We are champions of scale.

Brendan Leonard is President of Finance Services for Crews & co. An accomplished C-suite executive, he is recognized for expertly cultivating profitable growth for business influencers and industry leaders. 

Brendan is an industry-agnostic changemaker undeterred by challenging or uncomfortable scenarios. He brings fresh perspectives and multi-industry learnings to unaccustomed environments.

Motivated to help people fulfill their potential, Brendan employs innovation, urgency, and empowerment to drive revenue, enterprise value, and successful mergers and acquisitions. In 0000, the US President honored Brendan in the Oval Office with the President's "E" Award for Excellence in Exporting.

Brendan earned his MBA from the University of Notre Dame.

Experience

• Brendan has led $50M and $100M+ in brand growth for Samsonite and Hasbro, respectively.
• He has leveraged several strategic private equity exits before pivoting to focus on helping growth-ready, emerging businesses. 

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Passionate about helping companies achieve their growth goals, Eric has guided 100+ organizations to increased and sustainable profitability while simultaneously optimizing their operations and instituting elevated quality of life for their leadership teams.

Eric’s bold approach has converted multiple unorganized, underperforming ventures into streamlined, revenue-generating enterprises. His clients represent a diverse range of industries, including technology, finance, marketing, manufacturing, education, and construction. 

Building on decades of successful entrepreneurship and eight years as a Certified EOS Implementer®, Eric led Crews & co.’s 2021 launch of the Growth Method℠, a proprietary business operating system designed to propel companies to increased revenue, profit, and salable value.  

A graduate of St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Eric is an avid fundraiser for the Special Olympics and the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. He enjoys sailing and running and has completed four Ironman Triathlons and several marathons.

Experience

• Eric is the CEO of CE Painting, an Inc. 5000 honoree and one of the largest commercial painting businesses in New England. 
• He was also the owner of Collegiate Entrepreneurs Painting Services, which offers motivated college students the skills necessary to successfully operate their own small businesses, for 20+ years. 
• Eric spent eight years as a Certified EOS Implementer before leaving the EOS community to develop the Growth Method.

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Jen Strojin oversees Operations at Crews & co. Leveraging strategic and effective communication, Jen provides crucial support to stakeholders and senior executive teams. She is a natural mentor and coach who adeptly builds inspired, results-driven work communities that thrive in their roles. Engaging seamlessly across departments, Jen develops and scales processes that empower transparency and drive growth. 

Jen’s diverse expertise includes digital marketing, account management, business development, strategic planning, sales management, customer service, and negotiation. She is a graduate of Miami University of Ohio and passionate about world travel.

Experience

• Previously at Aisle Rocket, Jen established progressive infrastructures for account management, adding comprehensive, iterative processes that promoted efficiency and integration throughout the organization.
• A Cleveland, Ohio, native and 14-year Chicago resident, Jen is purpose-driven to embrace gratitude and humility through meaningful connections with people and places.

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Jay Bacrania is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. A co-creator of the Growth Method, the firm’s proprietary business operating system, he is driven by the belief that well-run businesses can shape people’s lives in personal and meaningful ways. With more than 20 years of leadership experience, Jay helps entrepreneurial teams navigate challenges, grow their organizations, and achieve even greater success. 

Jay is a Harvard College graduate who also attended Berklee College of Music for Jazz Performance.

Experience

• A natural teacher and coach, Jay is the owner and CEO of Signet Education, a boutique educational services company that has provided premier tutoring to thousands of students since 2005. 
• After spending many years reverse engineering processes and tools to run a better business, Jay spent several years as an EOS Implementer® before transitioning to the Growth Method in 2021.

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Phil Colacchio is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. A strategic planner and creative problem solver with 20+ years of experience, he coaches individuals and businesses toward achieving their potential through sustained growth and profitability. With a special emphasis on small and midsize businesses in industries including consumer packaged goods, pharmaceuticals CPG, cannabis, service and agency, sporting goods, and golf, Phil has advised companies with valuations ranging from $8M to $34B.  

Phil holds a bachelor of science degree in Business Administration, Marketing from the University of Vermont and an MBA in Entrepreneurship from Babson College.

Experience

• For five years prior to joining Crews & co., Phil oversaw rapid growth, start-up, and scale-up initiatives through roles in C-level general management and revenue leadership.
• Phil joined the retail sales workforce at 15 years old and, by 19, was managing one of the largest independent sporting goods stores on the East Coast while attending school full-time on a full scholarship.

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Kris Kaplan is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. At ease in both break rooms and boardrooms, Kris is a tell-it-like-it-is business coach who inspires entrepreneurs and leadership teams to dream bigger, then helps them bring their visions to life. Kris’s progressive business philosophy, combined with his bold guidance, accelerates both personal and professional development among entrepreneurs, executives, and high-performing individuals. 

