Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Tampa for 2024. Nestled along the Gulf Coast, Tampa is renowned for its breathtaking beaches and dynamic culture. The city’s economic landscape extends far beyond its cultural allure. Diverging from the conventional focus on tourism and maritime industries, the city has positioned itself as a hub for innovation and technology, attracting major corporations such as Franklin Templeton and WellCare Health Plans. The achievements of this year’s leaders underscore Tampa’s proactive embrace of diverse and impactful leadership. As Tampa continues to shape a forward-thinking economic landscape, these women leaders play a pivotal role in steering their respective organizations toward continuous growth and innovation.
Among this year’s honorees is Gisselle Cerezo, Global Vice President of Commercialization and Strategy at Mastercard, whose executive career spans more than two decades in product development, defining strategic focus, and cultivating key partnerships across the payments and technology landscape. Awardee Patrician Henderson, Principal of Analytics and Cognitive at Deloitte Consulting, has made outstanding contributions to Artificial Intelligence and data solutions in industrial sectors through her expertise in cutting-edge technologies and strategic preparations for business futures. Also awarded is Maggie Burke, Senior Vice President at Capital One's Commercial Real Estate Team, who specializes in advising and supporting commercial property owners and operators across the US in capital markets and debt strategies.
Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders of Tampa for 2024.
1. Tanya McNally
Chief People Officer, Centene
Tanya McNally serves as Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer at Centene, a leading healthcare enterprise committed to helping people live healthier lives. In her role, she leads the Human Resources function and drives strategies to optimize employee and business success. She continues to grow best-in-class talent management programs focused on developing and retaining Centene's more than 74,000 purpose-driven employees.
McNally brings a wealth of experience to the leadership team and believes in the profound impact purpose-driven employees have on driving the company’s mission. Prior to joining Centene through an acquisition of WellCare, she served as Vice President of Human Resources for WellCare for nearly a decade. She also held senior HR roles at companies such as Citigroup and Lehman Brothers. McNally earned an undergraduate degree in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University and a master’s degree in organizational psychology from Columbia University.
2. Carmella Sebastian
Chief Medical Officer, CareCentrix
Dr. Carmella Sebastian is the Chief Medical Officer at CareCentrix and has more than 25 years of deep expertise in making health plans clinically effective. In her role, she is responsible for CareCentrix’s clinical vision, overseeing all aspects of Clinical Strategy and Operations.
Dr. Sebastian previously served as VP of clinical operations at Oscar Health, and before that, held leadership roles at Florida Blue, Humana, and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Northeastern Pennsylvania. Trained in internal medicine, Dr. Sebastian was in active clinical practice before she began working with regional and then national health plans to help ensure members received the best possible quality of clinical care. She earned a Doctor of Medicine from the Medical College of Pennsylvania and a Master of Healthcare Administration from King’s College in Pennsylvania.
4. Maggie Burke
Senior Vice President, Capital One Commercial Real Estate
Maggie Burke serves as Senior Vice President on Capital One’s Commercial Real Estate Team, specializing in advising commercial property owners and operators across the US on capital markets and debt strategies. She provides clients with creative solutions to support their individual business plans through several capital source executions, including Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA, life companies, CMBS, debt funds, and banks.
Burke’s extensive commercial real estate finance experience encompasses originating, structuring, and successfully closing loans across a wide spectrum of asset types – from multifamily, office and retail, to self-storage and industrial. Throughout her career, she has facilitated clients in securing an impressive $6 billion in debt finance transactions.
Burke joined Capital One from Berkadia in 2021 to grow its national platform and continue delivering highly tailored financing solutions, working alongside her partners Jonathan Pratt and Rossana Bouchaya. The team has originated more than $2B in these capital product types within just two years. Notably, they recently closed a 24-property portfolio with Fannie Mae totaling $477M.
Burke is a sought-after industry expert, contributing as a media commentator, panelist, and moderator for The Mortgage Bankers Association’s (MBA) Annual Conference, its Senior Bank Executive Roundtables, Freddie Mac's Customer Conference, and news outlets like Real Estate Forum and Bisnow. She remains deeply committed to industry development and advocacy. She has served as the immediate past Chair of the MBA's mPact Advisory Committee, currently serves as Vice Chair of the MBA's Mortgage Action Alliance, and is active in MORPAC, MBA’s political action Steering Committees.
