to a lot of industry talent feeling displaced or unaligned with their organizations.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My father, Quad’s founder, taught me that your legacy is the culture you build, but oftentimes that legacy isn’t fully determined until after you’re gone. The other thing he taught me was ‘KISP’ (keep it simple and perfect). If something feels too complicated, it’s probably because you made it that way.”

Joel Quadracci

Pinkham

Jag Reddy

PRESIDENT AND CEO

MAYVILLE ENGINEERING CO. | MILWAUKEE

JAG REDDY has served as president and chief executive officer of Mayville Engineering Co. since 2022. In 2024, the company moved its corporate headquarters to Milwaukee. Before joining MEC, he was on the senior leadership team of W.R. Grace, overseeing the Maryland-based chemical business’s strategy and growth, and was the managing director of Advanced Refining Technologies LLC, Grace’s joint venture with Chevron. Before that, he held leadership roles at Pentair PLC and ITT Corp. Reddy currently serves on the boards of the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association and the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, India; MBA and master’s, Northwestern University; master’s, University of Tennessee

Frank Scholz

PRESIDENT AND CEO NORTHSTAR MEDICAL RADIOISOTOPES | BELOIT

FRANK SCHOLZ was appointed NorthStar Medical Radioisotopes’ president and CEO in June 2023. He has more than 25 years of global experience in the pharmaceutical and life sciences industries as well as in consulting. Scholz has held executive-level positions in general management, operations, quality, alliance management and merger integration. Before joining NorthStar, Scholz was a managing director with New York-based AlixPartners, chief operations officer and chief digital innovation officer at Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, and partner with New York-based McKinsey & Co. He has also served as a consultant at Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, Illinois since 2013.

EDUCATION: Master’s, Leibniz University of Hannover, Germany; MBA, Georgetown University; doctorate, University of Bielefeld, Germany

Steve Shafer

PRESIDENT AND CEO

A.O. SMITH CORP. | MILWAUKEE

STEVE SHAFER was named president and chief executive officer of A.O. Smith in July 2025. Shafer was also elected to A.O. Smith’s board of directors at the same time. He joined the company as president and chief operating officer in March 2024 to lead the company’s global business units, including operations, supply chain, corporate technology and information technology. Prior to becoming president and COO, Shafer served in a number of roles at 3M. Earlier in his career, he was a consultant at McKinsey & Co. and held operational roles at Ford Motor Co. and NASA. Shafer is a board member at WorkBoard Inc.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Northwestern University; master’s, Harvard University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Celebrating 150 years of innovation.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Agility. You need to be ready for change –both for your business and for yourself.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOU MENTOR: “A leader I worked with many times at a previous employer taught me how to use authenticity in style and approach to be a compelling and effective people leader.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “My role will change as the rest of the organization makes changes and A.O. Smith itself evolves. I see technology specifically being a big catalyst for change and more of my role will be to prepare our organization for those changes ahead.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “Pat Murphy, manager of the Milwaukee Brewers. Those guys look like they are having fun!”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Building LEGOs with my two young boys.”

DREAM CAR: “A 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W30 from the muscle car era. I co-owned one with my dad, and I hope to own one with him again.”

Sachin Shivaram

CEO

WISCONSIN ALUMINUM FOUNDRY | MANITOWOC

MILWAUKEE-NATIVE SACHIN SHIVARAM has served as chief executive officer of Wisconsin Aluminum Foundry, a manufacturer serving industries from medical devices to heavy equipment, since 2019. He is the first non-family CEO of the company in its 100-plus years of business and has helped grow the company through acquisitions and capital investments. Shivaram serves on the boards of GrafTech International, Broadwind Inc. and Lodge Cast Iron as well as the Governor’s Council on Workforce Investment, which he chairs. He is also co-chair of New North, the economic development agency for northeast Wisconsin, and a member of the Green Bay Packers board of directors.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Harvard University; master’s, University of Cambridge; J.D. Yale Law School

COMPANY SUCCESS OVER THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Over the past year, WAF has successfully launched production for a complex, safety-critical component in the medical device sector after a multi-year engineering and quality validation effort. At the same time, we completed the acquisitions of ATEK Metal Technologies and Anderson Global, expanding our casting and tooling capabilities, diversifying our customer base and opening new opportunities in high-growth markets.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “Each Monday, I have lunch with our newest employees – an unhurried chance to get to know them, hear their stories and learn first-hand what brought them to WAF. It’s a simple tradition that helps build trust from day one and keeps me connected to the team.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “In manufacturing, one of the biggest obstacles to career growth is bridging the gap between the skills people bring and the advanced technologies our industry now relies on. At WAF, I see talented employees every day whose potential is limited only by access to training and clear career paths. I’ve made it a priority to invest in upskilling, create mentorship opportunities and show younger workers that manufacturing offers rewarding, long-term careers.”

Arthur Starrs

PRESIDENT AND CEO

HARLEY-DAVIDSON INC. | MILWAUKEE

ARTHUR “ARTIE” STARRS is the newest president and CEO of Milwaukee-based motorcycle manufacturer Harley-Davidson. Starrs was appointed president and CEO in August 2025 and began his role in October. Harley has a global workforce of approximately 5,900 employees and reported an annual revenue of $5.5 billion in 2024, down 11% from the prior year. Starrs was previously the CEO of Topgolf International since 2021. Prior to joining Topgolf, he was the global chief executive officer of Pizza Hut, a global pizza restaurant chain and division of Yum! Brands, from 2019 until 2021. Before assuming the role of CEO, he held positions as president, general manager, chief financial officer, and vice president of finance at Pizza Hut. Starrs since 2023 has served on the board of directors of Dine Brands, the operator of Applebee’s, iHop and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Princeton University

Paul Sternlieb

PRESIDENT AND CEO

ENERPAC TOOL GROUP | MILWAUKEE

PAUL STERNLIEB has served as president and CEO of Enerpac Tool Group since 2021. Prior to joining Enerpac, Sternlieb served as executive vice president and president of protein at JBT Corp. and group president at Global Cooking Equipment. In the spring of 2025, Enerpac completed the relocation of its corporate headquarters from Menomonee Falls to downtown Milwaukee, occupying space in a building now known as the Enerpac Center. Sternlieb serves on the board of directors for Kennametal Inc., Children’s Wisconsin and the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce as well as the board of trustees for the Manufacturers Alliance.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, University of Pennsylvania

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “We have a thorough orientation process, global town hall meetings, leadership development training and education sessions so employees can learn about our products, customers and applications.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “A learning mindset, excellent listening skills, a strong sense of ownership and accountability, a deep connection with customers and employees and an agile approach (adapting quickly to a dynamic environment).”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I get energized by our innovation and new product development. We are creating exciting, differentiated solutions for our customers that help them solve real-world problems and address unmet needs. I would love to be a product manager or R&D engineer developing new products and technologies, especially now that we have invested in our state-of-the-art Innovation Lab at our new downtown Milwaukee headquarters.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “‘The Five Dysfunctions of a Team,’ by Patrick Lencioni.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “My espresso machine – it is WiFi enabled, allows for a variety of custom settings and keeps me well caffeinated!”

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Milwaukee

Kurt Voss

OWNER AND CEO

AMERILUX FAMILY OF COMPANIES | DE PERE

KURT VOSS is the owner and CEO of De Pere-based AmeriLux Family of Companies. Founded in 2004, AmeriLux operates as a manufacturer, distributor and provider of logistics, transportation and warehousing services. As owner and CEO since the company’s inception, Voss has overseen Amerilux’s growth, which includes the acquisition of EZ PVC in February 2022. The acquisition expanded the company’s footprint to include Nevada and Florida. Voss serves on the boards for several area organizations, including the Green Bay Packers, St. Norbert College, the Donald J. Schneider School of Business and Economics, and Medical College of Wisconsin-Green Bay. He previously chaired the board of the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation.

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “I am most proud of the team we have, and we continue to be a magnet for top talent and opportunities. Our teams have beat the odds in many of the markets we compete in, improved efficiency with acquisition, completed major expansion projects and vertically integrated to better gain control of our future.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “First and foremost, we’re all in the people business and leaders today need to demonstrate real emotion while building authentic relationships with all of their stakeholders. In addition, we can’t be afraid to fail!”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “When the rest of the marketplace is retracting, I see the biggest opportunities to expand our value proposition. Our culture is built on many things that go against human nature like defining conflict as a good thing and not judging people on their worst.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “I love to compete with myself and others, especially on the golf course.”

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; MBA, Edgewood College

Bob Wahlin PRESIDENT AND CEO STOUGHTON TRAILERS | STOUGHTON

BOB WAHLIN for the past 15 years has been the top executive of STI Holdings and its subsidiaries Stoughton Trailers, Stoughton Logistics, Stoughton Trucking, Stoughton Rental & Lease, Stoughton Trailers Acceptance Corp. and Stoughton Parts Sales. The companies total a combined $1 billion in annual revenue and roughly 2,000 employees. Stoughton Trailers, a family-owned company that started in 1961, is a leading manufacturer of dry van trailers and intermodal container chassis, with more than 1.5 million square feet of manufacturing space across nine facilities in south central Wisconsin and Waco, Texas. The company in September 2025 opened a new 53,000-square-foot corporate headquarters building in Stoughton. Wahlin serves on the boards of the Truck Trailer Manufacturers Association, Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce and Stoughton Trailers.

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Stoughton Trailers has nearly doubled our market share to record levels in a very challenging, post-COVID downturn in our industry. This has positioned us for continued investment in plant equipment as well as team member development, while our competition pauses.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Being able to position their team members in a way that best aligns with their individual strengths, capabilities and personality to maximize individual skillsets.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “I see spending more time and energy focusing on a wider range of opportunities beyond our core business. Within our business, I see greater development and need to further automation and continual advancement through AI.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Any outdoor activity I can enjoy with my three sons. This frequently includes skiing, hiking, fishing and hunting.”

FAVORITE PODCAST: “I enjoy listening to the ‘Joe Rogan Experience.’ I appreciate his open and honest dialogue on a very wide range of topics and viewpoints.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “There is nothing like cooking a good steak on the grill with potatoes and vegetables.”

Debra Waller

CHAIRMAN AND CEO

JOCKEY INTERNATIONAL | KENOSHA

DEBRA WALLER has led family-owned apparel company Jockey International Inc. since 2001 as chairman and chief executive officer. Waller joined the company in 1982 as an administrative assistant and the following year became merchandise manager of Jockey for Her. She went on to become a vice president, senior VP and executive VP before being named CEO, succeeding her mother Donna Wolf Steigerwaldt. Waller has served on the boards of directors of The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, Church Mutual Life Insurance Co., Marshall & Ilsley Bank and Carthage College. She was a founding member of the nowdissolved MargaretAnn’s Place, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing peer support groups and services for grieving children, teens, families and communities.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Carthage College

PRESIDENT

CARMA LABORATORIES INC. | FRANKLIN

AFTER 10 YEARS of teaching art, Paul Woelbing in 1992 joined Carma Laboratories, the maker of Carmex lip balm. His grandfather, Alfred Woelbing, started the company in 1937. Woelbing succeeded his father and now represents the third generation of family leadership alongside his co-owner and brother, Eric Woelbing. The company, which began as a small operation out of Alfred’s kitchen, has now grown internationally with products available in the United Kingdom. The company sells roughly 80 million units of its signature Carmex lip balm each year.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; master’s, Tyler School of Art & Architecture – Temple University

Joakim Weidemanis

CEO

JOHNSON CONTROLS | GLENDALE

JOAKIM WEIDEMANIS was named CEO of Johnson Controls in March of this year. The Ireland-based company has operational headquarters in Glendale and is a provider of building technology and systems and has annual revenue of about $23 billion. Weidemanis is a seasoned operator with experience in leading global technology-driven businesses. Prior to joining Johnson Controls, Weidemanis held several executive leadership roles during his 13-year career at Danaher Corp., based in Washington D.C. He most recently served as executive vice president of diagnostics and China for Danaher. Earlier in his career, he held executive positions at Mettler Toledo and ABB. Weidemanis was previously a board member of the ASSA ABLOY Group.

PRESIDENT, HUSCO AUTOMOTIVE HUSCO | WAUKESHA

TODD ZAKRESKI is president of Waukesha-based Husco Automotive, a manufacturer of hydraulic and electromechanical components. Zakreski joined Husco in 1998 as an engineering manager for agricultural products and served in a number of national and international roles before being named president in 2007. Zakreski has overseen the launches of Husco’s operations in Pune, India, and its two new sites in Shanghai, China. He currently chairs the Waukesha County Business Alliance Manufacturing Executive Council and was board chair of the Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership in 2024.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, New Jersey Institute of Technology; master’s, University of Rochester

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “Every new employee goes through an extensive onboarding process which includes a walk-through of our culture, values, etc. They also hear the Husco story directly from meeting with our CEO.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “It’s a super competitive industry, attracting exceptional talent in all areas of business. You have to be at the top of your game as you are typically competing against the best of the best for moving up the career ladder.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “To excel at their job, leaders need a strong sense of urgency, personal integrity, genuine interest in the employee’s safety and well-being, and they need to be comfortable with intelligent risk taking.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Not spending enough time in the weeds. You have to have some hours in there to really understand what’s going right, wrong, etc.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “Many years ago, as a young product design engineer, a manufacturing executive once told me to ‘stay in my lane’ ... I left six months later. That’s not me.”

EDUCATION: Master’s, Stockholm School of Economics

Paul Woelbing

Todd Zakreski

Valerie Hill

EDUCATION & NONPROFITS

education

82 Ah Yun, Kimo

82 Barnhouse, Rich

82 Baumgartner, Eric

82 Carter, Laurie

83 Cruz, Anthony

83 Gibson, Thomas

83 Gnadinger, Cindy

83 Merrifield, Layla

83 Mnookin, Jennifer

84 Rothman, Jay

84 Sullivan, Tim

nonprofits

84 Anton, Joanne

84 Bader, Daniel

85 Brennan, Joel

85 Censky, Ellen

86 Dirks, Jennifer

86 Eberle, Paul

86 Gore, Cecelia

86 Gosman, Michael

87 Graber, Richard

87 Grob, Most Rev. Jeffrey

88 Guti É rrez, Laura

88 Hallberg, Jackie

88 Lindner, Amy

89 Moe, Renee

90 Rosenzweig, Miryam

92 Scobey-Polacheck, Annemarie

92 Snell, Jeff

92 Turner, Christina

92 Wesley, Greg

nonprofits & Education | Education

Kimo Ah Yun PRESIDENT

MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY | MILWAUKEE

KIMO AH YUN was unanimously elected the 25th president of Marquette University by the Marquette board of trustees in November 2024. Ah Yun previously served in the dual roles of acting president and provost from June to November of 2024 following the death of former president Michael Lovell. Ah Yun is the first person of color to lead Marquette. He joined the university in 2016 as dean of the Diederich College of Communication, was named acting provost in 2018 and then permanent provost in 2019.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, California State University-Sacramento; master’s, Kansas State University; doctorate, Michigan State University

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “Find a quiet space where I can be alone and allow the noise of life to disappear. When I am able to slow down, be open to listening to what is happening inside, and reflect on where I want to go, I am often able to go beyond where I am to a better place.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Integrity, adaptability, and communication. To be a good leader you need to be trusted, have the capacity to change with the times, and tell a good story.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “Door County visit in October. The colors are beautiful, and the cherry pie is unbeatable.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “University presidents will increasingly need to make sure that they understand their purpose and to have the flexibility to allow the space for the campus to evolve. AI will help to ease some pressures while increasing others. Striking the right balance will be critical to success.”

Eric Baumgartner

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF ACADEMICS

Rich Barnhouse

PRESIDENT

WAUKESHA COUNTY TECHNICAL COLLEGE | PEWAUKEE

RICH BARNHOUSE has led Waukesha County Technical College since 2021. Under Barnhouse’s leadership, WCTC has expanded its offerings related to artificial intelligence, adding an applied AI lab to the campus and launching an AI Data Specialist associate degree program, the first two-year AI degree to be offered in Wisconsin. Before coming to WCTC, Barnhouse was vice president of student services and enrollment management at State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota. He also previously held various in-state roles, including associate vice chancellor for student affairs and enrollment management at the University of Wisconsin Colleges, dean of students at Moraine Park Technical College from 2007 to 2011, and assistant campus dean for administrative services at UW-Sheboygan from 2004 to 2007.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Brock University; master’s, Central Michigan University; doctorate, Cardinal Stritch University

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “The world around higher education has completely shifted, and higher education has been slow to respond or in some cases, hasn’t responded at all. To stay relevant, colleges need to be agile and flexible to meet the needs of the current and future workforce instead of riding on the coattails of past successes.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Knowing what to do when you don’t know what to do, and to always remember that if you’re the chief – no matter what industry or business you’re in – that you have to inspire the group around you.”

BEST AND WORST HABIT: “Best: A good morning routine. I’m up at 4 or 4:30 a.m., walk the dog, run, light breakfast, read and watch the financial channels. It gets me set up for the day and I feel informed before I come into work. Worst: Listening to music at a volume that is not good for my ears.”

MILWAUKEE SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING | MILWAUKEE

ERIC BAUMGARTNER has been MSOE’s executive vice president of academics since 2017. He will begin his role as the university’s next president on Jan. 1, 2026. Baumgartner was selected through a succession planning process by the Executive Committee of the MSOE Board of Regents and will be taking over for John Walz, who announced in June this year that he would retire and become MSOE’s president emeritus. Prior to his career in academia, Baumgartner spent 10 years at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Notre Dame; master’s, University of Cincinnati; doctorate, University of Notre Dame

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Higher education typically has limited opportunities for professional advancement for its faculty and staff. This is especially true in smaller institutions like MSOE. There are a limited number of leadership positions available, and individuals may stay in these positions for extended periods of time. Talented individuals may have to wait patiently until the right position opens up or be willing to move to another institution as opportunities arise.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “I have worked with an executive coach over the past decade and the biggest learning is to always assume positive intent. We should never make assumptions about the reasons for a person’s actions and behaviors until we understand their ‘why’.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Golf as well as biking to beer gardens in the summer.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “I have loved transforming my house into a ‘smart’ home (thermostat, lighting, speaker system, etc.).”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “New Glarus Brewing Company in New Glarus, Wisconsin, the home of Spotted Cow.”

LAWRENCE UNIVERSITY | APPLETON

LAURIE CARTER has led Lawrence University, a private liberal arts college in Appleton, since 2021. Under her leadership, the university has introduced a new business and entrepreneurship major, revised first-year studies courses, and constructed a building that features 30,000 square feet of new academic space atop the new Trout Museum of Art on College Avenue in Appleton. The top two floors of the building are market-rate apartments that bring revenue back to the university. Carter also serves as treasurer of the WAICU Executive Committee, program chair of the Annapolis Group board of directors, and is a board member of the ThedaCare North Region, the Fox Cities Chamber, the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center and The Links Incorporated.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, PennWest Clarion; master’s, William Paterson University of New Jersey; J.D., Rutgers University

Laurie Carter

PRESIDENT

Anthony Cruz PRESIDENT MILWAUKEE AREA TECHNICAL COLLEGE | MILWAUKEE

ANTHONY CRUZ began his tenure as president of Milwaukee Area Technical College in July 2024. Cruz is leading the launch of the college’s next five-year strategic plan and has spearheaded a partnership with the City of Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Bucks and J. Jeffers & Co. to provide the college with its first new athletic facility in decades. Previously, Cruz was president of the Kendall Campus of Miami Dade College in Florida, vice chancellor of student affairs at St. Louis Community College and vice president of enrollment management and student affairs at Sinclair Community College in Dayton, Ohio.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Florida International University; master’s, Florida State University; doctorate, Florida International University

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Higher education has entered a very turbulent era. As a college president, I see my role being more of a facilitator and a convener to address the socio-economic issues that our community faces. I’m a firm believer that MATC has to be a more significant contributor to the economic mobility of Milwaukee residents.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Most leaders don’t take enough time to listen to others. The more we listen, the better we understand how to help.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I would like to be the TV or radio broadcaster for the Milwaukee Brewers. I love talking about sports and sharing my insights with others.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Reduce political polarization and division in Milwaukee.”