Kris has been recognized for his insight and understanding throughout all levels of business, where he leverages his lived career experience to drive thoughtful innovation. He holds a degree from Rochester Institute of Technology.

Experience

• Kris grew his retail company, Kris & Co., from $0 to $10 million in annual revenue with almost zero attrition in an industry known for high turnover.
• He has helped develop brands such as Kikkerland, Moleskine, Paddywax, Blue Q, and many others

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Andrew Krebs-Smith is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. He custom-tailors actionable guidance to businesses within the marketing, advertising, finance, and real estate industries, coaching high-performing teams toward growth and sustained value. 

A former founder and owner/operator himself, Andrew leverages the successful growth and sale of his company to offer a wealth of business insight to his clients. He holds a bachelor of arts degree from Loyola University and an MBA from Babson College.

Experience

• For three years in a row, Boston highlighted Andrew’s agency, Social Fulcrum, as one of the city’s fastest-growing companies, prior to its 2019 acquisition by Target Data Corporation. 
• Before progressing to the Growth Method, Andrew practiced as a Certified EOS Implementer®.
• Andrew lives in Pennsylvania with his wonderful family.

Heather Schmidt is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. Goal-focused and growth-minded, Heather’s work is fueled by an unwavering belief in the duality of personal development and professional success. 

Heather honed her coaching acumen throughout 12+ years of entrepreneurship and leadership in hospitality, food and beverage, retail, design, and fitness companies. She excels at helping leaders emerge from their day-to-day business operations to grow thriving organizations and attain their full potential.

She is a voracious endurance trail runner, cyclist, and outdoor adventure enthusiast.

Experience

• Trained as a pastry chef and artisanal baker, Heather launched Union Square Donuts in 2012, successfully growing the brand to multiple locales.
• Heather has also held leadership positions at Thompson Island Outward Bound, Flour Bakery, and Seattle Coffee Works.
• Heather has been featured by Boston Landing, Cambridge Naturals, Fresh Collective, Boston Center for Adult Education (BCAE), NPR, Boston Magazine, Bicycling Magazine, and other noteworthy organizations.

Jennifer Hernan is a Finance Consultant at Crews & co. With 20 years of experience helping companies achieve their growth goals, Jennifer treats her clients’ businesses like her own, going above and beyond to guide teams through whatever challenges arise. She has worked extensively with industries including restaurant, real estate, manufacturing, and small business services, and she derives immense fulfillment from contributing to her client companies’ successes.

After earning her bachelor’s degree from Cleveland State University, Jennifer achieved both her Professional Bookkeeper and Quickbooks Specialist designations from The Universal Accounting Center.

Experience

• Prior to joining Crews & co., Jennifer managed workflows and virtual bookkeeping operations for 10 years, providing day-to-day accounting services, quality control oversight for financial reporting, and client assistance with cloud accounting integrations. 

• A Cleveland Browns fan and avid crafter, Jennifer enjoys watching her daughter’s sports events with her husband of 14 years and playing with the family’s chocolate lab.

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Charles Li is a Finance Consultant at Crews & co. An experienced controller, Charles uses his skills in reporting, budget, forecasting, and analysis to generate financial insights that drive efficiency and profitability within organizations.

Charles provides financial acumen and accountability for clients who may not have the budget or need for a full-time controller or CFO. He is known for his analytical skills and business acumen, keen attention to detail, and unswerving commitment to the highest standards of professional and personal service. Charles is a licensed CPA in Massachusetts and holds a Masters in Accounting from the University of Houston.

Experience

• In addition to his fractional work, Charles is the controller for CE Painting, one of the largest commercial painting companies in New England.
• He is highly experienced in corporate finance and spent many years as Financial Controller for Innovation Group, a large Carlyle Group-owned company.

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Ryan Villanueva is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. and the co-founder of Best Delegate, a K-12 education company that creates student leaders through Model United Nations. He is committed to helping companies succeed while also acting as a force for good in the world.

Ryan has hands-on experience helping businesses achieve growth, profitability, and maximum social impact. A highly sought-after consultant, Ryan routinely advises the United Nations, national governments, foundations, and school districts. He holds a bachelor of arts degree in Political Science from Yale University.

Experience

• Before pivoting to Crews & co.’s Growth Method in 2021, Ryan was a Professional EOS Implementer® with lived experience utilizing proprietary operating systems to achieve company growth. 
• A resident of Somerville, Massachusetts, Ryan is an active member of the Boston chapter of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO), where he previously served as president. 