8. Sylvia Parker
Vice President of the Hispanic/Latino EBRG Segment, Paychex
Sylvia Parker is the Vice President of the Hispanic/Latino EBRG Segment at Paychex, a prominent provider of payroll, human resource, and benefits outsourcing services tailored to small-to-midsize businesses. Beyond her role in the Hispanic/Latino EBRG Segment, Parker is a top-performing consultant in Paychex's Oasis division.
After beginning her career in the professional employer industry in August 1999, Parker found her professional calling when she joined Oasis in May 2004. As an emerging PEO consultant, she invested countless hours in mastering the expertise necessary for success, a dedication that resulted in her earning the prestigious title of the company’s Rookie of the Year. Now, after nineteen years, Parker continues to thrive in her career, consistently ranking as one of the top producers within Oasis’s extensive consultant network each year. Her commitment to ongoing learning remains a driving force in her career, and she takes pride in discovering new insights every day.
Originally from Chicago, Parker has considered Tampa home for almost three decades. Fueled by her deep pride in her Puerto Rican heritage, she is honored to contribute to her community, both within Paychex and across Tampa. With a history of leadership as the former President of Tampa Hispanic Heritage, a nonprofit uniting diverse Hispanic groups in the Tampa Bay Area, Parker presently serves as a council member for the City of Tampa Mayor’s Hispanic Advisory Council. Additionally, her active engagement in the Hispanic Professional Women’s Association has led her to volunteer with Eckerd’s Kids —an organization dedicated to providing support and second chances to youth.
10. Bethlee McLaughlin
Principal Consultant, AscendX Consulting
Bethlee McLaughlin is a results-oriented executive with 15+ years of operational leadership and consulting experience in the electronic retail and financial services industries. She currently serves as a Principal Consultant for AscendX Consulting. Bethlee is known for being a highly effective leader of people who provides clear direction and organizes for action. She leverages diverse talent and obtains results through effective cross-company collaboration.
Prior to AscendX, Bethlee served as an SVP of transformation and PMO for rue21. Before joining rue21, she was an SVP of the project management office with HSN, and before that, a director of quality at Fidelity Investments. Earlier in her career she worked with Bank of Boston as a senior consultant and communications manager. McLaughlin graduated from Brown University with an MBA, from IE Business School with an EMBA, and from Regis College with an undergraduate degree in English and communications.
14. Victoria Kuklina
Chief Financial Officer, Pinnacle Home Care
Victoria Kuklina is a seasoned Chief Financial Officer, often referred to as the 'FinTech CFO,' at Pinnacle Home Care, a leading provider of skilled home health nursing services with a robust presence across 17 locations in Florida with 10,000 patient census. In her role as FinTech CFO, Kuklina is instrumental in guiding Pinnacle towards informed and strategic decision-making, with a strong focus on leveraging information technology to support the company's ambitious consistent 35% YOY growth and innovative tech objectives. Kuklina’s expertise and contributions have been acknowledged with her recognition as a CFO of the Year honoree by Tampa Bay Business Journal in 2021.
Before her tenure at Pinnacle, Kuklina dedicated a decade to CFO consulting, where she spearheaded and nurtured teams through strategic and tactical processes, and successfully steered numerous organizations through critical financial transformations. She graduated from Laurentian University/Université Laurentienne with a Business Commerce degree and holds a Canadian CPA (CGA) designation. With Victoria at the helm, Pinnacle Home Care is poised for sustained success and innovation in the home care industry.
15. Brittany Scott
Vice President of Sales, Zenwork, Inc
Brittany Scott serves as the Vice President of Sales for Zenwork, a digital tax compliance and regulatory reporting technology company that services companies ranging from Allbirds and Deloitte. Prior to the role, she was the VP of SMB sales at KnowBe4, a leading provider of security awareness training.
During her tenure at KnowBe4, Scott played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s transformative journey, contributing significantly to its successful initial public offering in April 2021 and its strategic acquisition by Vista Partners in 2023. She also founded the Women in Technology Employee Resource Group at KnowBe4. Scott's exceptional contributions to KnowBe4's success have earned her numerous awards, notably a 3x Stevie Award for Woman of the Year in Sales – Silver and Bronze winner. She is also the recipient of the SVUS Women in Business and Professions World Awards – Silver Winner.