PRESIDENT

CARROLL UNIVERSITY | WAUKESHA

CINDY GNADINGER became Carroll University’s 15th president in July 2017. Previously, Gnadinger worked at several higher education institutions including Bellarmine University in Kentucky, St. Catharine College in Kentucky, William Peace University in North Carolina, and at the University of Louisville. Currently, she serves on the boards of the United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County, the Association of Presbyterian Colleges and Universities, and on La Casa de Esperanza’s advisory board.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Western Kentucky University; master’s, University of Louisville; Ed.D., University of Louisville

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “We recently announced plans for several major construction projects, including plans to build a new school of business, engineering and technology. These plans were made possible thanks to our successful fundraising efforts which included a $10 million gift – the largest single gift ever received at Carroll. At a time when many higher education institutions are facing challenges with enrollments, this past fall we welcomed the largest class in our 180-year history. We have much to celebrate at Carroll.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “We are very transparent about our ethos at Carroll which is characterized by three tenets: respect, integrity and stewardship. We believe it is important to exemplify and live the ethos every day, at all levels of the university.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Leaders today must embrace change, be adaptable and lead their organizations with a strong vision for the future. This requires excellent communication and a willingness to empower their teams. I also believe a good sense of humor and a little humility is vitally important for successful leaders.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “I prune my flowers and plants.”

Thomas Gibson

CHANCELLOR

UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MILWAUKEE

MILWAUKEE

MILWAUKEE-NATIVE Thomas Gibson has served as chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee since July 2025. Prior to joining UWM, he served as chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point from 2021 to 2025, where he also served as professor of education. Gibson served as vice president for student affairs and vice provost at Bowling Green State University and has held leadership roles at Ball State University; York College and Queens College, both part of the City University of New York system; and the University of Connecticut at Stamford. He has taught courses on topics related to higher education administration, including student retention, and he currently serves as a faculty member of the AGB Institute for Leadership & Governance in Higher Education.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Eastern Connecticut State University; master’s, University of New Haven; Ed.D., Johnson & Wales University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “UWM maintained its R1 research university status for the fourth consecutive time. And we became one of only 32 universities in the nation recognized by the Carnegie Classifications of Institutions of Higher Education, not just for high research activity but also broad access to education and deep community engagement.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “The higher education sector is currently experiencing a watershed moment. Declining student enrollment and demographic shifts are causing significant financial pressures across colleges and universities. Institutional response often requires budget cuts, which affects hiring and promotion opportunities.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Homemade mac and cheese – no box!”

Layla Merrifield

PRESIDENT

WISCONSIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE SYSTEM | MADISON

LAYLA MERRIFIELD was appointed president of the Wisconsin Technical College System in September 2024. WTCS provides oversight for Wisconsin’s 16 public, two-year technical colleges spread out across 52 campuses statewide. Merrifield was previously executive director of the Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association, where she represented the trustees of the state’s tech colleges. Previously, she worked as a policy advisor for WTCS and as a fiscal analyst for the Wisconsin Legislative Fiscal Bureau. Merrifield also served as chair of the Community College Association Executives.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Hendrix College

Jennifer Mnookin

CHANCELLOR

UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON | MADISON

JENNIFER MNOOKIN has served as chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Madison since 2022. Mnookin is the 30th leader of the state’s flagship public university, which has nearly 48,000 students and employs over 26,000 faculty and staff. During her tenure, Mnookin launched Wisconsin RISE, an initiative to boost research and increase faculty hiring with the goal of addressing issues that affect Wisconsin and the world. Mnookin was previously dean of the School of Law and Ralph and Shirley Shapiro Professor of Law at the University of California, Los Angeles. A national expert on law, forensic science and evidence, Mnookin is also the founder and former faculty co-director of the Program on Undergraduate Law, Science and Evidence at UCLA.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Harvard University; J.D., Yale Law School; doctorate, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cindy Gnadinger

Jay Rothman PRESIDENT

UNIVERSITIES OF WISCONSIN | MADISON

JAY ROTHMAN has served as the ninth president of the Universities of Wisconsin, previously known as the University of Wisconsin System, since 2022. He has oversight of the system’s 13 universities across the state, which collectively serve about 164,600 students and 35,000 faculty and staff. He is also responsible for the UW system’s $6 billion annual budget. Prior to leading the UW system, Rothman was chairman and chief executive officer of Milwaukee-based Foley & Lardner LLP, one of the top 50 law firms in the country, based on revenue. Rothman serves on the boards of Quad and Mayville Engineering Co.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; J.D., Harvard Law School

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “About 36,000 students graduated from our universities this past year. We are changing the trajectory of lives all across Wisconsin while delivering the engineers, nurses, data scientists, teachers and other employees Wisconsin companies rely on.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Business leaders need to be able to build a successful culture.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOU MENTOR: “I have been fortunate to have had a number of mentors in my career. I think the single most important thing I learned from those mentors was to believe in myself and do the ‘right’ thing as opposed to the most expedient thing.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I’d be a high school guidance counselor, so I could better understand the barriers students face in accessing higher education and how to improve outreach and support.”

FAVORITE PODCAST: “‘Hidden Brain’ helps us understand how we think and act.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “I am embarrassed to say that if it can’t be put in a microwave, I don’t cook it.”

JoAnne Anton

PRESIDENT AND CEO

HERB KOHL PHILANTHROPIES | MILWAUKEE

MILWAUKEE-NATIVE JoAnne Anton spent three decades working closely with the late Herb Kohl. As president and CEO of Herb Kohl Philathropies, Anton helps guide the foundation’s direction and strategies. Anton began her career in local public service at Milwaukee’s City Hall. She later served on Kohl’s senate staff during his time in office and then transitioned to the foundation in 2014. Anton currently serves on the boards of the Greater Milwaukee Committee, First Federal Bank of Wisconsin, the Wisconsin State Fair Park Foundation, Milwaukee World Festival Inc., and the Board of Visitors of the UW-Madison LaFollette School of Public Affairs. She is a past president of Downtown Milwaukee Rotary and a member of Professional Dimensions.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; master’s, UW-Milwaukee COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “The last 12 months have been a period of transition since Senator Kohl’s passing. Our most significant success is found in honoring the senator’s legacy through impactful educational giving and our new focus on civic engagement and collaborative efforts like the Milwaukee Reading Coalition that is working to help all of Milwaukee’s K5 through third graders improve reading proficiency.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I would probably farm during harvest season and if that farm had bees and chickens I would be in heaven! There’s something deeply satisfying about seeing and touching the literal fruits of labor (and gathering eggs!); witnessing how vital bees are to our food supply; and being outdoors immersed in nature. It’s the kind backto-basics, physical but essential work that helps center the mind, body and spirit.”

Tim Sullivan

DEAN,

SULLIVAN SCHOOL OF BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY CARROLL UNIVERSITY | WAUKESHA

TIM SULLIVAN held several high-profile positions in the private sector before transitioning to his current role as dean of the Sullivan School of Business & Technology at Carroll University.

As chief executive officer of Bucyrus, Sullivan helped grow the South Milwaukee-based mining equipment maker into a company with nearly $4 billion in annual revenue before its sale to Caterpillar in 2011. Under his leadership, Bucyrus had one of the top-performing initial public offerings in the U.S. in 2004 and ranked among the fastest-growing companies in the country. He retired from Bucyrus after completing the company’s sale to Caterpillar and growing shareholder value by more than 1,500% between 2004 and 2010.

Sullivan later became chairman and CEO of Gardner Denver Inc., a manufacturer of oil and gas, industrial, and medical equipment. Later, he was president and CEO of REV Group, a manufacturer of specialty vehicles. Both Gardner Denver and REV Group moved their headquarters to Milwaukee while they were led by Sullivan.

He also spent time as an advisor to CCMP, a New York-based private equity firm. Sullivan served as a special consultant to former Gov. Scott Walker and chaired the Wisconsin Governor’s Council on Workforce Investment and the Wisconsin Governor’s College and Workforce Readiness Council.

As dean of Carroll’s business school since 2023, he builds relationships with business community partners and serves as a spokesperson for its programs. A Carroll alumnus, Sullivan is a former trustee of the university. He has served on many local nonprofit and corporate boards and currently chairs the board of St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care in Milwaukee. Sullivan is also current chairman of BitFire Inc. and Bandit Productions of Phoenix, Arizona.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Carroll University; MBA, Arizona State University

Daniel Bader

PRESIDENT AND CEO

BADER PHILANTHROPIES | MILWAUKEE

DANIEL BADER has led Milwaukee-based Bader Philanthropies since 1992. In that time, Bader Philathropies has distributed $548 million among nearly 11,000 grants and program-related investments. In 2018, the foundation moved its headquarters from the Historic Third Ward to Dr. Martin Luther King Drive in Milwaukee’s Harambee neighborhood. Bader has overseen the creation of the Generation Growth Capital fund in 2008, which merges financial and social returns, and the establishment of the Bader Leadership Institute in 2024, aimed at nurturing Milwaukee’s community leaders. Bader serves on numerous boards and committees including the Rogers Behavioral Health Foundation and Relief International, where he is a director emeritus.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Rochester Institute of Technology

Joel Brennan PRESIDENT

GREAT MILWAUKEE COMMITTEE | MILWAUKEE

MILWAUKEE-NATIVE

Joel Brennan is president of the Greater Milwaukee Committee, a privatesector civic organization composed of leaders in business, education, philanthropy and the nonprofit community. Prior to joining GMC, he served as secretary of the Department of Administration under Gov. Tony Evers, where he led the agency of nearly 1,500 employees. Previously, Brennan was president and chief executive officer of Discovery World for nearly 12 years, head of Milwaukee’s Redevelopment Authority and vice president of development and government affairs for the Greater Milwaukee Convention & Visitors Bureau, now Visit Milwaukee.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; master’s, University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy

YOUR ORGANIZATION’S MOST SIGNIFICANT SUCCESS OVER THE LAST YEAR: “During challenging times in education in Milwaukee, we have helped the new MPS superintendent get off to a strong start and begin to make necessary changes to create better outcomes for kids in schools. By raising money, connecting her to the community and bringing disparate voices together, we have been able to set the stage for improved outcomes and stronger futures for kids in Milwaukee.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “The qualities I value most are honesty, transparency and courage. For organizations to be successful, I believe leaders also need to display and portray humility, even if we have far too few examples of that in the world today.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “Al McGuire once said everyone ought to drive a cab for six months. Since we have pretty much done away with cabs, I would go with being an Uber or Lyft driver. This would be a great way to connect with the diverse and rich Milwaukee community and to learn at the ground level what our community wants and needs.”

Ellen Censky

PRESIDENT AND CEO

MILWAUKEE PUBLIC MUSEUM | MILWAUKEE

CEDARBURG-NATIVE Ellen Censky launched her career at the Milwaukee Public Museum in 1977 and went on to work for museums across the country before returning to MPM in 2008 as senior vice president and academic dean. In 2018, she was named president and CEO, assuming leadership of MPM as it was in the process of planning its new home. Now, Censky is responsible for overseeing the museum’s move to a new site at Sixth and McKinley streets in the city’s Haymarket neighborhood, just north of downtown. Construction began in the spring of 2024, with the new museum expected to open in 2027.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Milwaukee; Ph.D., University of Pittsburgh COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Planning for the new museum has been underway since 2015. Over the past 12 months, we’ve made remarkable progress from pile driving to topping off the structure. The building has been enclosed with precast panels, and we remain on track for our grand opening in 2027.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “Lead by example. For me this starts with listening, valuing each person’s perspective and creating space for open, respectful dialogue.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “In today’s fast-paced, unpredictable world, the most effective leaders are not just visionaries, they are resilient and adaptable. These qualities have become indispensable as organizations navigate constant change, global disruptions, and evolving workforce expectations.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “In a few years, the focus of the role will shift from overseeing the museum’s construction and exhibit development, while continuing the oversight of day-to-day operations in the current facility, to leading the new facility’s day-to-day operations and operationalizing the new spaces, while building community engagement.”

CONGRATULATIONS

6th President of MSOE Milwaukee School of Engineering continues to advance its strategic vision of national leadership in applied artificial intelligence (AI) education under the leadership of Dr. Eric Baumgartner.

msoe.edu/ai-and-msoe

Jennifer Dirks PRESIDENT AND CEO

TEMPO | MILWAUKEE

SINCE 2014, Jennifer Dirks has served as the first president and CEO of TEMPO, an organization of more than 800 female CEOs, executives and leaders. She is responsible for the development, implementation and execution of the organization’s strategic direction. Prior to joining TEMPO, Dirks worked at Clifton Gunderson, now CliftonLarsonAllen, as well as Bader Rutter and Zeppos & Associates. She also spent more than a decade as a television news reporter and producer in various newsrooms across the Midwest. In addition to TEMPO, Dirks serves as an adjunct instructor for Marquette University, board chair at PEARLS for Teen Girls and board member of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Marquette University’s Institute for Women’s Leadership.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Illinois State University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “This is a milestone year for TEMPO as our organization celebrates our 50-year anniversary. In the past year, my most significant success has been expanding TEMPO’s impact and influence across the community. We achieved record membership growth, deepened our Emerging Women Leaders program and advanced strategic partnerships that elevate women leaders in Milwaukee and across Wisconsin. Perhaps most importantly, we positioned TEMPO as the leading voice for advancing women in leadership at a time when representation is critical.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Adaptability, authenticity, and vision. The best leaders today must navigate constant change, lead with transparency, and inspire others toward a common purpose. They must also cultivate empathy, particularly in a time when teams are balancing both professional demands and personal well-being. For women leaders, resilience and influence are equally critical.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “My mother’s recipe for beef curry - magical!”

Cecelia Gore EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BREWERS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION | MILWAUKEE

MILWAUKEE-NATIVE Cecelia Gore has served as the executive director of the Brewers Community Foundation since 2009. Prior to joining the organization, Gore served as program director at the Jane Bradley Pettit Foundation. Gore is a member of the Greater Milwaukee Foundation board and serves as a co-chair for the foundation’s Greater Together Campaign, which raised a record $726.8 million to support the organization’s mission of racial equity and inclusion. She is also on the board of directors at Milwaukee-based construction company CG Schmidt.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Alverno College; master’s, Alverno College

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “The Milwaukee Brewers do a very good job of highlighting their mission, vision and cultural outlook. Every day, we have an opportunity to immerse ourselves in a culture of treating our fans and other stakeholders well, along with winning!”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “I believe a successful business leader must be a strategic thinker, have the ability to be flexible, listen, and ultimately regard/ engage as many people as possible. These qualities will provide opportunities to craft positive outcomes.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “The role I am in will require responding to various community needs in a timely manner. Fortunately, our unrestricted funding has been part of our tradition, but I believe it will be increasingly needed given the challenges facing our partners. The role will continue to require trust-based philanthropy in response to real-time issues that arise.”

BEST AND WORST HABIT: “My best habit is that I have the ability to be consistent. My worst habit: my husband would have to answer that.”

Paul Eberle CEO

CATHOLIC CHARITIES | ST. FRANCIS

FOLLOWING OVER three decades in business and law firm leadership, Paul Eberle was appointed CEO of social services agency Catholic Charities in June. His appointment by Archbishop Jeffery Grob was the outcome of a multi-phase recruitment process by the Catholic Charities board and marks a structural change for the organization, having been led previously by a diocesan priest, or vicar. Eberle retired from his most recent role as CEO of law firm Husch Blackwell in January 2024 after serving as chief executive for both it and predecessor firm Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, College of the Holy Cross COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “For the past 12 months, and for the 100-plus years before that, we have been providing real help and hope to people in need, upholding human dignity with care and compassion.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “We are a lean staff, so new employees tend to jump right into the work.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “I am hopeful that Catholic Charities will grow, thanks to the support of our donors, to allow us to do more of the good work we are doing.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “All of us need to appreciate that improving the lives of those around us makes our community better.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Underinvesting in their people.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “I’m not a big fan of most ‘comment’ sections - they seem mean-spirited and uninformed most of the time.”

Michael Gosman

PRESIDENT AND CEO

ACTS HOUSING | MILWAUKEE

MILWAUKEE-NATIVE Michael Gosman serves as president and CEO of Milwaukee-based nonprofit Acts Housing. Gosman joined the organization in 2013 after volunteering for years while serving as an attorney at Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C. In addition to serving as president and CEO, Gosman is the founder and CEO of Acts Lending, Acts Housing’s mortgage lending partner, which lends funds to families who do not meet traditional bank underwriting guidelines for borrowing money to buy a home. He also spearheaded the launch of Acts Homes in 2022, a $10 million revolving fund to convert investor properties into homeownership opportunities, and led the organization’s first expansion outside of Milwaukee, to Beloit.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Indiana University Bloomington; J.D., University of Chicago Law School

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “We completed a 30-year analysis of our program impacts and learned that our alumni families now have $143 million in equity in their homes.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “The work we do is hard and when it seems like the marketplace doesn’t value the families you are serving it can be easy to get disheartened. The most successful staff find deep meaning in their work and are so dissatisfied with the status quo that they advocate for new approaches to make the work more sustainable and successful.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “John Beagle, chairman of Grace Mathews and chair of the Acts Housing board of directors, is brilliant strategically and even better at building relationships. On my best days, I effectively channel his wisdom.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “With a strong executive leadership team in place I am focusing much more of my attention on what’s next: how we share our approach to homeownership with more families and communities who are desperate for an affordable housing strategy that is sustainable.”

Lila Aryan

Richard Graber

PRESIDENT AND CEO

THE LYNDE AND HARRY BRADLEY FOUNDATION | MILWAUKEE

RICHARD GRABER is president and chief executive officer of The Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation, a Milwaukeebased grantmaking institution that has made more than 15,000 grants totaling more than $1 billion to roughly 2,000 organizations since its inception in 1985. Graber has led the foundation since 2016 and has served on its board of directors since 2014. Prior to joining the foundation, Graber was senior vice president of global government relations for Honeywell. He also served as the U.S. ambassador to the Czech Republic from 2006 to 2009 under President George W. Bush and managed a 280-person embassy. Before that, he was president and CEO of Milwaukee-based law firm Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren. Graber serves on the board of directors of The Kern Family Foundation and Curt Joa Inc. and as chairman of the Philanthropy Roundtable board.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Duke University; J.D., Boston University Law School

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “The Bradley Foundation is a grant-making organization. As such, we derive our success through the work of our grantees. In Wisconsin, we provide support to many amazing organizations that work every day to improve the lives of fellow citizens. These organizations are the true unsung heroes of our community.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Self-aware, effective communicator, fosters teamwork and makes people better.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “It’s really important to listen – many forget to do that.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “‘Churchill: Walking with Destiny’ by Andrew Roberts.”