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Stephen Webster is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. His fearless approach enables companies to capitalize on growth opportunities, solve sales and operational challenges, and eliminate business complexity. Guiding his clients to define clear strategies and defy conventions, Stephen helps leaders and their teams exceed their personal and professional goals by aligning purpose, people, and process.

Stephen received a Bachelor’s in Accounting from Iona College and holds an MBA in Financial Management from the same institution. He also earned his Talent Optimization Consultant Certification from The Predictive Index.

Experience

• Stephen’s industry experience includes technology, artificial intelligence, consumer packaged goods, retail, healthcare, manufacturing, consumer marketing, and SAAS in high-growth, global enterprise, and start-up environments. 
• With over three decades of executive leadership and in-the-trenches business experience, Stephen is a skilled facilitator, strategist, and operational expert. 

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Derek Mohamed is the Managing Director and Wealth Partner at J.P. Morgan and a partner of Crews and co. J.P. Morgan develops wealth management strategies that address your complete financial picture. J.P. Morgan clients work with a single wealth advisor who coordinates a team of banking, investment management, trust, and brokerage professionals who work together and with you to best address your unique situation.

Derek is a highly credentialed Wealth Management Advisor who has extensive experience assisting business leaders and entrepreneurs with the complexities of illiquidity, M&A transactions, life-changing liquidity events, and other unique challenges. He holds numerous professional designations, including CEPA, CPWA®, AAMS®, and CRPC®, and he has been named to the prestigious Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” list several times.

Derek is also passionate about health and fitness and won the world championship as part of Team CrossFit New England at the 2011 CrossFit Games. He holds a degree from Assumption College and has trained at the College for Financial Planning and Investments and Wealth Institute.

Experience

• Over the last 20 years, Derek has successfully built an experienced team to help address affluent clients’ biggest concerns: preserving their wealth, mitigating taxes, taking care of their heirs, helping to ensure that their assets aren’t unjustly taken, and charitable giving.
• A longtime Crews & co. client, Derek generated over 200% growth in his own company, Mohamed-Merola Wealth Management, in just five years.

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John is the Founder and President of Broadreach Staffing Solutions, a Boston-based recruitment firm that  specializes in executive search for high growth businesses. With a team of highly experienced staffing professionals that prides itself on real-world experience, Broadreach has a long track record of successfully placing accomplished professionals in senior-level roles with brand name organizations.

John’s vision for Broadreach began during an extended sailing adventure with his wife and two children. While sailing more than 4,000 nautical miles together, John formulated his plans to return to his most fulfilling business experience – the recruitment industry. 

Broadreach was founded on the principles John values most: building long-lasting relationships with clients and saving them time. The company specializes in retained search for difficult-to-fill roles and requirements. While Broadreach works with a wide range of industries, they primarily focus on serving high-growth companies.

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Experience

• John has previously held senior leadership roles at leading technology companies including Skillsoft, Pulse Learning, and Winxnet.
• In addition to his background in recruitment, John has also worked as an account executive and in sales.

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Katie Heiss is an Accountant at Crews & co. Closely attuned to the intricacies of each client’s unique needs, Katie leverages her naturally responsive engagement style to customize proven processes for businesses eager to meet challenges head-on.

Adept at developing strategies for growth-minded entrepreneurs throughout diverse fields, Katie’s authentically positive outlook is well-placed among high-stress industries where her problem-solving acumen supports informed decision-making and successful advancement for driven owners.

Experience

• Highly skilled, with over 15 years of experience in bookkeeping and accounting, Katie has been QuickBooks certified since 2010 and embodies an exceptional understanding of accounting best practices.
• Katie is the dedicated mom of a curious and active son, and she cherishes family above all. In her personal time, she is an avid reader, home cook, and savvy shopper who always has a true crime documentary in her queue.

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Darren Fredette is a strategic partner and senior advisor to Crews & co. and to the firm’s clients via its Finance Services division. Darren brings significant operational and investment experience, having split his career as a private equity investor and operating company executive.

Most recently, Darren directed the financial operations and corporate strategy of a thermal shipping solutions provider to the biopharmaceutical sector ultimately leading to a successful exit to a private equity backed market leader in the cold chain space. His experience includes capital raising, contract negotiation, finance operations, corporate strategy, department build, integration, and scale-up.

Darren holds a B.S. in Economics, cum laude, with a dual concentration in Finance and Entrepreneurial Management from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Darren is an advisor and consultant to several companies and currently serves on the boards of the Marion Art Center and Christian Fellowship Center.

Experience

• Darren spent the first half of his career in the New York metropolitan area, where he invested in and advised companies across a variety of industries as a private equity professional.
• In addition to leading growth equity investments, Darren oversaw and managed distressed credit investments for the principal finance business of a multi-strategy hedge fund.