Brittany was acknowledged as a Top 100 LinkedIn Sales Star for her engaging posts and contributions to thought leadership in both sales and cybersecurity. Additionally, she was awarded the #GirlsClub Mentor of the Year, in recognition of her work coaching women in sales to move into leadership positions. In 2023, Globee awarded her the Gold Business Role Model of the Year. She holds a master's degree in business administration from Johnson and Wales University and an undergraduate degree in hospitality management from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
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19. Kit Robertson
Vice President of Clinical Data Operations, Integra Connect
Kit Robertson is the Vice President of Clinical Data Operations for Integra Connect. She first joined the company in 2018 as the VP of client services. Integra Connect is driven to make specialty care practices clinically and financially successful through value-based, precision medicine. Working with oncology patients and providers for over 30 years, Kit provides an extensive background in the oncology ecosystem. Her previous experience includes serving as the director of operations for a large privately owned multi-specialty cancer organization, administrator of hospice, director of home health, adjunct faculty, and chemotherapy nurse.
Throughout her career, Kit has developed a love for technology and data, leading her to a rich knowledge of EHRs and practice technology. Using those skills, she assists practices with optimizing their experience in utilizing the ever-challenging technology landscape. In her current role, she focuses on building technology that compliments the ever-changing healthcare landscape. Kit earned an undergraduate degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and Dabney S. Lancaster Community College.
20. Dr. Shirley Davis
CEO & President, SDS Global Enterprises
Dr. Shirley Davis is President and CEO of SDS Global Enterprises, a strategic development solutions firm that specializes in human resources strategy; talent management; leadership effectiveness; high performance; and culture transformation. Dr. Davis has over thirty years of experience in a variety of senior executive leadership roles in Fortune 100 & 50 corporations in financial services, banking, manufacturing, and retail sales, as well as in non-profit leadership at the world’s largest human resources association, the Society for Human Resource Management. Her work has been featured by the Wall Street Journal, Forbes Magazine, NBC’s Today Show, USA Today, CBS News, Fox News, CNN.com, Fast Company, CEOWorld Magazine, Harvard Business Review, and many others. In May 2022, her story was featured on the front page of Oprah Daily.
As a result of her contributions and expertise in the HR, Leadership, Business, and DEI fields, she was inducted into Inclusion Magazine’s Hall of Fame in November 2021, and in August 2022 in Nashville, TN she received The Golden Gavel Award which is Toastmasters International’s highest and most prestigious award given to only one person each year. Additionally, she was nominated for Forbes 2021, and 2022 Women 50 Over 50 list.
Dr. Davis has worked in more than 30 countries on 5 continents and delivers more than 100 speeches a year to a wide range of industries, sectors, and sizes. She continues to consult, coach, and train leaders at all levels, including Corporate CEOs, C-Suite executives, and the Board of Directors. She holds an undergraduate degree in pre-law, a master’s in adult education, a second master’s in human resource management, a PhD in business and organizational leadership, and holds more than 10 certifications. She is the author of the Amazon bestseller, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Dummies and Living Beyond “What If?” Release the Limits and Realize Your Dreams. She’s also the author of Reinvent Yourself: Strategies for Achieving Success in Every Area of Your Life and The Seat: How to Get Invited to the Table When You're Over-Performing but Undervalued. Additionally, she is a popular author for eight LinkedIn Learning courses on Leadership and Business/Career Development.
22. Shilpa Saxena
Chief Medical Officer & Medical Director, Forum Health
Shilpa Saxena serves as the Medical Director of Forum Health’s Tampa location as well as the Chief Medical Officer for Forum Health. Dr. Saxena is internationally known for her contributions to the development and institution of the lifestyle-based group medical appointment model with her Group Visit Toolkits and has been awarded for her work with her online patient education platform, Living Wellness University.
Dr. Saxena graduated from the University of Florida College of Medicine through the prestigious Junior Honors Medical Program. She completed her Family Practice residency training at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Jacksonville, Florida while serving as Chief Resident and receiving additional Certification in Low-Risk Obstetrics.
23. Lori Krull
EVP of Property Operations, Sinatra & Co.
Lori Krull is a dynamic leader in the multifamily housing industry, boasting over 30 years of expansive experience. Her current role is Executive Vice President of Property Operations for Sinatra & Company. Her strategic acumen and execution prowess have been instrumental in transforming companies and boosting their performance under diverse market conditions.
One of her significant career achievements was during her tenure at Weller Management, where she served as a managing partner. Under her leadership, she helped grow a local start-up into an 18,000+ unit, multi-state industry powerhouse. Her responsibilities encompassed new business procurement, client relations, financial analysis, annual operating budgets, marketing plans, and corporate policy formation.
Previously, Lori effectively managed thousands of units across multiple states, catering to a diverse client portfolio that includes local entrepreneurs, partnerships, and institutional clients. She is recognized for her ability to forge and maintain lucrative vendor and supplier partnerships, creating substantial value for her clients. Her leadership extends beyond her operational roles. She has a passion for nurturing talent, and her ability to unlock potential and guide her teams to new heights sets her apart in the industry.