BEST AND WORST HABIT: “I’m organized to a fault. It can sometimes hurt creativity.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “A better tax climate. Close runner-up: an even more robust parental school choice program.”

Most Rev. Jeffrey Grob ARCHBISHOP ARCHDIOCESE OF MILWAUKEE | MILWAUKEE

THE MOST REV. JEFFREY GROB was named archbishop of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee in November 2024 and was installed in January 2025. As archbishop, Grob oversees all parishes and schools within the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, an ecclesiastical territory that covers 10 southeastern Wisconsin counites, comprises roughly 190 parishes and is responsible for the spiritual care of about 530,000 registered Catholics. Grob was ordained to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Chicago in 1992 and served in many roles throughout his 32 years there. He also served as a judge with the court of appeals of the Province of Chicago and later as judicial vicar of the archdiocese for two stints. The late Pope Francis appointed Grob as an auxiliary bishop of Chicago in September 2020, and he was later ordained to the episcopacy in November.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Pontifical College Josephinum; licentiate in sacred theology, St. Mary of the Lake, Mundelein Seminary; licentiate and doctorate in canon law, St. Paul University – Ottawa, Canada; Ph.D., University of Ottawa

Jackie Hallberg PRESIDENT AND CEO

GOODWILL GREATER MILWAUKEE & CHICAGO | MILWAUKEE

JACKIE HALLBERG has spent over three decades with Goodwill Greater Milwaukee & Chicago and has led the organization since 2013. The Milwaukeebased branch of Goodwill Industries spans a 23-county territory in Wisconsin and Illinois and includes 87 Goodwill stores and donation centers. In 2024, the organization reported that it served 21,000 people through its programs and services.

In previous years, the organization has grown in both Wisconsin and Illinois through the opening of new stores and donation centers in Burbank, Illinois; Mukwonago and Hartford as well as outlet thrift stores in Milwaukee and Romeoville, Illinois.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Stevens Point; master’s, UW-Milwaukee

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “We encourage new employees to join our immersion program, working across departments to understand our mission, build empathy and strengthen connections, reinforcing our shared commitment to Goodwill’s impact and the communities we serve.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “For me, successful leaders focus on connection. They prioritize listening to their employees and look to foster collaboration within their teams and throughout their community.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “I had the privilege of working for John L. Miller, who served our Goodwill for 37 years and was our CEO for 32 years. John had a deep love for Goodwill’s mission and emphasized the importance of growing our retail social enterprise to advance our mission.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “As the needs of our community change, it is more important than ever to focus on collaboration and collective impact. I truly believe we’re stronger when we come together. I see my role over the coming years really focusing on making sure Goodwill brings the right people to the table, listens with intention and builds solutions that reflect what our communities need to thrive.”

Laura Guti É rrez CEO

UNITED COMMUNITY CENTER | MILWAUKEE

LAURA GUTIÉRREZ is the chief executive officer of the United Community Center. UCC provides services and programming for residents on Milwaukee’s south side and operates Bruce Guadalupe Community School. Prior to joining the UCC, Gutiérrez was assistant principal and director of instruction at Bruce Guadalupe. She also served as secretary of the state of Wisconsin’s Department of Safety and Professional Services, overseeing a staff of more than 250 and managing a biennial budget of $100 million. She serves on the board of the Johnson Foundation at Wingspread and is a member of Milwaukee Women Inc.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Carroll University; master’s, Marquette University

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Executive-level roles in nonprofits are limited. It’s important to develop leaders at every level and prepare them with the skills, confidence and vision to lead when opportunities arise.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “A clear vision, the courage to take calculated risks, strong financial and management skills, and most importantly, the ability to inspire and grow future leaders.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “From Ricardo Diaz, I learned the importance of building with community at the center. From Dora Acosta, I learned positivity and high standards. From my mom, I learned to focus on what I can control and lead with resilience.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “With reductions in state and federal funding, sustaining financial stability will be critical. My role will center on doing more with less while ensuring our community continues to move forward.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “I walk the UCC campus. Seeing our employees in action and connecting with clients reminds me of our mission and recenters me on why this work matters.”

Amy Lindner

PRESIDENT AND CEO

UNITED WAY OF GREATER MILWAUKEE & WAUKESHA COUNTY | MILWAUKEE

AMY LINDNER leads the Milwaukee-based nonprofit United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County. Under Lindner’s leadership, United Way has raised more than $350 million for the community since 2018, with initiatives focused on ending family homelessness, reducing barriers to employment and advancement, ensuring digital equity and improving mental wellness among teens. Previously, Lindner served as the president and CEO of Meta House, a Milwaukee-based nonprofit and partner of United Way, and she was partner at Milwaukee-based law firm Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; J.D., University of Notre Dame

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “We are part way through launching our biggestever change in how we fund the community. We’re going big to allow us to provide needlemoving solutions in employment, housing, the digital divide and teen mental wellness in our four-county footprint.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “These feel timeless to me, but I’d say moral clarity, respect for your team, and a demonstrated understanding that we all exist as part of a larger community.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “Is ‘French fry taster’ a job?”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “Thank goodness for good teams. Every single person on my team (and board!) is smarter than me at something, and it’s such a blessing to get to partner with all of them on important issues.”

BEST AND WORST HABIT: “I’m a few years into maintaining a varied and regular exercise routine. It’s so good for my physical health and even better for my mental health. As for worst, I’m perhaps a little overly fond of adding to my wardrobe.”

Renee Moe

PRESIDENT AND CEO

UNITED WAY OF DANE COUNTY | MADISON

RENEE MOE has served as president and CEO of United Way of Dane County since 2016. The organization unites a coalition of local nonprofits, businesses, community leaders, families, volunteers and donors across Dane County. Moe joined the organization in 1998 as a marketing specialist. In her more than 25 years with United Way, Moe has held several positions including campaign and marketing director and executive vice president of resource development and marketing. As CEO, Moe oversees a staff of 67.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, UW-Madison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “The Dan and Patti Rashke Family Foundation has committed a ten-year gift which will cover the administrative costs of United Way of Dane County and encourage more people to give and make positive community change! Their gift will total $10 million to $15 million, the largest individual gift ever made to United Way of Dane County.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “In the nonprofit sector, one of the biggest challenges to career growth is compensation. Our field attracts incredibly talented, passionate and mission-driven people, and their skills are often in high demand across other industries. When the power of purpose isn’t enough to outweigh financial realities, some staff understandably pursue higher-paying opportunities. Another obstacle is that nonprofits often have lean leadership structures, which can limit the number of traditional ‘next steps’ available.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Integrity, collaboration, being nimble/ innovative, communicating effectively and understanding how to achieve results in volatility.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “‘Breath’ by James Nestor; ‘Dreamland’ by Sam Quinones; ‘Crucial Conversations’ by Patterson, Grenny, McMillan, Switzler; ‘The Practitioner’s Guide to Governance as Leadership’ by Trower; ‘The Speed of Trust’ by Stephen M.R. Covey.”

nonprofits & Education | Nonprofits

Miryam Rosenzweig

PRESIDENT AND CEO

MILWAUKEE JEWISH FEDERATION | MILWAUKEE

MIRYAM ROSENZWEIG has been president and CEO of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation since 2019. In her time as president and CEO, Rosenzweig has overseen the organization’s growth, stability and impact amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, a rise in antisemitism, security threats and the impact of the war in Gaza on Wisconsin’s Jewish community. Rosenzweig has spent her entire career as a Jewish communal professional in local, national and international organizations. Prior to becoming CEO, she was the chief development officer at the Jewish Federation of Detroit, head of development initiatives at World ORT and associate director of national young leadership at the Jewish Federations of North America.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, Yeshiva University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “We preserved what matters most: safe access to Jewish learning, celebration, and community. This year we launched the Wisconsin Jewish Security Network, a security LLC supported by the Milwaukee Jewish Federation. WJSN centralizes training, security staffing, monitoring and protocols for Jewish institutions statewide. The shared model sets higher standards, increases efficiency and strengthens protection, while reducing communal security costs by about 30%.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Staying grounded. We are living in a polarized time, so I listen with empathy, understand what is driving the urgency of the moment, then make informed decisions with facts and judgment. I set our priorities clearly: first, the safety and security of the Jewish community; second, access to meaningful and positive Jewish experiences; third, staying grounded so we can deliver on the first two.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “I have lived here for six years, and I did not expect Lake Michigan to become so central to my life. The closeness to the lake is a daily privilege, not just a summer swim.”

Congratulations, Renee Moe!

The Dan & Patti Rashke (TASC) Family Foundation congratulates Renee Moe, President & CEO of United Way of Dane County, on being named one of Wisconsin’s Top 275 Most Influential Executives by BizTimes Milwaukee

As long-time supporters of United Way of Dane County, we’ve had a front-row seat to the organization’s lasting impact on our community. Its collaborative, strategic, and innovative approach to addressing the region’s most pressing challenges reflects our own philanthropic mission – and, most importantly, it’s working.

We’re honored to stand alongside United Way of Dane County in building a stronger, more resilient community and extend our warmest congratulations to Renee on this well-earned recognition.

D an & Patti Rashke Fa m ily F oundatio n

Annemarie Scobey-Polacheck

PRESIDENT AND

CEO

UNITED PERFORMING ARTS FUND | MILWAUKEE

ANNEMARIE SCOBEY-POLACHECK was appointed president and CEO of the United Performing Arts Fund in July 2024. UPAF raises funds to support 14 Milwaukee-area performing arts organizations. Previously, Scobey-Polacheck spent nearly 20 years in various roles at Johnson Controls including director of corporate philanthropy and director of corporate programs, diversity and public affairs. For more than 20 years before that, she was a parenting columnist for the Catholic Herald newspaper and is the author of “Discovering Motherhood: An Extraordinary Journey through Everyday Life.”

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “UPAF is one of the three largest united funds for the arts in the nation. In 2025, UPAF raised $9.1 million for our 14 nonprofit member organizations and many affiliate organizations. UPAF is the largest annual donor to all 14 of our member groups.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “Pablo Picasso said, ‘The arts wash from our souls the dust of everyday life.’ At UPAF, we highlight to new employees that we are all working for something much larger than ourselves.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “I believe that strong leaders are able to hold onto the vision or the ‘why’ of their organization as they move through their day. This strong sense of purpose allows them to ask the necessary questions to problem solve. Strong leaders are good listeners and are able to identify wisdom and insight when they hear it. All of this allows for deeper collaboration and connection with others.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “My husband and I have four young adult children, and we love hiking, playing pickleball, going to dinner and playing board games with them! It is a joy to have a front-row seat to the people they are becoming.”

Christina Turner EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TROUT MUSEUM OF ART | APPLETON

CHRISTINA TURNER has been the executive director of Appleton’s Trout Museum of Art since 2018. Turner has over 30 years of experience in the art industry. Previously, she was director of fine arts for St. Mary Catholic Schools in Neenah. Most notably, Turner oversaw the Trout Museum’s relocation to a 30,000-square-foot space on the ground floor of a new four-story building in downtown Appleton.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; bachelor’s and master’s, California College of the Arts; master’s, University of San Diego

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “After 65 years, the Trout Museum of Art opened the doors to its brand-new home in the heart of downtown Appleton. Designed for exhibitions, education and engagement, the new museum will be a destination for art lovers, learners and creators.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLES: “There are not that many art museums.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Business leaders need to be open to change, listen well and be great at setting a strategic vision that others want to follow.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “John Bergstrom: Ask people, especially your staff, ‘How can I help you today?’”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Our goal is to become a prominent art museum in Wisconsin that attracts visitors from Milwaukee, Madison and Chicago.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “My phone, watch and computer combined make me mobile, so I can see and talk to people from anywhere and still be connected to our staff.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “I love to boat. The lakes and rivers make Wisconsin, Wisconsin.”

Jeff Snell CEO

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF GREATER MILWAUKEE | MILWAUKEE

JEFF SNELL is a returning chief executive officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee. Snell was reappointed as BGCGM’s CEO in December 2024 after serving as its interim CEO for several months prior. Snell previously served as CEO of the organization from 1997 to 2004 before leaving and spending the following 20 years in a number of executive and teaching roles at organizations including Argosy Foundation, Marquette University and UW-Madison. In 2014, Snell founded Midwest Social Innovation, a Madison-based executive education program. He also co-founded Marell Development in 2022, a residential renovation and development company servicing the Madison area.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, North Central University; master’s, Gordon-Conwell Seminary; Ph.D., Marquette University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “A renewed commitment to quality after achieving a high level of average attendance – roughly 3,200 children per day at 49 sites –as reflected in a significant reorganization and strategic planning process.”

THE MOST IMPORTANT QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Competence coupled with transparency, humility, vulnerability, and an ability to have tough conversations with grace and empathy.”

ONE THING YOU WOULD CHANGE ABOUT WISCONSIN TO MAKE IT BETTER: “Require 3rd and 8th grade reading proficiency for grade promotion/graduation, coupled with 1) requiring all teachers to have certification in teaching kids how to read, and 2) holding parents accountable for elementary- and middle-school habitual truancy.”

YOUR GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Fresh pasta--just about everyone loves it and they can help make it.”

MOVIE YOU REWATCH THE MOST: “Tied between ‘Shawshank Redemption’ and ‘Old School.’”

Greg Wesley

PRESIDENT AND CEO

GREATER MILWAUKEE FOUNDATION | MILWAUKEE

GREG WESLEY became president and CEO of the Greater Milwaukee Foundation in August 2024. Wesley has served as co-chair of the ThriveOn Collaboration, a joint project among the GMF, Medical College of Wisconsin and development firm Royal Capital. For eight years, he was senior vice president of strategic alliances and business development – and later added the role of interim general counsel – at the Medical College. Wesley currently serves on the boards of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee as immediate past chair, Teach for America Milwaukee as chair, the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, the Greater Milwaukee Committee, Black Arts Fest MKE, Milwaukee World Festival Inc., Trust for Professional Managers, MHS Health Wisconsin and Versiti Inc.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Indiana University-Bloomington; J.D., University of WisconsinMadison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “The most significant advancement for our institution in the past year has been moving our corporate offices to our new location in the ThriveOn King building and the subsequent public opening of that historic redevelopment as a community hub. While the GMF’s community-centered collaboration with the Medical College of Wisconsin and Royal Capital began years earlier, we are seeing the fruits of that labor today as people connect, engage and work toward new solutions that are leading to a healthier, thriving Milwaukee.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Successful business leaders need a vision for where they want to lead an organization. They must have the ability to adapt to current times. They should have listening skills to identify areas of commonality amongst different constituents and advance common goals. They also benefit from an ability to promote, model and drive collaboration within and with the organization and produce good results.”

MOST REWATCHED MOVIE: “I tend to revisit Martin Scorsese films more frequently than others.”

OTHER LEADING INDUSTRIES

Agriculture

94 Mayer, Shelly

94 Olson, Brad

94 Vincent, Chad

Economic Development

94 Bauer, Kurt

95 Gries, Rebecca

95 Habeck, Patti

95 Kooyenga, Dale

96 Reinbold, Deb

96 Ryf, Nicole

96 Trick, Jenny

retail

97 Hasting, Mark

97 Kent, Jennie

97 McLean, Andrew

97 Pugliese, Stephanie

98 Schaefer, John

98 Steinhafel, Andrew

98 Zietlow, Scott

Shelly Mayer EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

PROFESSIONAL DAIRY PRODUCERS

OF WISCONSIN |

JUNEAU

SHELLY MAYER is the executive director of the Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin, the largest dairy producer-led, educational-based organization in the country. The organization has led national efforts to promote dairy animal wellbeing and food safety. Previously, Mayer served on the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection board of directors, and on the UW-Madison College of Agriculture and Life Science board of visitors. She has also served on the Center for Food Integrity Executive Committee since 2008. Outside of work, Mayer and her husband continue to manage a herd of Holsteins and Brown Swiss cows on their dairy farm near Slinger.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Wisconsin-Madison

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Time. Farmers are among the most hardworking professionals in any sector, and their days are already filled to capacity. The pace of change in our industry has never been faster, requiring them to adapt, innovate, and master new skills on an almost daily basis. Balancing these evolving demands with the ongoing pressures of running their businesses and managing their lives is one of the greatest challenges they face.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “What our producers need for educational support aligns with the trends of the dairy community, and so our programming is new and built from the ground up each year. We coordinate over 200 days of outreach and hundreds of speakers/trainers and industry experts. Our team must work efficiently.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “Live with balance... I work all the time because our work is meaningful, impactful and it is for the people we serve. You only move forward when you lean forward and run a little out of balance. I live and serve passionately.”

Chad Vincent CEO

DAIRY FARMERS OF WISCONSIN | MADISON

CHAD VINCENT is the CEO at Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, leading efforts to build demand and awareness for Wisconsin’s $50 billion dairy agriculture business. Previously, Vincent was chief marketing officer and senior vice president of strategic development at Plymouth-based Sartori Cheese. Prior to that, Vincent was a managing director at H.J. Heinz in Pittsburgh, president of the Asia-Pacific region at Miller Brewing Co. and division president and global chief marketing officer at Fiskars Brands. Recently, Vincent was named board chair of the Wisconsin Agriculture Export Committee and named to the USDA Agricultural Trade Committee.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, Michigan State University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “The continued increase in sales and perception of Wisconsin cheese is one of our organization’s biggest success stories. Wisconsin cheese is now perceived to be at parity with or above cheese produced in Italy and France, and Wisconsin cheeses have won more awards worldwide than any other state or country. Sales are astounding with Wisconsin outpacing the national average by three times.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “Culture is our secret sauce. Culture induction starts at the interview process. I interview all finalists, and the entire conversation is about our culture, fit and what to expect when you join our team.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Humility and interpersonal ‘smarts’ to me are the foundational qualities of successful leaders. Park your ego at the door and put others’ needs before your own.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “I am in the middle of an executive AI course at UW. I envision a significant portion of my role will be leading the changing technological landscape. AI is an incredibly powerful tool, and we plan to be at the forefront of applying it at Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.”

Brad Olson PRESIDENT

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION | MADISON

THIRD-GENERATION FARMER Brad Olson was elected president of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation in late 2023. With more than 47,000 members, WFBF is the state’s largest general farm organization and is made up of 61 county farm bureaus. Olson was first elected to the WFBF board of directors in 2022 to represent District 9, which includes counties in the northwestern part of the state. Olson, his wife, Vicky, and two children farm more than 600 acres of crops near Frederic in Polk County. Olson purchased his family’s dairy farm in 1992 and transitioned from dairy cows to crops in 2022. In January 2025, Olson was elected to serve a one-year term on the American Farm Bureau board of directors. He also serves on the Polk County Board of Supervisors.