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Mark Sapienza is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. He brings a deep, diverse, practical understanding of driving sustained, profitable growth through innovation, business model development, and organizational effectiveness. 

With over 35 years of leadership, marketing, sales, operations, and strategy experience, including over 20 years in executive and C-level roles, Mark has extensive expertise in strategy development and implementation (including EOS), go-to-market strategy and execution, integrations, innovation and product development processes, organizational design, and recruiting and talent management. He has worked with a diverse array of industries, including consumer and B2B durables and consumables, professional services, and industrial products.

Mark holds an MBA from Northwestern University School of Management and a bachelor’s degree in finance from Northern Illinois University.

Experience

• Mark has built and led high-performing organizations ranging from startups and small, private, multi-generational businesses to $2B global organizations.
• His approach to business development is rooted in his belief that “a good strategy executed to perfection always drives better results than a perfect strategy executed poorly.”

Vishal Sachar is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. He combines an entrepreneurial spirit with skills in strategic planning, investment analysis, and project management to help business owners empower their talent and catalyze growth.

A co-founder of multiple ventures, Vishal has 20+ years of experience, including collaborations with top-tier private equity and orchestrating over a billion dollars in real estate transactions.

Vishal loves partnering with clients to navigate the often-stormy journey of entrepreneurship together. He focuses on each client’s unique context and needs, helping them achieve harmonious work-life balance, effective and honest leadership, and tangible business results.

Vishal holds an LLM from Brunel University in London and an MBA from Hult International Business School, Boston. He is also a graduate of the Entrepreneurship Development Program from MIT Sloan School of Management.

Experience

• Vishal is the co-founder and CEO at Vertex Capital, a strategic investment and advisory firm specializing in fostering innovation and growth for early-stage startups.
• His real estate experience includes roles as Group Portfolio Director of Glenwell Group (London) and Head of Sales at Chancellors (UK).
• He is the co-founder and Chairman of the Hult Mentorship club, which helps future leaders, innovators, and trailblazers connect with employers and investors.

Daniel Heck is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. Through 15+ years of experience as a co-founder,  COO, and CFO of multiple successful businesses, Dan has developed a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that small businesses face. He employs his expertise in process documentation, business management, and people development so that business owners can scale their operations, unite their teams, and achieve their goals. 

Dan loves solving complex problems and thrives on helping entrepreneurs accomplish the impossible. He is execution-focused and a stickler for process as a way to drive accountability and obtain real results. A lifelong learner, Dan is an active member of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) and has completed the Entrepreneurial Masters Program (EMP). He loves mountain climbing and is ranked in the top 1% of players on Chess.com. 

Dan holds a BS in Finance from Arizona State and is currently pursuing a BS in Data Science from the University of Maryland Global Campus.

Experience

• Dan was the COO/CFO for Greek Kitchen Management (GKM), a company he also co-founded, for 13 years. During his tenure, he implemented a business operating system in GKM: Crews & co. CEO Eric Crews was his team’s first business consultant.
• He holds certifications in ServSafe Manager, Crucial Conversations, and Crucial Accountability.

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Carisa Miklusak is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. An inquisitive problem solver by nature, Carisa's entrepreneurial spirit drives her passion for scaling organizations and uncovering opportunities. With 20+ years of experience and a strong foundation in revenue leadership and human capital strategy, she excels in transforming businesses and driving growth.

Carisa holds an Executive MBA from Queens University, a Master of Integrated Online Marketing from the University of San Francisco, and a Global Management Masters from Thunderbird and a Bachelors in International Studies from Miami University. She is an active advisor and investor, a member of the GLG Consulting Network, and serves on multiple boards.

Experience

• At CareerBuilder.com, Carisa built multi-million-dollar business units, driving market strategies and increasing sales productivity, helping the company grow from 20M to 712M.

• As the founder and CEO of tilr corporation, she re-engineered the recruitment marketplace, creating significant improvements for employers and workers, exiting in 2020.

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Steve Gradman is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co., recognized for his strategic and results-driven approach to business transformation. With an extensive background across fintech, blockchain, education, consumer goods, and scaling strategies, Steve has successfully led marketing and growth teams in venture and PE-backed startups, as well as large corporations, through critical growth and pivot phases. Guided by his pragmatic philosophy, he delivers impactful results in dynamic business environments.

Steve earned his MBA from Washington University in St. Louis’ Olin School of Business and a BA from the University of Illinois, where he served as Student Body President. He actively engages with numerous startups and serves on advisory boards across various industries.