Lori maintains an unwavering commitment to her industry. She served 2 years as President of the Tampa Bay Area Apartment Association and continues to contribute as a committee member for the Florida Apartment Association. A graduate of the NAA CAPS, LYCEUM, and NAAEI Instructor programs, she has also served as an FAA and NAA Delegate. Lori’s career trajectory serves as an inspiration in the multifamily housing industry. Her impactful leadership, professional achievements, and commitment to nurturing talent and industry growth truly set her apart as a dynamic powerhouse.
25. Mallory Taylor
EVP of Digital Innovation, Abacode Cybersecurity & Compliance
Mallory Taylor currently oversees the development and ongoing business operations of Abacode’s proprietary digital platform, SCOUT. In addition, she ensures the digitization of application solutions that support the needs of the Abacode team.
Previously, she held the position of president and CEO at Bravado Health, where she provided oversight for both Ayva, a patient engagement software platform, and Treat, an e-prescribing platform. During her tenure, she successfully restructured the business's legal and financial frameworks, strategically positioning both products for acquisition within a remarkable 15 months. As the founder and CEO of MTT Innovations, she offered consulting services to government entities, non-profits, healthcare, and technology companies. Her focus was on assisting clients in creating and capitalizing on strategic initiatives to facilitate growth. Additionally, she served as the co-founder and CEO of assessURhealth, a mental and behavioral health software that delivered instant, mission-critical data reporting on numerous assessments and languages, ultimately enabling the screening and saving of millions of lives daily.
Previously, Taylor demonstrated her multifaceted skills by developing and managing various departments and divisions, including Revenue Cycle Management, Client Success, Product Management, Marketing, Sales, VAR Channel, Support, Implementation, Finance, and M&A. Her strategic direction led to the oversight and successful execution of five acquisitions within an impressive 8-month period, all funded internally and paid off within 6 months. Furthermore, she contributed her expertise to a multi-billion-dollar global conglomerate, where she spearheaded the company's most profitable M&A strike team, resulting in the generation of over $1.5B in new revenue.
Taylor's extensive knowledge in business and health IT, coupled with her valuable industry relationships, enables her to engage effectively with political and industry experts, including the Department of Health and Human Services, and she was formerly a member of the White House Business Council. She graduated summa cum laude from Louisiana State University with an undergraduate degree in political science and is currently pursuing her master's in international business and policy at Georgetown University.
26. Kelly Ground
Chief Growth Officer, Gray Harbor Digital
Kelly Ground is a highly accomplished professional with over 18 years of expertise in the dynamic realm of affiliate marketing. Currently serving as the Chief Growth Officer at Gray Harbor Digital, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to drive strategic and innovative growth for affiliate and partnership marketing programs. Kelly is a recognized industry leader, contributing significantly to the field. She is an active member of the Performance Marketing Association Board of Directors, where she leverages her extensive industry experience to shape and guide the direction of performance marketing initiatives.
Prior to her current role, Kelly served as the Senior Director of Strategy and Insights at Acceleration Partners. During her tenure, she provided strategic guidance to AP's global affiliate program management teams. Her deep understanding of the affiliate landscape led to her recognition as a Top 30 Partnership Marketing Changemaker in the US by Hello Partner. Kelly played a pivotal role in the success of numerous campaigns and initiatives, establishing herself as a thought leader in the affiliate marketing space.
Before joining Acceleration Partners, Kelly made significant contributions as a Senior Digital Marketing Manager at HSN (Home Shopping Network). Over 7 years, she implemented highly effective affiliate and display programs, driving incremental revenue and overall growth for the company. Her consistent delivery of results and profitability showcased her as a key player in the success of HSN's digital marketing efforts. Kelly's professional journey also includes a role as a Marketing Manager for an employee benefits publisher, where she gained valuable experience in a niche sector. Additionally, her diverse expertise extends to the manufacturing and telecommunication industries, further highlighting her adaptability and proficiency in various business environments. Kelly earned an undergraduate degree in political science with a minor in journalism from Clemson University, laying the foundation for her analytical and communication skills. With a proven track record of success and a commitment to driving innovation in affiliate marketing, Kelly Ground continues to be a driving force in shaping the industry's landscape.