Kurt Bauer

PRESIDENT AND CEO

WISCONSIN MANUFACTURERS & COMMERCE | MADISON

KURT BAUER has led Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, the state’s largest business association, since 2011. WMC represents 3,800 employers of all sizes and from all economic sectors. Prior to joining WMC, Bauer spent 18 years working for financial industry trade groups, including as CEO for the Wisconsin and Arizona bankers associations. He is a past chair of the Council of State Manufacturers Associations and the current vice chair of the National Association of State Chambers.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “They say culture eats strategy for breakfast. I agree, which is why I emphasize that it is everyone’s responsibility to police the culture at WMC.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “I have learned a lot about leadership throughout my career, from both trial and error. I don’t have the space to share it all, but in summary, I would say having a vision, a strong work ethic and self-awareness to know when to seek help.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Not understanding how much policies made in Washington and Madison can affect the way they can and can’t run their business, and not pushing back.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “This is a hard question for the head of the state chamber of commerce to answer, but my family loves Door County, the south shore of Lake Superior and the Hayward Lakes part of the Northwoods.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Eliminate Wisconsin’s highest 7.65% personal income tax bracket. It would be a welcome relief to small businesses who pay that rate as pass-through entities and it would help attract more people to the state, which we desperately need.”

Patti Habeck

PRESIDENT AND

CEO

NEW NORTH | GREEN BAY

AFTER 14 YEARS serving in leadership roles at Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin, Patti Habeck has assumed the role of president and chief executive officer at New North Inc., Green Bay’s economic development organization. Habeck began her role on Dec. 1, succeeding Barb LaMue. Prior to her role at Feeding America, Habeck served as community engagement officer at the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region and director of education at the Building for Kids Children’s Museum. Habeck is on the leadership council for FaB Wisconsin and serves on several boards including the Rotary Club of Milwaukee and the Department of Ag, Trade and Consumer Protection.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Eau Claire; master’s, UW-Platteville

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Since I am sunsetting my 14 years with Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin and taking on the role of CEO of New North, my job will significantly change! I look forward to this immense challenge and opportunity.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I’d enjoy changing jobs for a month (no longer!) with the governor. I would appreciate understanding how Wisconsin operates from that seat – intersecting all the sectors – business, education, nonprofit, etc. I would appreciate that perspective.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “I’m excited about blockchain (for transparency) and generative AI.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Anything savory – particularly Korean or Italian foods.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Access! More direct flights to places. More rail to connect the cities. More opportunities for ‘big city’ things. The one thing I would change is to make the stereotype of Wisconsin more ‘cool’ to the next generation.”

Rebecca Gries

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT CORPORATE ATTRACTION AND EXPANSION

MILWAUKEE 7 | MILWAUKEE

REBECCA GRIES has served as executive director and senior vice president for the Milwaukee 7 Regional Partnership since December 2024. She leads efforts to promote corporate relocations and expansions in the seven-county metro Milwaukee area. She joined M7 in 2018 as director of corporate attraction and expansion and in 2022 was named vice president. She has played a major role in efforts to support or attract numerous expansion and relocation projects, including those involving Formlabs, Generac and Eli Lilly.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, St. Norbert College; master’s, Loyola University Chicago COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “The most significant success was working with our partners to successfully attract Eli Lilly and Vantage Data Centers to the region.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “This is a niche field where no two days are ever the same. It takes an entrepreneurial spirit and the resilience to keep going because in this game, you often lose more than you win. The real skill is getting back on the horse quickly and turning each challenge into an opportunity.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Great leaders know that people and results go hand in hand. They lead with empathy and accountability, stay resilient and adaptable when challenges come up, trust their team, and take the time to bring in the right people whose skills strengthen the group as a whole. These qualities matter now more than ever, as organizations navigate constant change and rely on collaboration and innovation to stay ahead.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “I love a good fish fry at a super club! Shout out to Van Abel’s of Hollandtown (near Kaukauna).”

Dale Kooyenga

PRESIDENT METROPOLITAN MILWAUKEE ASSOCIATION OF COMMERCE MILWAUKEE

DALE KOOYENGA has served as the head of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce since early 2024. Representing more than 2,000 member businesses with more than 300,000 employees, the MMAC advocates on behalf of the business community in southeastern Wisconsin. Prior to joining MMAC, Kooyenga served in the Wisconsin State Assembly from 2011-2018 and in the state Senate from 2018-2022 as a Republican from Brookfield. He also held CFO positions at Milwaukee-based Stonehouse Water Technologies and Milwaukee-based Mpirik. He is a certified public accountant and a lieutenant colonel with the U.S. Army Reserve.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Lakeland University; master’s, Marquette University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “It’s a long list, but securing Eli Lilly and Yaskawa is towards the top of the list and in Madison, the increase in special education funding and tax relief.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Leaders need to be readers in order to understand an ever-increasingly complex world. I subscribe to the Army’s LDRSHIP acronym, which translates into the following essential leadership criteria: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honesty, Integrity and Personal Courage.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “(Former MMAC president) Tim Sheehy has been an incredible mentor. A key lesson learned is to lean into the big issues and make certain you’re relentlessly executing the board’s priorities that are embodied in the organization vision, mission and strategy.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Wading into culture wars, when it is not in the best interest of their organization.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “President Trump, because there is no greater platform to remind America that what we have, in the context of time and place, is extraordinary and all Americans need to be stewards of the opportunities we have been blessed with.”

other leading industries | Economic Development

PRESIDENT THRIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | JEFFERSON

DEB REINBOLD is president of Thrive Economic Development, leading the organization’s strategic economic and community development efforts. She also serves as executive director of the Jefferson County Economic Development Consortium, ThriveED’s public sector partner entity. With the help of several predecessors, Reinbold has helped ThriveED attract more than $1 billion in economic development to Jefferson County. Reinbold was recognized as BizTimes Media’s Woman Executive of the Year in 2025 and serves on the boards of Bread Basket Food Pantry, Wisconsin Rural Partners, Habitat for Humanity of Waukesha & Jefferson, Wisconsin Talent Attraction Community Partner Network, NAIOP, CARW and BioForward.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Whitewater; master’s, Edgewood University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “We have supported over $1.5 billion in investment within greater Jefferson County.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “If I had to narrow it down, I would highlight collaboration and partnerships, clear goals with defined metrics, and leading by serving others.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “The old saying, ‘It’s not personal, it’s just business.’ Success is built off of relationships!”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Travel.”

DREAM CAR: “Light blue Thunderbird convertible.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Wisconsinites are humble, which is one of our best qualities, but we need to tell our story and showcase what we do well!”

Nicole Ryf PRESIDENT KENOSHA AREA BUSINESS

ALLIANCE | KENOSHA

AS PRESIDENT of the Kenosha Area Business Alliance, Nicole Ryf leads initiatives that position Kenosha County as a desirable destination for new investment and talent in the Chicago-Milwaukee corridor. Ryf previously served as the executive director of the Waukesha County Center for Growth and chief strategy officer of the Hampton Roads Alliance, a regional economic development organization based in Norfolk, Virgina. Ryf also spent more than five years working for the Texas Governor’s Office. She currently serves on the boards of the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood and Building Our Future and is the chair of the Carthage College Business and Professional Coalition.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; master’s, UW-Milwaukee

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “The Kenosha County economy is booming, and we have supported a number of huge investments over the last year through KABA. This includes the largest economic development project in Kenosha County history: Eli Lilly’s $3 billion announcement last year.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Economic development is a niche industry with limited leadership opportunities that often require you to move geographies to advance your career. I was fortunate to learn the ropes in the powerhouse economic development states of Texas and Virginia and am now privileged to lead a premier economic development organization in my home state and region.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Economic development is a fluid industry, and the most successful and impactful organizations are those that can easily adapt to evolving needs within the community. Similar to many of our peers, we are grappling with the severe housing shortage and its impact on talent attraction and retention. Our organization is starting to build capacity on this topic and exploring ways in which we can address the shortage through our Kenosha County Housing Task Force.”

Jenny Trick EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

RACINE COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORP. | RACINE

JENNY TRICK is executive director of the Racine County Economic Development Corp. She has been with the organization for over 30 years, having previously served as deputy director and business development manager before being named executive director in 2014. RCEDC was involved in attracting Microsoft to Mount Pleasant, a multibillion-dollar data center project which has grown significantly since its inception. She previously served on the boards of the Racine Community Foundation and the Racine Revitalization Partnership.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Parkside

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “At the end of 2024, we celebrated the opportunity to work with 71 businesses that committed to projects that exceeded $749 million in private investment. Our loan committee and board of directors approved nearly $10 million in loans and grants to facilitate these projects. In addition to these new projects, our staff continues to support significant construction projects such as Mount Pleasant’s Microsoft data center development and the Caledonia Commerce Park. Our staff actively seeks new residential development, delivers the BizStarts Racine program for entrepreneurs and promotes the area as a place to work and live in Racine County.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Economic development and small business lending are very technical and require a special combination of talent, including analytical skills, patience, critical thinking, negotiation skills, high customer service skills and eternal optimism.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Strategic thinking, good listening skills, respect for others, collaborative and willing to take bold steps to make a positive impact.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “I love to paint – not pictures, walls. Mindless yet fruitful.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Anything with roasted veggies.”

Deb Reinbold

GENERAL COUNSEL

KOHL’S | MENOMONEE FALLS

JENNIE KENT has served as general counsel for Menomonee Falls-based retailer Kohl’s since 2023. As general counsel and corporate secretary, Kent is responsible for all legal matters for the business as well as risk, compliance and sustainability, and acts as secretary for the Kohl’s board of directors. Previously, Kent served in a variety of leadership roles at Quad and Harley-Davidson. Kent also worked as an assistant U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin and for Milwaukee-based law firm Foley & Lardner. She serves on the board of Mayville Engineering Co., where she is chair of the Compensation Committee.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Iowa; J.D., Stanford Law School

Mark Hasting

PRESIDENT

AND

CEO

BLAIN’S FARM & FLEET | JANESVILLE

MARK HASTING is the first non-family member to serve as president and CEO of Blain’s Farm & Fleet. Hasting joined the retailer in 2020 as chief stores officer and succeeded former president and CEO Jane Blain Gilbertson in September 2024 when Blain Gilbertson stepped down from the role and became executive chair of the board of directors. Prior to joining Blain’s Farm & Fleet, Hasting spent more than 20 years at Target, where he had many roles including store manager, district team leader, group vice president and vice president of store operations. He has also served as regional vice president at Starbucks and chief operating officer at Kum & Go.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Oklahoma State University; master’s, Oklahoma City University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Our most significant success this past year has been celebrating Blain’s Farm & Fleet’s 70th Anniversary. From a single store in Wisconsin in 1955 to 45 locations across four states today, this milestone has given us the chance to reflect on our history while also looking ahead.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “Our culture goes back to Bert and Claude Blain, who opened the first Blain’s Farm & Fleet store 70 years ago with a simple idea: take care of your neighbors. We carry that forward today by sharing those origin stories and celebrating our heroes.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “I’ve spent more than 35 years in retail, most of it in stores and store operations, and one of the long-standing challenges has been relocation. Years ago, moving for a promotion was common. Today, with most families relying on two incomes, relocation is much more complex. Another challenge is the rapid pace of change in retail. Growth is happening online while brick-and-mortar remains steady, so the career paths of the future will look different.”

CEO

LANDS’ END | DODGEVILLE

ANDREW MCLEAN is chief executive officer and a board member of Dodgeville-based Lands’ End. The multi-channel retailer employs roughly 5,000 people. Prior to joining Lands’ End, McLean was president, international at AEO, the parent of American Eagle Outfitters and Aerie brands. In that role, he led international operations and innovation across Canada, Greater Asia, Europe and Mexico and oversaw global expansion for AEO’s brands. He has also held senior positions at Gap, Liz Claiborne and Urban Outfitters. McLean is a supporter of the New York Fashion Tech Lab, an organization committed to supporting retail innovation among female entrepreneurs.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Manchester; master’s, University of Cambridge; MBA, Harvard Business School

PRESIDENT AND CEO

DULUTH TRADING CO.

MOUNT HOREB

AFTER A SIX-YEAR HIATUS, Stephanie Pugliese was reappointed as Duluth Trading Co.’s president and CEO in April of 2025. She first joined Duluth Trading in November 2008 as vice president of product and merchandising. Between 2010 and 2015, Pugliese held several management roles including senior vice president, head of merchandising, chief marketing officer and chief operating officer. In her time away, Pugliese served as president of North America and later as president of the Americas for Under Armor. Earlier in her career she was a vice president for Dodgeville-based Lands’ End and for Ann Taylor. She currently serves on the advisory board for the Women in Retail Leadership Circle and on the board for Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurants. She previously served on the board for American Eagle Outfitters and the advisory board for Title Nine.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, New York University

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “At the core, all businesses are people businesses, no matter what your product is. A great leader has to be intuitive, have a high EQ, and be able to communicate a vision to inspire action from the entire organization.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “Steve Schlecht (Duluth Trading chairman and founder) taught me the power of playing the long game in business while still paying attention to all of the details that matter every day. He has vision and is a person of great integrity and spirit.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “‘Dare to Lead’ by Brene Brown, ‘The Confidence Code’ by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman, and ‘The Five Dysfunctions of a Team’ by Patrick Lencioni. For fun I recommend anything by Fredrik Backman!”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “I spend time in my garden, go for a long walk in the woods or get near the ocean. Nature makes me realize how perfect something can be that seems effortless and so I tend to relax and get ‘unstuck’ when I’m surrounded by that beauty.”

Jennie Kent

Andrew McLean

Stephanie Pugliese

John Schaefer

PRESIDENT AND CEO

FLEET FARM | APPLETON

JOHN SCHAEFER has led Appleton-based retailer Fleet Farm since 2019. Fleet Farm has more than 6,600 employees and operates 49 locations across Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Previously, Schaefer was CEO of Sportsman’s Warehouse, Team Express and Cornerstone Brands Inc. Earlier, Schaefer was chief financial officer and chief operating officer of Eastbay Inc. Schaefer previously served on the board of Badgers United, an organization that promotes the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s statewide economic impact. He is also a former alumni representative on UW-Madison’s athletic board and was chair of the oversight body’s finance committee.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

Scott Zietlow

PRESIDENT AND CEO

KWIK TRIP INC. | LA CROSSE

SCOTT ZIETLOW has served as president and chief executive officer of Kwik Trip since 2023, ushering in the second generation of family ownership and leadership at the La Crosse-based convenience store chain. Zietlow previously worked at the Rochester, Minnesota-based Mayo Clinic since the early 1990s, serving as a professor of surgery in the Trauma, Critical Care and General Surgery Division. Zietlow is also the chair of Kwik Trip’s board of directors. In his role, he oversees Kwik Trip’s 900-plus stores across Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan and South Dakota, including more than 500 in Wisconsin.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-La Crosse; M.D., UW School of Medicine and Public Health

PRESIDENT STEINHAFELS | PEWAUKEE

ANDREW STEINHAFEL is a fourth-generation family leader of Pewaukee-based furniture retailer Steinhafels Inc. He was appointed president in 2021 after serving as director of IT from 2013 to 2021 and adding vice president to his title in 2018. Previously, Steinhafel was lead engineer at Cambridge, Massachusettsbased PowerInbox Inc. and software engineer at Code Red Software. Steinhafels has 720 employees and 10 stores in Wisconsin, six in Illinois and one in Indiana. In 2021, the Steinhafel family sold all of their stock in the company to an employee stock ownership plan, making Steinhafels 100% employee owned.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Boston College; master’s, UWMadison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “As the fourth-generation member of the Steinhafels family to lead the company, I am most proud of our success in transitioning from a family-owned to an employeeowned company. We have instilled values of ownership and integrity in our employee-owners as we invested in our business, growing our stores here in Wisconsin and expanding our footprint into Chicago and Indiana without losing Steinhafels’ unsurpassed retail excellence.”

HOW YOU HELP NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “Creating a culture of employee-owners in new associates by granting company stock after one year of employment.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “A successful leader must balance the need to drive short-term results without sacrificing time, attention and resources from implementing a long-term strategy.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My father, Mark Steinhafel, taught me the importance of perseverance in overcoming obstacles personally and professionally.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Continue to focus on innovation, whether that’s in health care, technology or another industry. Wisconsin should make an effort to skate to where the puck is moving.”

Andrew Steinhafel

REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMET

Construction,

Estate

construction

100 Ahern, Tripp

100 Bechthold, Kurt

100 Cullen, George & Cullen Schultz, Jeannie

101 Dupies, Alicia

101 Hunzinger, John

102 Kievet, Dave

102 Lindley, Steve

102 Mambu Rasch, Chris

102 Michels, Pat

103 Riley, Dave

103 Rudnicki, Mark 104 Schmidt, Eric

104 Smith, Justin

104 Thayer, Tom 104 Voss, Daniel

105 Yehle, Jim

real estate

105 Barrett, Rick 106 Block, Bruce 106 Dufek, Kristin

106 Gebhardt III, Otto 106 Gokhman, Tim 107 Gorens-Levey, Linda

107 Hammes, Patrick

107 Irgens, Mark 107 Jeffers, Josh

108 Johnson, Tracy 108 Livesey, John K.

108 Lurie, Scott 108 Mills, S.R. 109 Moroney, Matt 109 Newell, Kevin 109 Rinka, Matt 109 Villa, Jim 110 Wallen, Tim 110 Weyers, Jeff 110 Wigchers, Bill

110 Yauck, Scott

Tripp Ahern

CHAIRMAN AND CEO

J. F. AHERN CO. | FOND DU LAC

TRIPP AHERN represents the fifth generation of family leadership of J. F. Ahern Co., a mechanical and fire protection contractor with operations in Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Minnesota, Nebraska and Iowa. In 1988, Ahern joined the company as project manager; he was promoted to mechanical department manager in 1990, president and chief operating officer in 1994, and CEO in 1997. Ahern has been active in industry associations including the Mechanical Contractors Association of America, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Wisconsin and the Associated General Contractors of Wisconsin. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Fond du Lac Area Foundation.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Milwaukee School of Engineering

Kurt Bechthold

CHAIRMAN AND CEO WALBEC GROUP | PEWAUKEE

MILWAUKEE-NATIVE

Kurt Bechthold serves as chairman and CEO of Walbec Group. With its six companies, Payne and Dolan, Northeast Asphalt, Zenith Tech, Parisi, Premier Concrete, and Construction Resources Management, Walbec produces construction materials and delivers professional design,

engineering and construction services to its clients. In addition to his role at Walbec, Bechthold serves on the boards of directors for Froedtert ThedaCare Health, Sunrock Group, Siebert Lutheran Foundation, Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, Lake Express and the National Asphalt Pavement Association. He is also a member of the Greater Milwaukee Committee.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; MBA, Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “In the past year, we’ve seen remarkable growth in our team members’ expertise and leadership capabilities. This investment in our people has created a dynamic environment where career advancement is paired with expanding our service capabilities. As a result, we’ve strengthened our position as a comprehensive, single-source solution provider that delivers exceptional value to our customers across all project phases.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “We onboard new team members with a program that immerses them in our core values – safety, quality, innovation, community and respect. This cultivates a can-do attitude and strong work ethic, enabling them to adapt quickly and thrive in their roles.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “The Ace Hardware guy. I’d know where everything is.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “General advice on diet or exercise.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “My Garmin Fenix watch.”