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Experience

• At CoinFlip, Steve doubled revenue from $50M to $100M, earning Crain’s Chicago Fast Fifty recognition as the fastest-growing company in Chicago for two consecutive years.
• At Accel Entertainment, he built the marketing, business development, and loyalty teams, contributing to $734M in revenue and a successful IPO.
• At Becker Professional Education, Steve led the Accounting and Finance verticals, reversing years of decline driven by low-cost, more nimble competitors. He revitalized the business by leveraging Becker’s strong brand, modernizing the product portfolio, and fostering a community among past customers, positioning it for a successful sale.

Jay Bacrania is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. A co-creator of the Growth Method, the firm’s proprietary business operating system, he is driven by the belief that well-run businesses can shape people’s lives in personal and meaningful ways. With more than 20 years of leadership experience, Jay helps entrepreneurial teams navigate challenges, grow their organizations, and achieve even greater success. 

Jay is a Harvard College graduate who also attended Berklee College of Music for Jazz Performance.

Experience

• A natural teacher and coach, Jay is the owner and CEO of Signet Education, a boutique educational services company that has provided premier tutoring to thousands of students since 2005. 
• After spending many years reverse engineering processes and tools to run a better business, Jay spent several years as an EOS Implementer® before transitioning to the Growth Method in 2021.

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Phil Colacchio is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. A strategic planner and creative problem solver with 20+ years of experience, he coaches individuals and businesses toward achieving their potential through sustained growth and profitability. With a special emphasis on small and midsize businesses in industries including consumer packaged goods, pharmaceuticals CPG, cannabis, service and agency, sporting goods, and golf, Phil has advised companies with valuations ranging from $8M to $34B.  

Phil holds a bachelor of science degree in Business Administration, Marketing from the University of Vermont and an MBA in Entrepreneurship from Babson College.

Experience

• For five years prior to joining Crews & co., Phil oversaw rapid growth, start-up, and scale-up initiatives through roles in C-level general management and revenue leadership.
• Phil joined the retail sales workforce at 15 years old and, by 19, was managing one of the largest independent sporting goods stores on the East Coast while attending school full-time on a full scholarship.

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Kris Kaplan is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. At ease in both break rooms and boardrooms, Kris is a tell-it-like-it-is business coach who inspires entrepreneurs and leadership teams to dream bigger, then helps them bring their visions to life. Kris’s progressive business philosophy, combined with his bold guidance, accelerates both personal and professional development among entrepreneurs, executives, and high-performing individuals. 

Kris has been recognized for his insight and understanding throughout all levels of business, where he leverages his lived career experience to drive thoughtful innovation. He holds a degree from Rochester Institute of Technology.

Experience

• Kris grew his retail company, Kris & Co., from $0 to $10 million in annual revenue with almost zero attrition in an industry known for high turnover.
• He has helped develop brands such as Kikkerland, Moleskine, Paddywax, Blue Q, and many others

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Andrew Krebs-Smith is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. He custom-tailors actionable guidance to businesses within the marketing, advertising, finance, and real estate industries, coaching high-performing teams toward growth and sustained value. 

A former founder and owner/operator himself, Andrew leverages the successful growth and sale of his company to offer a wealth of business insight to his clients. He holds a bachelor of arts degree from Loyola University and an MBA from Babson College.

Experience

• For three years in a row, Boston highlighted Andrew’s agency, Social Fulcrum, as one of the city’s fastest-growing companies, prior to its 2019 acquisition by Target Data Corporation. 
• Before progressing to the Growth Method, Andrew practiced as a Certified EOS Implementer®.
• Andrew lives in Pennsylvania with his wonderful family.

Heather Schmidt is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. Goal-focused and growth-minded, Heather’s work is fueled by an unwavering belief in the duality of personal development and professional success. 

Heather honed her coaching acumen throughout 12+ years of entrepreneurship and leadership in hospitality, food and beverage, retail, design, and fitness companies. She excels at helping leaders emerge from their day-to-day business operations to grow thriving organizations and attain their full potential.

She is a voracious endurance trail runner, cyclist, and outdoor adventure enthusiast.

Experience

• Trained as a pastry chef and artisanal baker, Heather launched Union Square Donuts in 2012, successfully growing the brand to multiple locales.
• Heather has also held leadership positions at Thompson Island Outward Bound, Flour Bakery, and Seattle Coffee Works.
• Heather has been featured by Boston Landing, Cambridge Naturals, Fresh Collective, Boston Center for Adult Education (BCAE), NPR, Boston Magazine, Bicycling Magazine, and other noteworthy organizations.

Ryan Villanueva is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. and the co-founder of Best Delegate, a K-12 education company that creates student leaders through Model United Nations. He is committed to helping companies succeed while also acting as a force for good in the world.