George Cullen and Jeannie Cullen Schultz

CO-PRESIDENTS

JP CULLEN | JANESVILLE

SIBLINGS AND JANESVILLE-NATIVES George Cullen and Jeannie Cullen Schultz are copresidents of Janesville-based construction firm JP Cullen. George worked at California Comfort Systems USA before joining the family business as a project manager in 2015. He served as vice president for a year and a half before taking on the role as co-president in 2020. Previously, Jeannie worked as a project manager for HVAC contractor North American Mechanical. In 2020, Jeannie was promoted to co-president after serving in the health care construction sector of the company for nearly seven years.

EDUCATION: George: bachelor’s, Georgetown; master’s, UW-Madison

Jeannie: bachelor’s, Dartmouth; master’s, UW-Madison

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “As leaders of a growing family business, we think it is important to be humble, continuous learners, and passionate about our people and the incredible work that we get to do. Being engaged and available to our team members is also paramount to our leadership approach.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: Jeannie: “For a long time, I wanted to be a college basketball coach, so if I could change jobs I would love to coach for a month. It would be great experience especially given how much college athletics has changed since my playing and coaching days.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: George: “‘Radical Candor’ by Kim Scott provides great advice on how to have open, productive dialogue with your direct reports. I also enjoy the framework of Rock Stars vs. Super Stars and companies need to have both.”

Alica Dupies

VICE PRESIDENT, MILWAUKEE BUSINESS LEADER

GILBANE | MILWAUKEE

ALICIA DUPIES serves as vice president and Milwaukee business leader for Rhode Island-based Gilbane Building Co. She has led several major construction projects across Wisconsin, including the Baird Center and the Milwaukee County Zoo’s rhino and penguin exhibits, and is currently overseeing the reconstruction of Northwestern Mutual’s North Office Building, Sentry Insurance’s headquarters renovation and the Waukesha County Courthouse renovation. Before joining Gilbane in 2021, Dupies worked for 20 years in the architectural, engineering, construction and development industries. She serves on the boards of Carmen Schools of Science & Technology and ACE Mentor Program of Wisconsin as well as on the Executive Committee for the Wisconsin Policy Forum.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Simple. Gilbane Building Company is building more than buildings.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Personally, I’d say empathy, clarity and adaptability are foundational – how a leader shows up every day matters. But just as important are the learned behaviors: responsiveness and follow-through. In my experience, trust isn’t built through titles or strategies, it’s built through consistent action. A successful leader must inspire trust, communicate a clear vision, and pivot when needed. They need to be insanely consistent and responsive. People want to feel heard and know that what matters to them also matters to you. Being present, actively listening and following through are the qualities that create real connection and lasting impact.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Overcomplicating communication and losing sight of the human element. Simplicity and relationship-building are often undervalued but are critical to success. I believe trust, clear expectations and open communication go much further than a long list of do’s and don’ts.”

John Hunzinger

CEO AND CHAIRMAN HUNZINGER CONSTRUCTION CO. | BROOKFIELD

JOHN HUNZINGER has led Brookfield-based Hunzinger Construction Co. for the past 36 years. In total, Hunzinger has spent 44 years with the company. Hunzinger has led the company as it has led construction for some of the Milwaukee area’s highest-profile projects, in recent years including the Milwaukee Repertory Theater complex renovation, the construction of Komatsu’s South Harbor Campus, Bayshore’s redevelopment, the American Family Insurance Amphitheater renovation and Deer District.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Colorado

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Our successful leadership transition began almost 10 years ago when we became an ESOP and was fulfilled this year. Matt Hunzinger was named president of Hunzinger Denver and Scott Wendt was named president of Hunzinger Construction based here in Wisconsin.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Recruitment in the building trades, it’s improving but there’s still an insufficient number of candidates.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “One must become a servant leader. ‘If serving is beneath you, then leading is above you.’”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Too many business leaders fear transition planning and approach it as if they are planning their own funeral. They don’t understand that it’s a five- to 10-year process. It’s their responsibility to help secure their company’s future.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “I love to fish and hunt. I really enjoy seeing our yellow labs Judge and Remi work in the field. I trained my hunting dogs. It’s very rewarding to see those wonderful beings joyfully fulfilled.”

FAVORITE PODCAST: “Joe Rogan, hands down!”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “If I had the power, lengthen our beautiful summers and shorten those blasted winters!”

CELEBRATES WISCONSIN’ S MOST INFLUENTIAL BUSINESS LEADERS

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

Dave Kievet PRESIDENT AND CEO THE BOLDT GROUP | APPLETON

DAVE KIEVET has served as president and CEO of Appleton-based construction company The Boldt Groupsince January 2024. Kievet’s tenure extends well beyond his appointment however, as he has been with the company for well over three decades in a variety of roles, including group president and chief operating officer. The company operates 18 offices across the U.S. and serves the health care, power, industrial, education, automotive and commercial markets. Kievet succeeded Tom Boldt, who served as CEO of the firm from 1998 to 2024.

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Over the past 12 months, we’ve been fortunate to experience several meaningful milestones. One of the most significant has been the launch of our newest business, Bildt. As we look ahead, we recognize the challenges facing our industry – most notably, projections indicating a potential loss of up to 40% of the workforce over the next five years. Bildt represents our innovative response to this challenge, offering modular and prefabrication solutions designed to enhance efficiency and productivity across the construction sector. We’re also working toward becoming a 100% employee-owned (ESOP) organization by the end of the year.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “I’m not sure whether this challenge is unique to the construction industry or more universal, but I’ve noticed a recurring theme: many individuals look to their employer to define and drive their career path. When promotions don’t come quickly enough or the ‘right’ opportunities don’t appear, frustration can set in. It’s easy to fall into the mindset that the company is solely responsible for one’s success.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “That would have to be my Miller 220 welder tucked under the welding table in my garage. In my completely biased and mildly unqualified opinion, it’s the best all-around welder out there.”

Chris Mambu Rasch EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BUILDING ADVANTAGE | MILWAUKEE

CHRIS MAMBU RASCH is the executive director of Building Advantage, where he promotes union commercial construction in southeast Wisconsin on behalf of union contractors and the union tradespeople they employ. Building Advantage’s membership is comprised of hundreds of construction contractors, thousands of tradespeople and their unions, a workforce intermediary organization, and five management associations. Previously, Mambu Rasch held roles as the director of strategic partnerships and government relations for Community Health and vice president of advocacy and membership for the Wisconsin Medical Society.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “Building Advantage has created an equity fund using building trades union pension fund money to help developers in southeast Wisconsin finance their construction projects. In the last two years, Building Advantage’s union pension and insurance fund partners helped finance the two largest residential towers in Milwaukee along with a senior housing renovation project to the tune of $270 million in debt and equity financing between the three projects.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Our management and labor partners come together with a spirit of collaboration because we’re better off working together and that’s what I as a leader work to keep us focused on. You have to do your homework, be a good facilitator, have a vision and bring people together around that common purpose. The rest is just blocking and tackling and executing on it.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “I enjoy golfing the beautiful golf courses of Wisconsin. I think I’m close to golfing 40 Wisconsin courses. It would be fun to get to 100.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Not having empathy for others. When you lose that empathy, you become a terrible leader. Business and empathy are not mutually exclusive.”

Steve Lindley

PRESIDENT

HOOPER CORP. | DEFOREST

STEVE LINDLEY is president of DeForest-based Hooper Corp., an electric power and mechanical contractor company leading several large projects in and around the Madison area. Lindley oversees external affairs and strategy for the company. Previously, he served as vice president of operations. Hooper employs about 1,300 office staff and tradespeople across its Madison-area headquarters and regional offices in Colorado, Florida and Ohio. In 2021, under Lindley’s leadership, the firm opened a new corporate headquarters and fabrication facility on 50 acres in DeForest. That same year, Hooper merged with wholly owned subsidiary General Heating & Air Conditioning to become a unified company and brand.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Idaho – Moscow

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “We provide a structured onboarding process that gives new employees a strong start in understanding our culture. Beyond that, assimilation happens through daily interactions with co-workers and participation in a variety of activities and trainings.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “I don’t think our industry is unique in this. I think an individual’s mindset and self-limiting behaviors are often the biggest obstacle. Risk aversion or reluctance to step outside their comfort zone or waiting to be ‘tapped on the shoulder’ instead of actively pursuing opportunities can result in a slower growth trajectory.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Consistent with what I said last year, I would like to see Wisconsin’s educational system strengthened at all levels. A strong education is not only essential for the personal well-being and opportunities of future generations, but it is also critical to the long-term strength and competitiveness of Wisconsin’s economy.”

Pat Michels

PRESIDENT AND CEO

MICHELS CORP. | BROWNSVILLE

PAT MICHELS is president and chief executive officer of Brownsville-based Michels Corp., a Brownsville-based energy and infrastructure construction firm. Michels recently celebrated 50 years with the company. The company is the largest construction firm in Wisconsin, with about $4 billion in annual revenue and employing more than 8,000 people. Established as a regional gas distribution company in 1959, the company has grown under the leadership of Pat Michels and his brothers Tim and Kevin. The company ranked No. 13 on the 2025 Deloitte Wisconsin 75 list of the largest privately held companies in the state.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, St. Norbert University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Michels continues to expand our footprint internationally, which is a significant accomplishment, but equally important is the way we have used our experience in the United States to address needs for new and improved infrastructure design and construction. We take risks, embrace innovation and collaborate with our customers to meet their needs.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Flexibility is key to success in construction. Our industries and opportunities are constantly evolving. To fully take advantage of opportunities for abundant growth at Michels and in construction, our people need to be flexible, too. Whether someone is working in a project management, field or office position, I encourage everyone to be open to learning more and trying new things to quickly turn a job into a successful career.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “I had the privilege of working with my father, Dale Michels, and the people he trusted to work with in Michels’ early days. I learned the importance of taking pride in your work, being dedicated and taking on new challenges. That led to tremendous growth.”

RILEY CONSTRUCTION | KENOSHA

DAVE RILEY is a second-generation family leader of Riley Construction, a Kenosha-based construction firm founded in 1965 by Riley’s parents. Riley officially joined the family firm in 1992, though he had already logged many hours on company job sites as a teenager and college student. Before being appointed chairman in 2022, Riley served in a variety of operational roles. Riley Construction has worked on several notable projects across southeastern Wisconsin and northern Illinois, including Milwaukee Tool’s headquarters expansion, the Snap-On Museum and Birchwood Foods corporate headquarters, among others.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Arizona State University

Mark Rudnicki

PRESIDENT AND CEO

STEVENS CONSTRUCTION CORP. | MADISON

MARK RUDNICKI has served as CEO of Madison-based construction firm Stevens Construction Corp. since 2009. Rudnicki began his career at Stevens in 1999 as the company’s controller. He was later promoted to chief financial officer and served in that role until January 2009 when he became CEO. Stevens has led a number of major residential and commercial construction projects throughout the state, including the Mayfair Reserve in Wauwatosa, the NOVA Apartments in Green Bay, the remodel of Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce’s office and several Johnson Financial Group buildings and student housing buildings on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Our biggest success came from working closely with our clients and suppliers to navigate tariff challenges together, ensuring that no one was significantly impacted during a time of great uncertainty.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES UNDERSTAND COMPANY CULTURE: “I spend time with people across the organization, demonstrating our organizational values so it’s clear they’re more than just words; they truly guide our actions every day.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “In a world that is increasingly complex and evolving, effective leadership requires consistency and steadiness. Above all, it requires an unwavering focus on people. The Stevens team is the true ‘secret sauce’ of our success, and my core responsibility is to empower them to achieve their best.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My father taught me that people are at the heart of every organization. Each person and every role matters, and the greatest thing a leader can do is help others see their value and reach their potential.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Golf, boating and snowmobiling.”

Dave Riley

CHAIRMAN

Eric Schmidt PRESIDENT AND CEO

CG SCHMIDT INC. | MILWAUKEE

ERIC SCHMIDT is president of CG Schmidt Inc., a Milwaukee-based, family-owned construction management firm. Schmidt has helped lead some of the company’s most notable projects, including the Milwaukee Art Museum’s Calatravadesigned addition, the Journal Square Lofts and the Milwaukee Athletic Club’s redevelopment. Schmidt joined his family’s business in 1991 as a field engineer and worked his way up to senior vice president in 2019 and then president in 2022. Schmidt serves on the boards of the Associated General Contractors of Greater Milwaukee, the UW-Milwaukee Business Advisory Council, the Milwaukee County Historical Society, the Greater Milwaukee Committee, YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee and St. Francis Borgia Catholic School.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; master’s, UW-Milwaukee

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “I don’t see my job evolving. Ever. My role is to help my teammates succeed by mentoring, building relationships, removing roadblocks early and making sure they have the training, resources and tools to deliver exceptional results. What will evolve are the tools I use to do that. AI will play a bigger role in collecting insights, analyzing data and identifying trends with our customers. CRM systems will help track and strengthen relationships. Soft skills training will become even more important as we focus on communication, emotional intelligence and leadership presence. And a company-wide skills development program will help ensure that every team member is growing, adapting and delivering increased value to our clients at every level of their business.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “‘Success requires sacrifice.’ I’ve never subscribed to that. I didn’t sacrifice anything to reach my career goals. I did what was required to achieve something I was fully committed to. Calling it a sacrifice implies I gave something up.”

Tom Thayer PRESIDENT AND CEO TRI-NORTH BUILDERS | FITCHBURG

TOM THAYER is one of Tri-North’s three founders as well as the company’s president and CEO. Thayer’s construction career spans over five decades and includes serving as president of the Associated General Contractors of Wisconsin. Tri-North is a Fitchburg-based construction firm with projects in the retail, industrial, office, residential, health care and hospitality sectors. Notable projects completed under Thayer’s leadership include the Hilldale Shopping Center in Madison, The Pfister Hotel renovation in downtown Milwaukee, The Corners of Brookfield and several UW Health system buildings across Wisconsin.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Colorado State University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Some of Tri-North’s latest successes can be showcased by our projects. Some local award-winning examples from the last 12 months include Moxy Madison Downtown, Marriott Center in Brookfield, and The Saddlery in Madison. Other notable projects include the large-scale renovations for The Pfister Hotel and Hilton Milwaukee. The breadth of our work is also showcased by our national reach. In 2024 alone, Tri-North completed 147 projects in 24 states.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “We take the approach of people-first leadership where culture meets commitment. New employees are given an overview of key components that create our culture (e.g. open-door policy, accountability, Little Builders Daycare, Tri-North Fundamentals, etc.).”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Empathy, flexibility, innovation, strategy, a positive attitude and the ability to listen to a different option without interruption.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Poor cash management and failure to plan.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “It would be a private yacht captain in the Mediterranean. I would love to drive a large yacht and run a crew while experiencing the scenery and culture in a different part of the world.”

C.D. SMITH | FOND DU LAC

JUSTIN SMITH represents the fourth generation of family leadership at C.D. Smith. He succeeded his father, the late Gary Smith, as president and CEO in 2014. Under Justin’s leadership, C.D. Smith opened a Milwaukee branch in 2015, a new corporate office in Fond du Lac and a second branch in Madison in 2019, and a fourth office, in La Crosse, in 2020. C.D. Smith is seen as a leader in mass timber construction in Wisconsin, having worked on five mass timber projects in the state including downtown Milwaukee’s Ascent, the world’s tallest mass timber hybrid tower. The firm also served as the construction manager, alongside Gilbane Building Co., for the $465 million Baird Center expansion in Milwaukee.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, West Virginia University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “We help new employees understand our company culture in many ways – monthly town halls, held both in person and virtually, are particularly impactful. These gatherings provide a space to share successes, address concerns and enjoy time together as a team.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “The most important qualities of a successful business leader today include being flexible and strategic, remaining a lifelong learner and embracing change. Strong leaders adopt and implement new technologies, theories and innovations while staying available to their teams to provide feedback, encouragement and support.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “Managing the strategic adoption of AI will be a big part of how we evolve in the next couple of years. AI will not just be a competitive edge moving forward; it will be a necessity to meet the rising demands for speed, sustainability and cost control in an increasingly complex construction environment.”

CEO

MIRON CONSTRUCTION | NEENAH

DANIEL VOSS was appointed CEO of Neenah-based Miron Construction in early 2025. Voss joined the Miron team in 2005, beginning his career as a field engineer assisting the management team on various projects. He then transitioned to Miron’s business development team as vice president of business development, coordinating all business development efforts for Miron’s Wausau office. Later, he led Miron’s industrial division as executive vice president. He also managed preconstruction activities including design, planning, budgeting and scheduling of projects. Voss succeeded his father David G. Voss Jr., who led the company from 1977 to 2025.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-La Crosse

Justin Smith PRESIDENT AND CEO

Daniel Voss

Jim Yehle

PRESIDENT AND CEO

FINDORFF | MADISON

JIM YEHLE has led Madison-based general contracting firm J.H. Findorff & Son Inc. since 2020. Under his leadership, the firm has completed several significant projects in Milwaukee including The Couture luxury apartment tower, The Trade hotel and Marquette University’s business school building. Yehle joined the company in 1999 and served as vice president until 2016, when he was promoted to executive vice president before becoming president and CEO. He serves on the board of directors for the Madison Region Economic Partnership and Madison Symphony Orchestra, chairs the board of directors for the Overture Center for the Arts, and chairs the advisory board for the UW School of Medicine and Public Health’s Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “One of Findorff’s most significant successes was becoming an employee-owned company. I’m proud that we can find new ways to empower and thank our staff for their hard work. We hit major milestones including 135 years as a company and 50 years in Milwaukee. We also achieved major sustainability milestones, including building the world’s largest WELL Gold-certified health care project and earning multiple LEED certifications. Additionally, our special projects group completed over 700 projects, showcasing innovation and responsiveness in serving clients of all sizes.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Be humble, be a great listener, and help those around you succeed.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “An educator – high school or college.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “When people say ‘I’ve read this’ or ‘I’ve heard something’ versus ‘I’ve experienced…’ To me, experience-type advice is everything!” WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “I love being out on the lake on a late summer evening!”

President and CEO on being among the Wisconsin 275 Most Influential Business Leaders

Rick Barrett

PRESIDENT BARRETT LO | MILWAUKEE

DEVELOPER RICK BARRETT has built two of the most ambitious buildings in Wisconsin, 30-story residential tower The Moderne and the 44-story apartment tower The Couture, both in downtown Milwaukee. He has also developed apartment developments north of downtown Milwaukee and at Drexel Town Square in Oak Creek. His firm has several other major developments in the works including plans to redevelop the former Boston Store site at Southridge Mall into a mixed-use neighborhood with apartments and retail space and is working on a $400 million, multibuilding apartment and retail neighborhood development at Mayfair Mall in Wauwatosa.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Real estate is cyclical, and that cycle is something you can only really appreciate through experience. The people who have been through multiple cycles bring a perspective that’s invaluable. At the same time, the energy and passion that younger people bring into the industry are just as important. The real challenge, and the real opportunity, is blending the two – respecting the wisdom of experience while capturing the energy of new ideas.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I’d like to be the general manager of either a professional baseball or football team. I think the challenge of building a roster and balancing the various needs of rookies and veteran players as well as coaches and staff to make the organization hum would be incredibly rewarding.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “I wish Wisconsin did a better job of promoting itself to the rest of the world. This state has so much to offer. Every time I get on a flight home, I know it’s going to be a good trip because the plane is full of kind, down-to-earth Wisconsinites.”

Bruce Block ATTORNEY

REINHART BOERNER VAN DEUREN S.C. | MILWAUKEE

BRUCE BLOCK is of counsel for Reinhart’s real estate practice. Block counsels clients in commercial real estate, with an emphasis on public/private partnerships between developers and municipalities. His past experience includes a variety of real estate matters including land use planning, zoning, eminent domain, historic tax credits, multiple and mixed-use ownership structures, tax incremental financing and leasing, construction and design contracts. In partnership with a client, Block helped found The Wisconsin Preservation Fund in 1990 which oversees a revolving loan fund for small, inner-city developers, partners with affordable housing developers, and provides grants and small donations to other nonprofit historic preservation efforts.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; J.D., Boston University

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Tendency to look for a fast and easy solution and move on to the next task; inability to communicate (orally and in writing) clearly. Technology has made a lot of information available at our fingertips, and the educational system focuses heavily on how to access that information. But for an attorney, information is a tool to arrive at a solution; information is not the solution. I think there is a tendency for younger attorneys, who have been immersed in technology pretty much all of their lives, to forget that. I also think that there is less emphasis in the educational system on developing communication skills.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My early mentor was Alan Rieselbach. A key lesson from Alan was to ‘peel the onion,’ i.e. take the time to thoroughly analyze the situation. This is even more true today, as technology has made it easy to find a quick answer, which is often not a solution.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Spring. It doesn’t exist most years.”

Otto Gebhardt III

FOUNDER AND CEO

GEBHARDT DEVELOPMENT | MADISON

OTTO GEBHARDT is the founder and chief executive officer of Madisonbased real estate investment and development firm Gebhardt Development. Having spent nearly his entire life in the real estate industry, Gebhardt’s portfolio includes several large mixed-use developments in Madison. Previously, Gebhardt spent 16 years as part owner of Quality Fitness, a family-operated fitness equipment business with locations in Wisconsin, Illinois and Florida. He has also served five years on the board of directors for Greenwoods Financial Group.

Kristin Dufek PRESIDENT & CEO

EUA | MILWAUKEE

KRISTIN DUFEK serves as president and CEO of Milwaukee-based architecture firm EUA. Dufek joined EUA in 2003, was promoted to vice president in 2015 and then to president in 2021; she added CEO to her title in August 2025. With 275 employees and offices in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Atlanta and Denver, EUA specializes in workplace, health care, learning, living and science/technology markets as well as community environments. Dufek is the board chair for Milwaukee Women Inc. and is a board member at United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Notre Dame; master’s, UW-Milwaukee

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “I recently stepped into the role of CEO at EUA, which has been an exciting transition for both me and the firm. Over the past year, we’ve focused on growing our team and integrating more technology into how we work. One highlight has been expanding our Advanced Manufacturing + Industrial Studio, which supports clients in aerospace, manufacturing, and food and beverage. We’re also embracing tools like AI to streamline processes so our people can focus on what they do best – delivering creative, high-value solutions for our clients.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “For me, it’s about inspiring people to do their best work and challenging them to think bigger. A good leader sets the vision but also rolls up their sleeves when needed. Today, that means balancing strategic planning with adaptability –especially as technology changes how we work. It’s also about building trust, supporting your team, and never losing sight of the client experience.”

DREAM CAR: “An old, basic, manual transmission Jeep Wrangler. Functional and fun.”

Tim Gokhman MANAGING DIRECTOR NEW LAND ENTERPRISES | MILWAUKEE

TIM GOKHMAN oversees development, acquisition and management for New Land Enterprises, a Milwaukee-based real estate development firm specializing in mixed-use residential and commercial real estate. New Land has developed more than 30 projects with a total value of about $650 million, and currently manages a portfolio of roughly 2,200 apartments and 200,000 square feet of commercial space. The firm’s developments include Rhythm, Milwaukee’s first “micro-unit” apartment building, and Ascent MKE, the world’s tallest mass timber building. In 2024, Gokhman formed Timber + Partners, a company focused exclusively on mass timber developments. With its entire portfolio in Milwaukee, the firm is now building an eight-story apartment building in downtown Green Bay.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “New Land started Nova GB, a $77 million mixed-use multifamily project in Green Bay, marking its first foray outside of the Milwaukee area.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Market size and population growth. There are only a few prominent firms doing development and property management at scale, limiting exchange of ideas and best practices.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “A good communicator (clear, concise, authentic); clear vision (where we are going and why); adaptability and curiosity (tech, innovation, cultural shifts); integrity; empathy; courage and optimism.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “In the past two years, we’ve made some really big hires, both in property management and development. It’s been amazing to see these people step up in their roles and set the company up for incredible growth. I now focus much more on strategy and where we’ll be in five to 10 years. The shifting dynamics in real estate caused by interest rates, construction costs and AI make that more critical than ever.”

Linda Gorens-Levey

PARTNER

GENERAL CAPITAL GROUP | FOX POINT

LINDA GORENS-LEVEY is a partner at Fox Point-based real estate firm General Capital Group. She oversees new development and build-to-suit opportunities, partnerships with municipalities, and asset management and investor communications for the company’s portfolio of market-rate multi-family assets. Prior to joining General Capital in 2015, Gorens-Levey served as managing director at Stark Investments and associate director of investments at Northwestern Mutual. She currently serves on the board of Ixonia Bank and chairs the Finance Committee at the Medical College of Wisconsin.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; master’s, Northwestern University

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Navigating a male-dominated industry as a woman often means facing subtle biases and enduring constant pressure to prove competence. I remain acutely aware when I am the only woman at the table or in the room. That’s why I was honored when Marquette University invited me to serve as the first female Executive in Residence for the Real Estate Program. Despite an already full plate, I felt the need to step forward so that younger women could see someone who looks like them in a leadership position.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “I think early-career professionals need more than mentors – they need advocates. In 1991, I became pregnant with my older son, Jacob. I was the first officer at Northwestern Mutual to seek a flexible work option. I was the only woman in the department at the time. Ed Zore, then the CIO, later to become the president and CEO, said yes (to my request). By allowing me to adopt a nonstandard schedule, Ed helped me remain in the workforce and advance my career.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “Chair umpire for the Australian Open.”

CEO AND MANAGER

IRGENS PARTNERS | WAUWATOSA

MARK IRGENS is the founder, CEO and manager of Irgens Partners, a commercial real estate development firm behind many of metro Milwaukee’s major office buildings. Its noteworthy projects include the downtown BMO Tower, 833 East Michigan Street, ASQ Center, A.O. Smith’s corporate technology center and The Corridor development in Brookfield. Irgens is a co-founder and past president of the NAIOP-Wisconsin chapter and a member of the Commercial Association of Realtors Wisconsin and Urban Land Institute. In addition to Irgens’ board of directors and investment committee, he serves on the board of United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County, the James A. Graaskamp Center for Real Estate at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the U.S. Bank Advisory Board in Wisconsin and the Three Harbors Council, Boy Scouts of America.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “We successfully extended the commercial loans for BMO Tower and 833 East in downtown Milwaukee and refinanced our Milwaukee County Research Park portfolio, a new medical office building development in Arizona (Cielo Vista Medical Commons), and a new retail development at The Corridor in Brookfield.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “Most of our senior leaders have long tenure with the company. They help guide and train new employees and check in regularly so there is clear communication on responsibilities and expectations.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Objectivity, flexibility, foresight, and patience.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “Three mentors – my dad, Rolf, who was an architect and got me interested in planning and building; Warren Parsons, who was my leader at The Boldt Company; and Bill Orenstein, a real estate colleague and friend who taught me how to think critically and focus on the practical aspects of real estate.”

MANAGING PRINCIPAL

HAMMES PARTNERS | MILWAUKEE

PATRICK HAMMES serves as managing principal at health care real estate company Hammes Partners, a role he began in 2012 after spending five years as vice president of investment banking at Baird. Prior to his time at Baird, Hammes was an attorney at a firm in Dallas. Hammes leads the company’s investment management business, which has raised over $2 billion in equity from institutional investors. Hammes serves as the chair of the board of directors for Children’s Wisconsin and is a member on the boards of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee and the University of Wisconsin’s Nicholas Center for Corporate Finance and Investment Banking.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; master’s, UW-Madison; J.D., Georgetown University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “During a time when the health care and real estate industries have faced material headwinds, our greatest success was the resiliency and perseverance of our team which has enabled our platform to continue to grow.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “You need to have formal training but most importantly serve as an example.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “Talking too much and thinking you have all the answers.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “Oura Ring. Whatever gadget can help all of us get good sleep.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “We have high-character cities, incredible sporting environments, scenic outdoors, lively festivals and unique food options. But, when I host people from outside the state, I most often receive comments about how friendly people are in Wisconsin.”

ONE THING TO MAKE WISCONSIN BETTER: “Increase our work opportunities and quality of life for younger talent so we keep our youth here and attract from the outside.”

Josh Jeffers

FOUNDER AND CEO

J. JEFFERS & CO. | MILWAUKEE

JOSH JEFFERS is the founder and CEO of Milwaukee-based J. Jeffers & Co., a real estate development company with several notable projects in southeastern Wisconsin including The Huron Building in downtown Milwaukee, the rehabilitation of the Milwaukee Athletic Club, the redevelopment of the former Milwaukee Journal Sentinel buildings and redevelopment of the former Horlick Malted Milk Co. complex in Racine.

Jeffers’ transactional experience has included over $2 billion of commercial real estate investments in U.S. and international markets, spanning office, retail, multifamily housing, industrial, hospitality and mixed-use asset types. After getting his start in the acquisitions department of Walton Street Capital in Chicago, Jeffers founded his own firm in 2012.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; master’s, Harvard University

Mark Irgens

Patrick Hammes

Tracy Johnson PRESIDENT AND CEO CARW | MILWAUKEE

TRACY JOHNSON leads the Commercial Association of Realtors Wisconsin, a Milwaukee-based association that supports nearly 1,000 commercial real estate professionals in 500 companies in Wisconsin. She previously was the executive director of TEMPO Milwaukee and director of public affairs for the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. Johnson is a member of the Greater Milwaukee Committee, Hoan Group, Wisconsin Policy Forum and Downtown Milwaukee Rotary Club, and has served on several boards including Ascension Wisconsin, the Medical College of Wisconsin Neuroscience Board, Visit Milwaukee, the Transportation Development Association and MobiliSE.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and MBA, Marquette University HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “I believe in showing by leading. I bring new people into calls, meetings and events so they can see firsthand how I approach things as CEO. From there, I give them opportunities to take ownership with my oversight and eventually let them run with it.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “A good market can make people complacent, because deals come easy when conditions are strong. But the great brokers stand out when the market is tough – when deals are harder to find and relationships make all the difference.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Two qualities stand out to me: humility and curiosity. Humility allows leaders to acknowledge mistakes, accept feedback, and create space for others to succeed. Curiosity drives innovation, encourages new ways of thinking, and keeps leaders connected to the people and ideas shaping the future. Together, those qualities build trust while keeping organizations adaptable and forward-looking.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “I’d swap with Brian Niznansky (of TMJ4). I’ve wanted to be a meteorologist my whole life. Weather isn’t just fascinating, it impacts everyone every day.”

FOUNDER

F STREET | MILWAUKEE

MILWAUKEE-NATIVE Scott Lurie is the founder of F Street, a Milwaukee-based commercial real estate development and investment firm. What was originally established in 2004 as an investment firm and hospitality group has now expanded into the development space with notable projects including an apartment complex in Brown Deer and a large residential development in Oak Creek, called Lakeshore Commons. Last year, the company wrapped up the construction of phase one of Lakeshore Commons, which included two apartment buildings with a combined 199 units, 28 townhomes for sale, 28 townhomes for rent and nearly 60 single-family lots.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, George Washington University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “We launched F Street Edge and Sync, our new private credit platform that helps others offer their own private lending service through an extensive partnership with F Street. It leverages the scale and infrastructure of The Hard Money Co. to bring new capital into private credit. We have also scaled our national footprint and are on pace to nearly double the amount of money we lent out last year.”

HELPING NEW EMPLOYEES WITH COMPANY CULTURE: “We put them in the room. Our culture is fast-paced, transparent, and built on accountability. New hires get real exposure on day one. No babysitting, just real work and real outcomes.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Clarity. Speed. Grit. If you can’t clearly communicate vision and make decisions quickly, someone else will.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “They overcomplicate everything. Too many meetings. Too many opinions. Business isn’t that hard – create value, build trust and repeat.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Smash burgers on the flat top. Quick, easy and a family favorite.”

John K. Livesey PRESIDENT LIVESEY COMPANY | MIDDLETON

JOHN K. LIVESEY is the president of Middleton-based commercial real estate development firm Livesey Company. He joined the company in 1986, succeeding his father and company founder John P. Livesey. The company has been developing real estate for over 50 years and has developed more than 10 million square feet of commercial real estate in Wisconsin. Some of its most notable projects include M3 Insurance’s Madison headquarters, Navitus’ Madison headquarters, and several UW Health system buildings across the state. Livesey Company currently owns and operates a portfolio of more than 1.5 million square feet of developed commercial buildings in the state.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Elmira College; master’s, UWMadison

S.R. Mills

CEO

BEAR REAL ESTATE GROUP | KENOSHA

S.R. MILLS is the chief executive officer of Kenosha-based Bear Real Estate Group, a family of real estate development, construction and property management companies. Mills joined Bear Real Estate Group in 2002. Prior to his career with Bear, he worked with several technology companies in northern California. Bear’s footprint of active projects and real estate holdings includes assets in more than 20 states, and the company has offices in Kenosha, Madison, Milwaukee, Chicago and Jackson, Wyoming. The firm is working on development of a soccer stadium planned as part of its Iron District in downtown Milwaukee. Earlier this year, Bear sold the site for the stadium to an affiliate of a Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce nonprofit subsidiary. Construction of the soccer stadium has yet to move forward.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, St. Cloud State University; master’s, Roosevelt University

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My father taught me the word ‘no’ can be a complete sentence, and at times doesn’t need to be justified.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “The belief that the customer is always right. While we always need to listen to them, it doesn’t always make them right.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’ Usually waiting for something to break means you’re too late.”

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: “‘Never Split the Difference’ by Chris Voss.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “Typically I go to the gym, but when I can’t, I at least leave my desk and go for a walk.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Snowboarding or surfing with my son.”

Scott Lurie

Matt Moroney CEO

WANGARD PARTNERS |

MILWAUKEE

MATT MORONEY is the CEO of Milwaukee-based real estate development firm Wangard Partners. Previously, Moroney served as executive director of the Metropolitan Builders Association, deputy secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, deputy chief of staff for former Gov. Scott Walker, and strategic economic initiatives director for the State of Wisconsin. He is chair-elect of the Waukesha Business Alliance board, and a board member for the Downtown Milwaukee Business Improvement District, Citizens Bank and NAIOP Wisconsin.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Loras College; J.D., University of Iowa COMPANY SUCCESS IN PAST 12 MONTHS: “We pride ourselves on our innovative approach to real estate which helps us attract and retain investors. This past year, we acquired Kohl’s Industrial Center and converted it from an office building into an industrial building with a very aggressive timeline. The rapid acquisition and conversion truly showcased our talented team’s deep-market knowledge, strategic mindset and performance.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Treating everyone well, truly listening to other viewpoints, being authentic to yourself in leading, communicating goals and empowering those around you to achieve them, and then celebrating their success.”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “We’ll evolve from a single state to a multi-state operation and balance the increased use of technology tools without losing the importance of human interaction with clients and teammates.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “A storm chaser. It would be a great way to see a lot of America and witness firsthand the power of nature.”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “A fish fry and an old fashioned on a Friday night is the right way to start the weekend.”

Matt

RINKA | MILWAUKEE

MATT RINKA is founder and partner of the architectural firm RINKA, the company that has done design work for several iconic buildings in the Milwaukee area, including downtown residential towers The Moderne and The Couture, the R1VER development and the Milwaukee Bucks’ Deer District. Rinka founded Milwaukeebased RINKA in 2006 and has grown the firm to 46 employees. A second office in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, opened in 2022. Rinka is chairman of the board for the UWM Foundation, is a member of Froedtert Hospital’s board of directors and is an emeritus member of the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design board of trustees.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Milwaukee; master’s, University of Washington COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Our most significant success at RINKA this past year and always has been our talented teams’ consistent delivery of amazing and impactful projects for our visionary clients. Of course, while The Couture has changed Milwaukee’s skyline forever, we are proud of the positive impacts that all our projects have for our clients, their employees and patrons and our communities!”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLE: “Ego.”

QUALITIES OF

A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS

LEADER: “Today, I believe the most important quality of a successful business leader is the ability to distill simple solutions in a complex world. The ability to do this strategically with book and street smarts, recognition of the unknowns and with empathy are paramount to leading a company for the long term.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “In our industry, the biggest mistake is architects/firms undercutting each other in a race to the bottom, which is unsustainable.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Learning to play golf, emphasis on ‘learning.’”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “Steaks on the grill!”

Kevin Newell

FOUNDER AND CEO

ROYAL CAPITAL GROUP

MILWAUKEE

KEVIN NEWELL is the founder and CEO of Milwaukee-based real estate development firm Royal Capital Group. Newell became the first African American to build and own a multifamily commercial development in downtown Milwaukee. He is the developer and owner of Five Fifty Ultra Lofts, a mixed-use housing development in the Milwaukee Bucks’ Deer District. Newell founded Royal Capital in 2010 with a focus on urban development and innovation. Royal Capital partnered with the Greater Milwaukee Foundation and the Medical College of Wisconsin to form the ThriveOn Collaboration, which led the redevelopment of the former Gimbels-Schuster’s building on North Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Milwaukee into the ThriveOn King mixed-use project.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, UW-Whitewater

JIM VILLA has served as the chief executive officer of Wisconsin’s NAIOP chapter since 2016. NAIOP Wisconsin is part of the national NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association. Wisconsin NAIOP represents nearly 400 individual members working at more than 150 businesses across Wisconsin. Previously, Villa was executive director of the Real Estate Alliance for Charity, vice president of university relations at the University of Wisconsin System and president and CEO of the Commercial Association of Realtors Wisconsin. Earlier in his career he worked for Gov. Tommy Thompson, as chief of staff for state Senator Alberta Darling and as chief of staff for Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 YEARS: “In February of 2025, NAIOP Wisconsin was named the chapter of the year by NAIOP Corporate. This is a reflection of the chapter’s continued cuttingedge programming, member service and public policy advocacy. The recognition also affirms the chapter’s continued member-driven management style that puts our members in charge.”

YOUR INDUSTRY’S CAREER OBSTACLES: “For our members it is uncertainty. Development works best when you can eliminate the uncertainty and be ahead of the curve on upcoming challenges.”

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Driven, collaborative – everyone wins when the team wins, open minded, listens to hear.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “Tommy Thompson: ‘You have two ears and one mouth, use them in that proportion.’”

HOW YOUR JOB WILL EVOLVE: “As the organization continues to grow, my focus will shift less on the day to day and more on ensuring our recently updated five-year strategic plan is taking root and flourishing.”

IF YOU COULD SWAP JOBS FOR A MONTH: “Any White House chief of staff: I think a month in that job would be the most incredible (and likely humbling) experience.”

GETTING UNSTUCK CREATIVELY: “Take a walk, bike ride, or anything that gets the body moving.”