Ryan has hands-on experience helping businesses achieve growth, profitability, and maximum social impact. A highly sought-after consultant, Ryan routinely advises the United Nations, national governments, foundations, and school districts. He holds a bachelor of arts degree in Political Science from Yale University.

Experience

• Before pivoting to Crews & co.’s Growth Method in 2021, Ryan was a Professional EOS Implementer® with lived experience utilizing proprietary operating systems to achieve company growth. 
• A resident of Somerville, Massachusetts, Ryan is an active member of the Boston chapter of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO), where he previously served as president. 

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Stephen Webster is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. His fearless approach enables companies to capitalize on growth opportunities, solve sales and operational challenges, and eliminate business complexity. Guiding his clients to define clear strategies and defy conventions, Stephen helps leaders and their teams exceed their personal and professional goals by aligning purpose, people, and process.

Stephen received a Bachelor’s in Accounting from Iona College and holds an MBA in Financial Management from the same institution. He also earned his Talent Optimization Consultant Certification from The Predictive Index.

Experience

• Stephen’s industry experience includes technology, artificial intelligence, consumer packaged goods, retail, healthcare, manufacturing, consumer marketing, and SAAS in high-growth, global enterprise, and start-up environments. 
• With over three decades of executive leadership and in-the-trenches business experience, Stephen is a skilled facilitator, strategist, and operational expert. 

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Mark Sapienza is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. He brings a deep, diverse, practical understanding of driving sustained, profitable growth through innovation, business model development, and organizational effectiveness. 

With over 35 years of leadership, marketing, sales, operations, and strategy experience, including over 20 years in executive and C-level roles, Mark has extensive expertise in strategy development and implementation (including EOS), go-to-market strategy and execution, integrations, innovation and product development processes, organizational design, and recruiting and talent management. He has worked with a diverse array of industries, including consumer and B2B durables and consumables, professional services, and industrial products.

Mark holds an MBA from Northwestern University School of Management and a bachelor’s degree in finance from Northern Illinois University.

Experience

• Mark has built and led high-performing organizations ranging from startups and small, private, multi-generational businesses to $2B global organizations.
• His approach to business development is rooted in his belief that “a good strategy executed to perfection always drives better results than a perfect strategy executed poorly.”

Vishal Sachar is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. He combines an entrepreneurial spirit with skills in strategic planning, investment analysis, and project management to help business owners empower their talent and catalyze growth.

A co-founder of multiple ventures, Vishal has 20+ years of experience, including collaborations with top-tier private equity and orchestrating over a billion dollars in real estate transactions.

Vishal loves partnering with clients to navigate the often-stormy journey of entrepreneurship together. He focuses on each client’s unique context and needs, helping them achieve harmonious work-life balance, effective and honest leadership, and tangible business results.

Vishal holds an LLM from Brunel University in London and an MBA from Hult International Business School, Boston. He is also a graduate of the Entrepreneurship Development Program from MIT Sloan School of Management.

Experience

• Vishal is the co-founder and CEO at Vertex Capital, a strategic investment and advisory firm specializing in fostering innovation and growth for early-stage startups.
• His real estate experience includes roles as Group Portfolio Director of Glenwell Group (London) and Head of Sales at Chancellors (UK).
• He is the co-founder and Chairman of the Hult Mentorship club, which helps future leaders, innovators, and trailblazers connect with employers and investors.

Daniel Heck is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. Through 15+ years of experience as a co-founder,  COO, and CFO of multiple successful businesses, Dan has developed a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that small businesses face. He employs his expertise in process documentation, business management, and people development so that business owners can scale their operations, unite their teams, and achieve their goals. 

Dan loves solving complex problems and thrives on helping entrepreneurs accomplish the impossible. He is execution-focused and a stickler for process as a way to drive accountability and obtain real results. A lifelong learner, Dan is an active member of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) and has completed the Entrepreneurial Masters Program (EMP). He loves mountain climbing and is ranked in the top 1% of players on Chess.com. 

Dan holds a BS in Finance from Arizona State and is currently pursuing a BS in Data Science from the University of Maryland Global Campus.

Experience

• Dan was the COO/CFO for Greek Kitchen Management (GKM), a company he also co-founded, for 13 years. During his tenure, he implemented a business operating system in GKM: Crews & co. CEO Eric Crews was his team’s first business consultant.
• He holds certifications in ServSafe Manager, Crucial Conversations, and Crucial Accountability.

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Carisa Miklusak is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co. An inquisitive problem solver by nature, Carisa's entrepreneurial spirit drives her passion for scaling organizations and uncovering opportunities. With 20+ years of experience and a strong foundation in revenue leadership and human capital strategy, she excels in transforming businesses and driving growth.