Jim Villa CEO NAIOP WISCONSIN | MILWAUKEE

Rinka PARTNER

Tim Wallen PRINCIPAL AND CEO MLG COMPANIES | BROOKFIELD

TIM WALLEN is chief executive officer of MLG Companies, a Brookfield-based real estate operator and private equity real estate investment firm. Wallen joined MLG in 1989 as chief financial officer and principal and assumed the role of CEO in 2000. He serves on the board of directors and is also an officer for its affiliated companies, MLG Capital, MLG Development and MLG Management. MLG has offices in Brookfield, Dallas, Sarasota and Denver and has assets in more than 20 states totaling more than 50 million square feet of real estate. MLG has been recognized four times as one of the Inc. 5000 fastest-growing private companies.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, UW-Madison

CEO

ZILBER LTD. | MILWAUKEE

IN DECEMBER 2024, Bill Wigchers was named Zilber Ltd.’s chief executive officer, a role he would begin in March of 2025. The diversified real estate company is best known for its residential and commercial developments throughout Wisconsin, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, California and Hawaii. Wigchers joined the company in 1998 and has served in a variety of roles throughout his 25 years with the company. He was named president in 2023 and CEO two years later. The company’s prolific philanthropic arm, The Zilber Family Foundation, also announced a new executive director just one month after Wigchers was named CEO.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Chicago; J.D., UW-Madison

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS LEADER: “Surrounding yourself with smart, hard-working people and listening to what they have to say.”

KEY LESSON FROM YOUR MENTOR: “My father taught me to understand that no matter how smart or talented you are, there is always someone else smarter or more talented. Do the best with what you have been given.”

FAVORITE HOBBY OR LEISURE ACTIVITY: “Fishing or golfing with my wife.”

FAVORITE GADGET OR TECH: “My iPad.”

FAVORITE PODCAST: “‘Sound Up! with Mark Goodman and Alan Light.’”

MOST REWATCHED MOVIE: “‘What About Bob?’”

WHAT’S QUINTESSENTIALLY WISCONSIN: “A long day of smallmouth bass fishing in Marinette County on the Menominee River followed by a nice fish fry with friends and family at the Corner Grille.”

Jeff

Weyers

OWNER

COMMERCIAL HORIZONS | GREEN BAY

JEFF WEYERS is one of three co-owners of Green Bay-based real estate development firm Commercial Horizons. In the past 25 years, Commercial Horizons has acquired and developed over 8 million square feet of commercial, retail, office and industrial properties across seven states, with a concentration in Wisconsin. Its notable projects include UnitedHealth Group’s De Pere location, Encapsys’ world headquarters in Appleton and both of Festival Foods’ headquarters buildings in West Onalaska and De Pere.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; J.D., UW-Madison

Scott Yauck

FOUNDER, PRESIDENT AND CEO

COBALT PARTNERS | MILWAUKEE

SCOTT YAUCK is president and CEO of Cobalt Partners, a Milwaukee-based real estate development firm he founded in 2005. Yauck has experience in several areas of real estate development including entitlement, construction, leasing, acquisition and divestiture, brownfield development, tax incremental and municipal bond financing, and conventional financing. Under Yauck’s leadership, Cobalt has built a $750 million portfolio of transformative projects across southeastern Wisconsin. The firm is best known for taking on complex suburban developments, including Whitestone Station in Menomonee Falls, 84South and Loomis Crossing in Greenfield, Allis Yards in West Allis and OneNorth in Bayside. Prior to his real estate career, Yauck worked as a real estate and business attorney at Quarles & Brady and then ran a Menomonee Falls manufacturing firm from 1998 to 2005, growing it from roughly $2 million to $40 million in annual revenue.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and J.D., Marquette University

COMPANY SUCCESS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS: “Our biggest success this past year has been unifying Cobalt Partners into a fully integrated platform – spanning real estate, ventures and innovation – which has enabled us to advance over $750 million in high-impact projects across Wisconsin. We also formalized a capital platform and launched ventures in hospitality, wellness and proptech.”

ONE MISTAKE LEADERS MAKE: “One of the most common mistakes I see is confusing activity with progress – leaders staying busy instead of staying focused. In a fast-moving environment, it’s easy to get pulled into reacting rather than intentionally leading.”

PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL ADVICE YOU IGNORE: “I’ve heard, ‘Stay in your lane’ more than a few times and I’m glad I ignored it. Some of our best ideas, projects and partnerships came from crossing disciplines, markets and business models.”

GO-TO DISH AT HOME: “At home, I usually go for seared salmon paired with a leafy green salad, fresh vegetables and a generous drizzle of olive oil – clean, simple and Mediterranean-inspired. I like meals that feel fresh and intentional.”

Bill Wigchers

Valerie Hill

LIVING LEGENDS

living legends

112 Bergstrom, John

112 Blain Gilbertson, Jane

112 Boldt, Tom

112 Checota, Joe and Ellen

113 Culver, Craig

113 Faulkner, Judy

113 Frautschi, Jerome & Rowland Frautschi, Pleasant

114 Gruber, David

114 Hammes, Jon

114 Hendricks, Diane

115 Keane, Tim

115 Klappa, Gale

116 Linton, Bill

116 Magulski, Jay

116 Mandel, Barry

116 Mardak, Keith & Vandenberg, Mary

117 Menard Jr., John

117 Mooney, Mike

118 Ramirez, Gus

118 Stone, Peter

118 Zietlow, Don

John Bergstrom CO-FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN BERGSTROM AUTOMOTIVE | NEENAH

JOHN BERGSTROM is the co-founder and executive chairman of Bergstrom Automotive, the largest auto dealership business in Wisconsin and one of the largest privately held automotive retailers in the U.S. Bergstrom and his brother, Richard, founded the Neenah-based automotive retailer in 1974, following several other entrepreneurial pursuits. Today, Bergstrom Automotive has over 2,500 employees across its 50 locations statewide. The company has grown through a series of acquisitions in recent years, including several dealerships in the Green Bay area.

Bergstrom has served on many corporate boards, including WEC Energy Group, Banta Corp., Kimberly-Clark Corp., Midwest Express Holdings Inc., Sensient Technologies Inc., the National Association of Corporate Directors, Associated Bank and the Green Bay Packers. He was inducted into the Wisconsin Business Hall of Fame in 2023.

Bergstrom is a fixture in the Fox Cities thanks to his philanthropy and community involvement. He helped lead the $45 million campaign to build the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, with Bergstrom Automotive being one of the first and largest contributors to the project. The venue opened in downtown Appleton in 2002.

More recently, Bergstrom personally spearheaded the initiative to build a Rockefeller Center-like outdoor ice rink in downtown Neenah and led a group of investors to fund the project as a gift to the city. The ice rink opened in 2021.

In 2022, he purchased a former elementary school property from the Neenah Joint School District and gifted it to ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Neenah. The site is now being developed into townhouses to support ThedaCare’s new physician residency program. In 2023, he donated the land on which the new Neenah Animal Shetler was built.

In addition to his personal contributions, Bergstrom Automotive provides ongoing support for local community organizations, including Make-A-Wish Wisconsin, United Way and Drive for a Cure.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University

Tom Boldt

CHAIRMAN

THE BOLDT GROUP | APPLETON

TOM BOLDT led The Boldt Group as chief executive officer for 26 years before transitioning to chairman of the board in 2024. He represents the fourth generation of family leadership at the employeeowned group of companies, which includes construction firm The Boldt Co.

The Boldt Group has 18 offices nationwide and serves clients in health care, power, industrial, education, automotive and commercial markets. Tom Boldt is credited as one of Wisconsin’s first supporters of green construction and is known for his commitment to sustainable building and continuous improvement in the design, engineering, and construction industries. He has held various executive positions in his more than 40 years with the company and is a frequent speaker on business ethics, safety and “green” building.

Boldt serves on the board of directors of the Wisconsin Environmental Initiative, a group that promotes responsible businesses, sound environmental policy, green building and water stewardship. He also serves on the board of the Nature Conservancy in Wisconsin, Great Lakes Higher Education Corp., Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the University of Wisconsin-Madison Engineering Department Industrial Advisory Board, among others. His past service included being a trustee of the State of Wisconsin Investment Board, president of the Appleton Family YMCA, chair of the Aldo Leopold Foundation, board president of the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts & Letters and chair of the Wisconsin Academy Foundation. He was inducted into the Wisconsin Safety Hall of Fame and named Constructor of the Year by the American Institute of Constructors, among other honors.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, St. Olaf College

Jane Blain Gilbertson

EXECUTIVE CHAIR AND OWNER

BLAIN’S FARM & FLEET | JANESVILLE

JANE BLAIN GILBERTSON is executive chair and sole owner of Blain’s Farm & Fleet, a 45-store retail chain, and Blain Supply Inc. The two companies employ over 5,500 associates.

Blain Gilbertson’s father and uncle founded Blain’s Farm & Fleet in 1955. Initially uninterested in joining the family business, Blain Gilbertson started her career out of college as a buyer for Macy’s but later moved to Blain’s Farm & Fleet in 1985, beginning as a children’s apparel buyer. Following the death of her uncle and father, Blain Gilbertson and her brother, Robert, bought the business in 1998. The siblings ran the business together for 16 years until Robert’s retirement, at which point Blain Gilbertson bought him out. Prior to becoming chief executive officer, Blain Gilbertson had responsibility for various parts of the business, including marketing, merchandising, buying, e-commerce and store operations. In September 2024, she retired after 10 years as CEO. She’s since praised the transition to the company’s first non-family CEO, Mark Hasting.

Outside Blain’s Farm & Fleet, Blain Gilbertson also supports the Janesville community. She and her husband, Mick, were the driving forces behind the Blain Gilbertson Family Heritage Bridge, a pedestrian bridge in downtown Janesville that spans the Rock River and joins the Town Square’s east and west sides. The bridge replaced a dilapidated parking ramp.

In 2022, her family established a full-ride scholarship at Blackhawk Technical College, providing financial assistance to students studying agriculture, business, transportation, or distribution and logistics, and made a $100,000 donation to the college’s new Center for Transportation Studies building.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Miami University (Ohio)

FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN, LANDMARK HEALTHCARE FACILITIES

PHILANTHROPISTS | MILWAUKEE

JOE AND ELLEN CHECOTA have left their mark on Milwaukee’s arts, culture and education sectors, having made a series of major investments over the past decade. Joe retired in fall 2024 as chairman and chief executive officer of Landmark Healthcare Facilities LLC, the Milwaukee-based health care real estate development company he founded and continues to guide as executive chairman.

His wife, Ellen, was the driving force behind their first significant philanthropic gift: a $400,000 donation to the Milwaukee Art Museum in 2016. In 2021, the couple gave $5 million to the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra’s fundraising campaign for the Bradley Symphony Center, a contribution that is recognized in the venue’s Ellen & Joe Checota Gallery and Ellen & Joe Checota Atrium. The following year, they established a scholarship at Milwaukee Area Technical College, to which they have so far given $4 million and have generated another $2 million in matching gifts.

In early 2025, they gave an undisclosed gift to Milwaukee Repertory Theater’s $75 million capital campaign – the second-largest charitable contribution in the organization’s history. The Rep’s new flagship performance space, the Checota Powerhouse Theater, recognizes that gift. In an effort to bolster their endowments and widen their donor bases, the Checotas have also pledged to make $5 million challenge gifts to the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, the Milwaukee Rep and Milwaukee Art Museum. The challenge gifts could eventually produce a total of $30 million across the three organizations’ endowments. Joe has publicly credited Ellen, who is an artist, with helping him understand the importance of investing in the community’s arts and culture organizations.

Joe and Ellen Checota

Craig Culver CO-FOUNDER

CULVER’S | PRAIRIE DU SAC

CRAIG CULVER built the restaurant chain serving up two of Wisconsin’s most iconic foods: ButterBurgers and frozen custard.

Born and raised in a restaurant family, Culver spent his first years out of college managing a McDonald’s restaurant and later helping run restaurants owned by his parents. In 1984, the family –including Craig; his wife, Lea; and parents, George and Ruth – purchased an A&W restaurant property in Sauk City, which would become the first Culver’s location. Craig ran the restaurant.

Culver’s first successful franchised restaurant opened in Baraboo in 1990. The restaurant began multiplying throughout the Midwest over the next decade and nationally throughout the early 2000s. The company established the Culver’s Foundation in 2001, which supports local nonprofits and offers scholarships to employees; it has awarded more than $6 million in scholarships to more than 4,000 employees to date.

Under Craig Culver’s leadership, the company grew from a single restaurant to more than 530 locations and $1 billion in revenue until 2015, when he stepped down as CEO. Since his retirement, the chain has continued to grow its presence throughout the U.S., with more than 1,000 locations across 26 states and more than 50,000 employees.

Culver remains chairman of the board and the face of the brand, and the Culver family continues to hold majority ownership of the company. He was inducted into the Wisconsin Business Hall of Fame in 2016. He remains a sought-out speaker for his business insights.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Oshkosh

Jerome Frautschi and Pleasant Rowland Frautschi

PHILANTHROPISTS | MIDDLETON

JEROME “JERRY” FRAUTSCHI AND PLEASANT ROWLAND

FRAUTSCHI have transformed downtown Madison’s city scape and arts scene through a series of investments over the past 40 years.

Jerry Frautschi donated $205 million to establish the Overture Center for the Arts, a performing arts center and art gallery that opened in 2004 and today hosts nearly 500,000 artistic and educational “experiences” annually. The gift is cited as one of the largest gifts to the arts from a single donor in the country. Other projects followed. The couple led the redevelopment of the 100 block of State Street and led a group of invevstors to close a financing gep for the Edgewater Hotel’s expansion. Frautschi has renewed his support for the Overture Center and Madison’s downtown over the years, including two $10 million gifts for the Wisconsin Historical Society’s new building.

He’s donated millions more to support Madison College scholarships as well as many other arts and education-related nonprofits. The Jerry Awards, the statewide high school musical awards program, is named after him in recognition of his support for the arts.

A Korean War Navy veteran, Frautschi ran Webcrafters, a family-owned printing company, with his brother, John, for 42 years.

Rowland founded the American Girl doll company and built Pleasant Company into an iconic brand before selling the company to Mattel in 1998 for $700 million.

After retiring from the company in 2000, Rowland formed the Pleasant T. Rowland Foundation to support arts, education and historic preservation. Frautschi and Rowland’s philanthropic interests often complement one another. For example, Rowland founded the Great Performance Fund, a $46 million endowment to support the Overture Center.

Among her most enduring contributions to the city’s downtown, she created Concerts on the Square, a free, public summer concert series that has run for over 40 years.

Rowland has made major gifts to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, including a child care center at the Waisman Center, a gallery in the Chazen Museum of Art and the endowment of the directorship for a textile studies center within the School of Human Ecology. Her philanthropy also saved Red Pine Camp in northern Wisconsin from development, endowed a gallery at the Milwaukee Art Museum, provided the lead gift for the restoration of Ten Chimneys in Waukesha and funded the construction the Meriter Retirement Center’s aquatic center in Madison.

FOUNDER AND CEO

EPIC SYSTEMS | VERONA

JUDY FAULKNER co-founded Epic Systems in 1979 with an investment of $70,000 from friends and family and a staff of three half-time employees. Today, the health care software company has roughly 14,000 employees, making it one of the largest employers in Dane County. A computer programmer, Faulkner reportedly owns an estimated 43% of the company. Epic’s electronic health records software is widely used in hospitals, academic medical centers and clinics worldwide; more than 325 million patients have a current electronic record in Epic, according to the company.

Epic generated a reported $5.7 billion in revenue in 2024 and ranks No. 141 on Forbes’ list of America’s largest private companies. Its sprawling Verona campus has had a major impact not only on the city’s population, but also on the entire Madison metropolitan area. An employer of many recent college graduates, the company is credited with helping keep young people in the region.

Called the “most powerful woman in health care” by Forbes, Faulkner has an estimated net worth of $7.8 billion. She has pledged to give 99% of her assets to philanthropy. She’s told Forbes that she sells around $100 million of her company shares annually back to the company, with proceeds benefiting the Roots & Wings Foundation, a charitable organization established by her and her husband, Gordon Faulkner. The Seattle-based foundation, which launched in 2020 under the leadership of their daughter, Shana Dall’Osto, makes grants nationally, with a focus on Wisconsin, Washington and Oregon.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Dickinson College; master’s, UW-Madison

Judy Faulkner

David Gruber

FOUNDER AND CEO

GRUBER LAW OFFICES | MILWAUKEE

DAVID GRUBER is the founder and chief executive officer of Gruber Law Offices, a Milwaukee-based personal injury law firm known for his catchphrase: “One Call…That’s All!” For over 35 years, Gruber has been the face and voice of the law firm’s brand. Under his leadership, Gruber Law Offices has grown to include more than 130 employees. Among its lawyers are members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, a group limited to lawyers who have won multimillion-dollar settlements for their clients. In addition to their personal injury work, Gruber and his son, fellow attorney Steven Gruber, have also been involved in sports law and contract negotiations.

A native of Passaic, New Jersey, Gruber made Milwaukee his home after attending Marquette University Law School, where he met his wife of 40 years, Nancy. Gruber has made significant contributions to Milwaukee’s business and philanthropic communities. He has been featured as a mogul on the WISN-12 television show ‘Project Pitch It,’ where he mentors Wisconsin entrepreneurs. Gruber and his firm support numerous charitable organizations, including Milwaukee Urban League, the MACC Fund, Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee and of Kenosha, Independence First, Make-A-Wish, Hometown Heroes, Sojourner Family Peace Center, UW Carbone Cancer Center, the LGBT Community Center, Feeding America, House of Peace, United Community Center and the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation.

Gruber is seen frequently at local sporting events, cheering for the Milwaukee Bucks, Brewers and Admirals, and Marquette Golden Eagles, UW-Milwaukee Panthers and Wisconsin Badgers teams.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Delaware; J.D., Marquette University Law School

Jon Hammes

MANAGING PRINCIPAL, HAMMES PARTNERS

CHAIRMAN AND CEO, HAMMES HEALTHCARE HAMMES CO. | MILWAUKEE

SINCE FOUNDING HAMMES CO. in 1993, Jon Hammes has led the health care real estate company into a nationally recognized firm specializing in strategic planning, facility development and real estate advisory services for health systems and providers across the U.S. The company has also managed the construction of several major sports facilities, including the Kohl Center at UW-Madison, Ford Field for the Detroit Lions, MetLife Stadium for the New York Giants and New York Jets, and U.S. Bank Stadium for the Minnesota Vikings as well as the expansion of Lambeau Field in Green Bay. Before founding Hammes Co., Hammes was a managing partner at Trammell Crow Co., where he oversaw operations throughout the Midwest and Canada and served on the firm’s management board.

Hammes has long been active in higher education and area nonprofits. He is a trustee and past chair of the Medical College of Wisconsin board of trustees and serves as an emeriti trustee of Marquette University, a board member of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and a board member for the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation. Hammes is also part of the Milwaukee Bucks’ ownership group.

He and his wife, Ann, have made substantial donations to educational institutions, including $1 million to fund a new athletic complex at Case High School in his hometown of Racine. They donated $2 million to the Marquette University and Medical College of Wisconsin department of biomedical engineering, the largest donation to-date to the joint department. He and a dozen other University of Wisconsin School of Business alumni donated a collective $85 million to the school in 2007, the largest single donation ever given to the university.