Carisa holds an Executive MBA from Queens University, a Master of Integrated Online Marketing from the University of San Francisco, and a Global Management Masters from Thunderbird and a Bachelors in International Studies from Miami University. She is an active advisor and investor, a member of the GLG Consulting Network, and serves on multiple boards.

Experience

• At CareerBuilder.com, Carisa built multi-million-dollar business units, driving market strategies and increasing sales productivity, helping the company grow from 20M to 712M.

• As the founder and CEO of tilr corporation, she re-engineered the recruitment marketplace, creating significant improvements for employers and workers, exiting in 2020.

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Steve Gradman is a Growth Consultant at Crews & co., recognized for his strategic and results-driven approach to business transformation. With an extensive background across fintech, blockchain, education, consumer goods, and scaling strategies, Steve has successfully led marketing and growth teams in venture and PE-backed startups, as well as large corporations, through critical growth and pivot phases. Guided by his pragmatic philosophy, he delivers impactful results in dynamic business environments.

Steve earned his MBA from Washington University in St. Louis’ Olin School of Business and a BA from the University of Illinois, where he served as Student Body President. He actively engages with numerous startups and serves on advisory boards across various industries.

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Experience

• At CoinFlip, Steve doubled revenue from $50M to $100M, earning Crain’s Chicago Fast Fifty recognition as the fastest-growing company in Chicago for two consecutive years.
• At Accel Entertainment, he built the marketing, business development, and loyalty teams, contributing to $734M in revenue and a successful IPO.
• At Becker Professional Education, Steve led the Accounting and Finance verticals, reversing years of decline driven by low-cost, more nimble competitors. He revitalized the business by leveraging Becker’s strong brand, modernizing the product portfolio, and fostering a community among past customers, positioning it for a successful sale.

Brendan Leonard is President of Finance Services for Crews & co. An accomplished C-suite executive, he is recognized for expertly cultivating profitable growth for business influencers and industry leaders. 

Brendan is an industry-agnostic changemaker undeterred by challenging or uncomfortable scenarios. He brings fresh perspectives and multi-industry learnings to unaccustomed environments.

Motivated to help people fulfill their potential, Brendan employs innovation, urgency, and empowerment to drive revenue, enterprise value, and successful mergers and acquisitions. In 0000, the US President honored Brendan in the Oval Office with the President's "E" Award for Excellence in Exporting.

Brendan earned his MBA from the University of Notre Dame.

Experience

• Brendan has led $50M and $100M+ in brand growth for Samsonite and Hasbro, respectively.
• He has leveraged several strategic private equity exits before pivoting to focus on helping growth-ready, emerging businesses. 

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Jennifer Hernan is a Finance Consultant at Crews & co. With 20 years of experience helping companies achieve their growth goals, Jennifer treats her clients’ businesses like her own, going above and beyond to guide teams through whatever challenges arise. She has worked extensively with industries including restaurant, real estate, manufacturing, and small business services, and she derives immense fulfillment from contributing to her client companies’ successes.

After earning her bachelor’s degree from Cleveland State University, Jennifer achieved both her Professional Bookkeeper and Quickbooks Specialist designations from The Universal Accounting Center.

Experience

• Prior to joining Crews & co., Jennifer managed workflows and virtual bookkeeping operations for 10 years, providing day-to-day accounting services, quality control oversight for financial reporting, and client assistance with cloud accounting integrations. 

• A Cleveland Browns fan and avid crafter, Jennifer enjoys watching her daughter’s sports events with her husband of 14 years and playing with the family’s chocolate lab.

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Charles Li is a Finance Consultant at Crews & co. An experienced controller, Charles uses his skills in reporting, budget, forecasting, and analysis to generate financial insights that drive efficiency and profitability within organizations.

Charles provides financial acumen and accountability for clients who may not have the budget or need for a full-time controller or CFO. He is known for his analytical skills and business acumen, keen attention to detail, and unswerving commitment to the highest standards of professional and personal service. Charles is a licensed CPA in Massachusetts and holds a Masters in Accounting from the University of Houston.

Experience

• In addition to his fractional work, Charles is the controller for CE Painting, one of the largest commercial painting companies in New England.
• He is highly experienced in corporate finance and spent many years as Financial Controller for Innovation Group, a large Carlyle Group-owned company.

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Katie Heiss is an Accountant at Crews & co. Closely attuned to the intricacies of each client’s unique needs, Katie leverages her naturally responsive engagement style to customize proven processes for businesses eager to meet challenges head-on.