He served as chair of the State of Wisconsin Investment Board under former Gov. Tommy Thompson, and later as co-chair of former Gov. Scott Walker’s 2016 presidential fundraising campaign.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; master’s, UW-Madison

CHAIR, OWNER AND CO-FOUNDER, ABC SUPPLY OWNER, HENDRICKS HOLDING CO. | BELOIT

DIANE HENDRICKS co-founded ABC Supply with her late husband, Ken, in 1982, and has served as chair of the company since his death in 2007. ABC Supply is the country’s largest wholesale distributor of roofing, windows, siding and gutter materials. The company has seen significant growth in recent years, with its revenue more than doubling from $12.1 billion in 2020 to $20.7 billion by 2024. Hendricks led the company through its two biggest acquisitions, Bradco in 2010 and L&W Supply in 2016. The company currently employs roughly 20,000 people and has more than 1,000 locations across the U.S. and Canada. In 2024, the company ranked No. 18 on Forbes’ list of America’s largest private companies. Hendricks’ other company, Hendricks Holding Co., has a portfolio of businesses in manufacturing, logistics, real estate development and construction.

She is credited with transforming Beloit through her philanthropic and real estate investment. Among her development projects were the Phoenix building and the Ironworks Hotel. She founded the Beloit International Film Festival, opened a career center for middle and high schoolers, created a startup hub in a former industrial foundry and funded a performing arts center in a former library building, among other projects.

In recent years, she has invested millions of dollars into downtown Delafield. In 2021, Hendricks Commercial Properties bought 112 acres from St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy in a sale-leaseback deal that allowed the company to build housing on half the land. The company also owns The Grain development and various other commercial and retail locations throughout Delafield.

Hendricks is No. 2 on Forbes’ list of America’s Richest Self-Made Women, with a reported net worth of $22.3 billion. She is also the wealthiest person in Wisconsin, according to Forbes. Hendricks has been a major contributor to the campaigns of Republican politicians, including former Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker and President Donald Trump. She was the top Republican political donor in Wisconsin during the 2024 election.

Diane Hendricks

Tim Keane PRESIDENT, KEANE CONSULTANTS DIRECTOR, GOLDEN ANGEL INVESTORS | BROOKFIELD

TIM KEANE has made a mark on Wisconsin’s startup scene through his mentorship of entrepreneurs and investment in earlystage companies.

Keane’s ventures are many. He founded and serves as director of Golden Angel Investors LLC, one of the oldest and largest angel networks in the state. As president of Keane Consultants, he is an active advisor to revenue-stage companies. He is also a limited partner in several venture and private equity funds. He’s served on the boards of several growthstage companies, including Studentreasures Publishing and Transportation in Kansas City, Missouri; Marolina Outdoor Inc. in Baltimore, Maryland; EmOpti in Brookfield and Promentis Pharmaceuticals Inc. in Milwaukee. He is also a director on the board of First Business Bank in Madison and president of Workspace at Bishop Woods, a private coworking space in Brookfield.

Earlier in his career, Keane worked for GE HealthCare before founding and leading Retail Target Marketing Systems, a software provider of advanced analytics systems for major retailers and financial institutions, now a unit of Fidelity Information Services. The company is credited with pioneering the use of consumer data to increase marketing efficiency for large, national retailers, including Boston Store, Bon-Ton, Sears Canada, Kohl’s, GNC, Kay Jewelers and other brands.

Keane has received numerous industry awards and was inducted into the Wisconsin Tech Council’s Investor Hall of Fame. He has led entrepreneurship programs and taught MBA classes at Marquette University.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; master’s in education, Seattle University

Gale Klappa CHAIRMAN WEC ENERGY GROUP | MILWAUKEE

GALE KLAPPA is chairman of the board of WEC Energy Group, a Milwaukee-based public utility holding company with about 4.7 million electric and natural gas customers across Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota. He has more than 45 years of experience in the energy industry, including more than 30 years in senior executive roles. Klappa joined Wisconsin Energy Corp. in 2003 as president and was elected to the board that year. He was chairman and chief executive officer from 2004 until the company’s 2015 acquisition of Integrys Energy Group, when he assumed the same roles for the newly formed WEC Energy Group. He served as non-executive chairman following his retirement as CEO in 2016, returned as CEO in 2017 and resumed the non-executive chairman role in 2024. Earlier in his career, Klappa held several executive leadership positions with Southern Company, an energy company based in Atlanta.

Klappa is a director of Associated Banc-Corp and co-chairs the Milwaukee 7 regional economic development initiative. He serves on the School of Business Advisory Council at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, his alma mater. An endowed professorship of marketing at UWM is named for Klappa and his wife, Judith, in honor of their service to the university.

His prior board service includes Joy Global Inc., Badger Meter Inc., the Edison Electric Institute and the Electric Power Research Institute. He also owns a minority interest in the Milwaukee Bucks. Klappa has served as a mogul for several seasons of WISN-12’s entrepreneurship show “Project Pitch It.” In 2023, he was inducted into the Wisconsin Business Hall of Fame.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Milwaukee

Thank you and congratulations, Gale

Gale Klappa has been instrumental in helping to further economic development across the region, while working to ensure that Wisconsin has the reliable energy it depends on.

Thank you, Gale, for your insightful leadership as Chairman of WEC Energy Group, and congratulations on being named a BizTimes Milwaukee Living Legend.

Bill Linton CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT AND CEO PROMEGA | MADISON

SINCE FOUNDING Promega Corp. in his garage 47 years ago, Bill Linton has grown the biotechnology company to a global manufacturer of reagents, assays and benchtop instruments for the life science industry. The company has reported annual revenues exceeding $700 million and more than 2,200 global employees, about 1,300 of whom work from its Madison facilities. Linton started the company to provide restriction enzymes to molecular biologists, and today the company has a portfolio of more than 4,000 products that support a range of life science work in areas such as cell biology; DNA, RNA and protein analysis; drug development; human identification and molecular diagnostics.

Under Linton’s leadership, Promega established two nonprofits: Woods Hollow Children’s Center, a nonprofit child care center, and the BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute, which provides community education in biotechnology. Linton also founded and serves as executive director of the Usona Institute, a medical research organization focused on the therapeutic application of psychedelic medicine for mental health conditions. In recent years, the institute opened a 93,000-square-foot center, located near the Promega campus, where it conducts clinical research and trials related to psychedelic therapies. In 2019, Usona received authorization from the Food and Drug Administration to investigate the potential of psilocybin to treat major depressive disorder.

Linton currently serves as a director for the Analytical, Life Science and Diagnostics Association, BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute, Bruker Biosciences, Eppendorf, Heffter Research Institute and Usona Institute.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, University of California, Berkeley

Barry Mandel

CHAIRMAN AND CEO

MANDEL GROUP | MILWAUKEE

MILWAUKEE-NATIVE BARRY MANDEL has left a mark on his hometown by spearheading numerous multifamily housing developments that have helped draw residents to the city. Some of the high-profile projects his firm has developed in Milwaukee include East Pointe Commons and the North End, both on the Lower East Side, the University Club Tower near the downtown lakefront, and Marine Terminal Lofts in the Third Ward.

Mandel is chairman and chief executive officer of Milwaukee-based Mandel Group, which has operations in development, construction and property management. The firm’s focus is urban infill and suburban/urban node luxury multifamily rental communities and mixed-use developments.

Mandel’s influence extends beyond the city and into surrounding suburbs, where his firm has done numerous developments. Mandel Group redeveloped the former School Sisters of Notre Dame’s Elm Grove campus into a 237-unit luxury apartment building, called Caroline Heights Apartments; it is actively developing a new apartment building, called Harlow & Hem, on a city-owned parking lot in Wauwatosa’s village area; and it manages the 244 apartments at The Corners of Brookfield, just to name a few.

Prior to founding his own firm in 1991, Mandel was managing residential partner for Trammell Crow Residential in Wisconsin and responsible for operations in Minneapolis. He began his career as an attorney practicing tax, corporate and real estate law in Kansas City, Missouri.

Mandel has received numerous awards for his contributions to development in Milwaukee. Outside of his real estate work, he is involved in the “I Have a Dream” Foundation, a national nonprofit that provides social, emotional and academic support to young people from low-income communities.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Madison; J.D., Georgetown University Law Center

Jay Magulski

SENIOR ADVISOR LANDMARK CREDIT UNION | BROOKFIELD

WHEN JAY MAGULSKI retires at the end of 2025, he will conclude a 23-year career with Brookfield-based Landmark Credit Union.

Magulski joined Landmark in 2002 and held several positions during his tenure, including chief operating officer, senior vice president and vice president of business development and training. He was named president in 2011 and assumed the role of president and chief executive officer in 2013. He announced in January 2025 his plans to retire at the end of the year; he’s serving as a senior advisor until then. In total, he has over 35 years of experience leading teams within the financial services industry.

Landmark, a not-for-profit financial cooperative, has more than $7 billion in total assets, 35 branches, more than 400,000 members and over 1,000 employees. Under Magulski’s leadership, the credit union developed a new headquarters in Brookfield, made major system upgrades and added new technology and branches. The company was also recently announced as the naming rights sponsor of the new indoor music venue opening in February 2026 in Deer District, Landmark Credit Union Live.

Prior to joining Landmark, Magulski held various positions in retail banking, marketing, training and development, home mortgage and community banking at U.S. Bank.

He currently serves on the La Casa de Esperanza Foundation Board and is active with the United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County. He served as president of the United Way board when the former Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County organizations merged. He’s also served as chair of the United Way Volunteer Engagement Committee and consistently serves on the Annual Campaign Cabinet.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and MBA, UW-Milwaukee

PHILANTHROPISTS | MILWAUKEE

PHILANTHROPISTS Keith Mardak and Mary Vandenberg have helped bring several education and arts projects to fruition in Milwaukee through their charitable giving. Mardak retired in 2020 as chairman and CEO of Hal Leonard, a Milwaukee-based sheet music publishing company, and Vandenberg is former vice president of business affairs for Hal Leonard.

The couple has supported the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center since its inception. Both were donors to the original center and have been principal program partners since. They renewed their support with a $5 million donation to the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center in 2021 in support of its campus expansion. MYAC’s main facility was named in recognition of the gift.

In 2024, they donated $5.25 million to Dr. Howard Fuller Collegiate Academy to support its middle school project and establish recording studios at the middle and high school campuses. In recognition of the gift, the school has named its middle school the MardakVandenberg Campus. In 2021, they made a $3 million matching gift to St. Marcus Lutheran School to support the private, Christian school’s third campus.

The couple are also longtime supporters of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, having established the Mardak Center for Administration and Training, the Daniels/Mardak Boys & Girls Club, the Vandenberg Center for the Arts at the Fitzsimmons Boys & Girls Club, and MarVan Scholars. They also provide funding for college scholarships to Boys & Girls Clubs members through All-In Milwaukee. In addition, they have supported the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra’s capital campaign, the Milwaukee Ballet and Running Rebels.

Keith Mardak and Mary Vandenberg

John Menard Jr. FOUNDER AND OWNER

MENARDS | EAU CLAIRE

JOHN MENARD JR. has grown Menards into the third-largest home improvement retail chain in the U.S., with a reported $13 billion in revenue in 2024.

The retailer has more than 350 stores in 15 states and roughly 45,000 employees.

Menard began building pole barns in 1958 to help fund his college education at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, a venture that evolved into building supplies company Menards Cashway Lumber, from which he sold lumber and building materials to the public. He opened his first hardware store in 1972.

As founder and majority shareholder of the company, Menard ranks among the richest people worldwide, with an estimated net worth of $20 billion, according to Forbes.

Menard is also involved in residential real estate development, having developed several subdivisions in Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana. Through its real estate division, the company acquires land near proposed store locations and then sells lots to local homebuilders who purchase their materials from Menards.

Menard has given back to the Eau Claire community through his philanthropy. Menard donated $15 million in 2008 to support Luther Midelfort Hospital (Mayo Clinic Health System) in Eau Claire, supporting a new emergency department. In 2015, he gave $10 million to the Eau Claire Area YMCA, establishing the John and Fay Menard YMCA Tennis Center. He has given $2.1 million to the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse’s business college, $2.4 million to UW-Stout’s foundation and $3 million to UW-Eau Claire’s Center for Constitutional Studies. Menard also gives regularly to conservative political causes.

Menard has been actively involved in auto racing for decades, and Menards sponsored the winning car at the 2019 Indianapolis 500, driven by Simon Pagenaud.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, UW-Eau Claire

Mike

Mooney

CHAIRMAN EMERITUS AND CO-FOUNDER

MLG CAPITAL | BROOKFIELD

MIKE MOONEY’S 57-year career has had a significant impact on the state’s real estate and economic development landscape. Since co-founding MLG Capital in 1987, he has grown the firm to an affiliation of companies with more than 950 employees and a management team of six principals who have been with MLG for an average of 28 years. The MLG brand includes MLG Capital, MLG Development, MLG Management, Point Real Estate Management, Point Real Estate and Valiant Residential. MLG has acquired about 51 million total square feet of commercial property, including more than 44,000 multifamily units, representing a total market value of over $7.9 billion. Some of Mooney’s clients over the years have included Quad, Harley-Davidson, Gardetto’s, Champion International, Green Giant Foods, CrownZellerbach Paper and Allen-Bradley.

The Wisconsin Economic Development Association awarded Mooney with the 2025 Frederick C. Pearce Award, which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of economic development in the state. A former WEDA board member, Mooney was instrumental in shaping legislative policies related to tax incremental financing. In addition, he is the co-founder, past president and longtime director of NAIOP Wisconsin and director-emeritus of the Waukesha County Business Alliance. He is a member and two-term chairman of the NAI Global Leadership Board, a board member of the Wisconsin Realtors Association and former vice president of the Waukesha County Action Network. He’s also an active supporter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

NATIONAL EXCHANGE BANK & TRUST | FOND DU LAC

PETER STONE is chairman of the National Exchange Bank & Trust, a family-owned financial institution with more than $2 billion in assets and 32 locations throughout southeastern Wisconsin.

Since he joined NEBAT in 1965, the business has grown from a 25-employee bank with a lending limit of $200,000 to having 32 locations throughout southeastern Wisconsin and a lending limit of $75 million. Under Stone’s leadership as chairman and chief executive officer, NEBAT merged with American Bank in 2016, at which point he became chairman of the merged bank, and his son, Eric Stone, became CEO.

Stone also founded two charitable foundations, one through the bank and one private family foundation, for which he serves as chairman. The Stone Family Foundation supports education, especially high schools in NEBAT’s business area. Stone is also a supporter of Ripon College.

Gus

Ramirez

EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN, HUSCO | WAUKESHA

FOUNDER, ST. AUGUSTINE PREPARATORY ACADEMY | MILWAUKEE

AUGUSTIN “GUS” RAMIREZ serves as executive chairman of Husco International, a Waukesha-based manufacturer of hydraulic and electro-mechanical components for automotive and off-highway applications, following his 26-year tenure as chief executive officer. As division general manager in 1985, Ramirez led a management group buyout of the company that eventually became Husco International. He is credited with helping grow the company from $13 million in annual sales to more than $400 million. Husco created several significant innovations in mobile hydraulics controls, receiving more than 100 patents during his tenure. The company – now led by his son, Austin Ramirez – has sizable manufacturing and engineering facilities in the U.S., U.K., China and India, as well as engineering and sales facilities in Germany, Brazil and Korea.

Ramirez and his wife, Becky, have devoted their philanthropy to increasing education access in the U.S. and internationally. The family invested about $50 million to launch St. Augustine Preparatory Academy in 2017. The private, Christian, K-12 school on Milwaukee’s south side had an initial enrollment of 1,500; a $49 million expansion later increased capacity to 2,200.

In 2023, the family’s foundation bought the former Cardinal Stritch University campus for $24 million with a $100 million renovation plan to create a north campus for Aug Prep.

The Ramirez family foundation also helped found Schools That Can Milwaukee (now City Forward Collective) and funded expansions at the United Community Center, Milwaukee College Prep, St. Marcus Schools, Carmen Schools of Science and Technology and others. Through the foundation, Gus and Becky have supported more than 200 schools and 300,000 students in schools across the U.S. and in Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, Puerto Rico and Nicaragua.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s, Georgia Tech; MBA, Harvard University

Don Zietlow

CO-FOUNDER AND FORMER CEO KWIK TRIP INC. | LA CROSSE

AS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER of Kwik Trip for 22 years, Don Zietlow oversaw its growth from a single store in Eau Claire to 800 locations across the Midwest.

Initially a chain of convivence stores, Kwik Trip added gasoline in 1970 and its massive growth followed. Two of three initial investors in the company, Zietlow and business partner John Hansen maintained joint ownership of the business until the Zietlow family bought the Hansen family’s interest in 2000. Soon after, the company executed on a strategy of adding 20 stores per year.

In addition to the proliferation of store locations, under Zietlow’s leadership, Kwik Trip grew its food service infrastructure, making investments in its dairy, kitchen, bakeries and distribution capabilities.

Kwik Trip’s expansion was accelerated by its 2017 acquisition of PDQ locations in the Madison and Milwaukee area, the introduction of fried chicken as part of its hot food section, the addition of take-home meals and the 2021 acquisition of StopN-Go. The vertically integrated company produces 80% of the products featured in stores by its own commissary, bakery, dairy and distribution center located in La Crosse.

Zietlow was also the driving force behind the company’s decision to share 40% of its pretax profits with employees at the end of each year. The company is frequently recognized as a great place to work by local and national publications. Zietlow retired in 2022 after 52 years with the company. Today, Kwik Trip has more than 38,000 employees and nearly 900 stores. It ranked No. 6 on this year’s Deloitte Wisconsin 75 list of the state’s largest privately held companies.

Peter Stone

CHAIRMAN

PAST LEGENDS

Past legends Honorees

Debbie Allen (2022)

President and CEO, DNA Network

Donald and Donna Baumgartner (2022, 2024)

Philanthropists and founder, Paper Machinery Corp.

John Daniels Jr. (2022, 2024)

Chair emeritus, Quarles & Brady

Valerie Daniels-Carter (2022, 2024)

President and CEO, V&J Holding Companies

Howard Fuller (2022)

Founder, Howard Fuller Collegiate Academy

Franklyn Gimbel (2022, 2024)

Founding partner, Gimbel, Reilly Guerin & Brown LLP

Ted and Mary Kellner (2022, 2024)

Philanthropists and founder, Fiduciary Management Inc.

Herb Kohl (2022)

Founder, Herb Kohl Philanthropies

Sheldon and Marianne Lubar (2022, 2024)

Philanthropists, chairman and founder, Lubar & Co.

Stephen Marcus (2022, 2024)

Chairman, The Marcus Corp.

Bud Selig (2022, 2024)

Commissioner emeritus, Major League Baseball

Thelma Sias (2022, 2024)

Founder and CEO, The Sias Group

John Stollenwerk (2022)

Retired CEO, Allen Edmonds

Tommy Thompson (2022, 2024)

Chairman and CEO, Thompson Family Holdings

INDEX BY COMPANY

& Education | Education | Mnookin, Jennifer 83 University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Nonprofits & Education | Education | Gibson, Thomas 83

Credit Union | Banking & Finance | Kundert, Paul

UW Health | Health Care | Kaplan, Dr. Alan

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