Adept at developing strategies for growth-minded entrepreneurs throughout diverse fields, Katie’s authentically positive outlook is well-placed among high-stress industries where her problem-solving acumen supports informed decision-making and successful advancement for driven owners.

Experience

• Highly skilled, with over 15 years of experience in bookkeeping and accounting, Katie has been QuickBooks certified since 2010 and embodies an exceptional understanding of accounting best practices.
• Katie is the dedicated mom of a curious and active son, and she cherishes family above all. In her personal time, she is an avid reader, home cook, and savvy shopper who always has a true crime documentary in her queue.

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Darren Fredette is a strategic partner and senior advisor to Crews & co. and to the firm’s clients via its Finance Services division. Darren brings significant operational and investment experience, having split his career as a private equity investor and operating company executive.

Most recently, Darren directed the financial operations and corporate strategy of a thermal shipping solutions provider to the biopharmaceutical sector ultimately leading to a successful exit to a private equity backed market leader in the cold chain space. His experience includes capital raising, contract negotiation, finance operations, corporate strategy, department build, integration, and scale-up.

Darren holds a B.S. in Economics, cum laude, with a dual concentration in Finance and Entrepreneurial Management from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Darren is an advisor and consultant to several companies and currently serves on the boards of the Marion Art Center and Christian Fellowship Center.

Experience

• Darren spent the first half of his career in the New York metropolitan area, where he invested in and advised companies across a variety of industries as a private equity professional.
• In addition to leading growth equity investments, Darren oversaw and managed distressed credit investments for the principal finance business of a multi-strategy hedge fund.

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Derek Mohamed is the Managing Director and Wealth Partner at J.P. Morgan and a partner of Crews and co. J.P. Morgan develops wealth management strategies that address your complete financial picture. J.P. Morgan clients work with a single wealth advisor who coordinates a team of banking, investment management, trust, and brokerage professionals who work together and with you to best address your unique situation.

Derek is a highly credentialed Wealth Management Advisor who has extensive experience assisting business leaders and entrepreneurs with the complexities of illiquidity, M&A transactions, life-changing liquidity events, and other unique challenges. He holds numerous professional designations, including CEPA, CPWA®, AAMS®, and CRPC®, and he has been named to the prestigious Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” list several times.

Derek is also passionate about health and fitness and won the world championship as part of Team CrossFit New England at the 2011 CrossFit Games. He holds a degree from Assumption College and has trained at the College for Financial Planning and Investments and Wealth Institute.

Experience

• Over the last 20 years, Derek has successfully built an experienced team to help address affluent clients’ biggest concerns: preserving their wealth, mitigating taxes, taking care of their heirs, helping to ensure that their assets aren’t unjustly taken, and charitable giving.
• A longtime Crews & co. client, Derek generated over 200% growth in his own company, Mohamed-Merola Wealth Management, in just five years.

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John is the Founder and President of Broadreach Staffing Solutions, a Boston-based recruitment firm that  specializes in executive search for high growth businesses. With a team of highly experienced staffing professionals that prides itself on real-world experience, Broadreach has a long track record of successfully placing accomplished professionals in senior-level roles with brand name organizations.

John’s vision for Broadreach began during an extended sailing adventure with his wife and two children. While sailing more than 4,000 nautical miles together, John formulated his plans to return to his most fulfilling business experience – the recruitment industry. 

Broadreach was founded on the principles John values most: building long-lasting relationships with clients and saving them time. The company specializes in retained search for difficult-to-fill roles and requirements. While Broadreach works with a wide range of industries, they primarily focus on serving high-growth companies.

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Experience

• John has previously held senior leadership roles at leading technology companies including Skillsoft, Pulse Learning, and Winxnet.
• In addition to his background in recruitment, John has also worked as an account executive and in sales.

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Darren Fredette is a strategic partner and senior advisor to Crews & co. and to the firm’s clients via its Finance Services division. Darren brings significant operational and investment experience, having split his career as a private equity investor and operating company executive.

Most recently, Darren directed the financial operations and corporate strategy of a thermal shipping solutions provider to the biopharmaceutical sector ultimately leading to a successful exit to a private equity backed market leader in the cold chain space. His experience includes capital raising, contract negotiation, finance operations, corporate strategy, department build, integration, and scale-up.

Darren holds a B.S. in Economics, cum laude, with a dual concentration in Finance and Entrepreneurial Management from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Darren is an advisor and consultant to several companies and currently serves on the boards of the Marion Art Center and Christian Fellowship Center.

Experience

• Darren spent the first half of his career in the New York metropolitan area, where he invested in and advised companies across a variety of industries as a private equity professional.
• In addition to leading growth equity investments, Darren oversaw and managed distressed credit investments for the principal finance business of a multi-strategy hedge fund.

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