29. Adrienne Dorison
CEO & Co-Founder, Run Like Clockwork
Adrienne Dorison is the CEO and Co-Founder of Run Like Clockwork. She is an operational efficiency expert who has assisted thousands of businesses in running more efficiently. She crafted the Clockwork™️ program and its proven process through her 15+ years of operational efficiency experience in small, medium, and corporate-sized companies. She holds Lean Six Sigma certification, is a SCRUM expert trainer, and is a certified Smart Growth Advisor™️. Adrienne co-founded Run Like Clockwork alongside the best-selling author of Clockwork, Mike Michalowicz, aiming to assist entrepreneurs in designing a business capable of running itself. Clockwork presents a straightforward system for achieving ultra-efficiency in business. Together, Adriene and Mike challenge all small business owners to undergo their litmus test for a successfully "clockworked" business – the 4-week unplugged vacation.
As the host of two podcasts, the Run Like Clockwork podcast and Dear Work Wives, Adrienne provides practical advice for leaders, teams, and individuals to enhance their work processes. Personally passionate about community service, she serves as a board member for The Adventure Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to ending extreme poverty through entrepreneurial solutions.
Adrienne earned her undergraduate degree in wildlife ecology and conservation from the University of Florida and holds a master's degree in forestry and natural resource economics from the University of Georgia. Following her undergraduate studies, she lived in South Africa, where she became a certified safari guide. Upon returning to the US, she pursued graduate school. In her free time, Adrienne prioritizes spending moments with her family, including her husband and two young daughters. She has successfully taken two completely unplugged maternity leaves, a testament to the effectiveness of her Clockwork process, supported by the systems and team she has built.
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30. Talyn Guercio
Chief Operating Officer & Partner, SGP Advisors
Talyn Guercio is the Chief Operating Officer and a Partner of SGP Advisors. Shea Guercio Partners (SGP Advisors), formerly Shea Barclay Group, is a privately owned and operated insurance brokerage headquartered in Tampa, Florida. The firm’s roots can be traced back to the late 1990s, when co-founder, Vern Barclay, left a successful law firm career to establish the agency. In the early years, their focus was solely on placing Lawyers’ Professional Liability Insurance, predominantly in the Tampa Bay area. Over the years, SGP Advisors has evolved to become one of the preeminent specialty insurance brokerages in the United States. Today, their client experience includes all 50 states, and the firm maintains offices throughout Florida and Texas.
Right out of college, Guercio secured a position with one of the nation’s top 10 publicly traded brokers. It was during this time that Guercio assisted with the integration of three successful acquisitions. Upon moving to Tampa in 2008, she soon joined Shea Barclay Group. Under a management buy-out in 2012, Guercio is one of four owners of the firm. Guercio had the honor of winning the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s CFO of the Year Award in 2013 and has also served on the Applied ASCNet Board of Directors. She currently holds a position on the Special Olympics of Florida Executive Committee. Guercio graduated from the University of Arkansas with an undergraduate degree in finance, insurance, and risk management.
31. Starr Sackstein
Chief Operating Officer, Mastery Portfolio
Starr Sackstein embarked on her teaching journey at Far Rockaway High School in the early 2000s, driven by a passion for making a difference. Recognizing the pivotal role of building relationships in education, she quickly became adept at connecting with students and fostering a sense of community and personal growth through reflection. Her commitment to placing students at the heart of the learning process has remained unwavering.
Transitioning into leadership, Sackstein served as the Director of Humanities in West Hempstead, New York, where she completed advanced leadership certification at SUNY New Paltz. Her transformative leadership style, influenced by her experience in the classroom, led her to pen From Teacher to Leader: Finding Your Way as a First-Time Leader Without Losing Your Mind. Prior to this role, she contributed significantly to education at Long Island City High School and World Journalism Preparatory School in New York, garnering accolades for her outstanding contributions, including a Special Recognition Adviser honor from the Dow Jones News Fund.
Sackstein's impact extends beyond the classroom through her extensive publications, covering diverse educational topics. Notably, she transitioned to full-time consulting with the Core Collaborative in 2019, focusing on assessment reform and amplifying student voice. As the COO of Mastery Portfolio since August 2021, she has brought her beliefs about grades and standards-based assessment to the forefront, aiming to reshape the learning experiences of students globally.
In her multifaceted career, balancing roles as an educator, writer, and mother, Sackstein remains dedicated to the cause of educational reform. With her husband Charlie by her side, they explore the world and bring harmony to each other’s lives.
33. Maria Jameson
Chief Development Officer, Federal Retirement Experts
Maria Jameson’s “servant’s heart” shows in how focused she is on helping federal employees work toward their retirement dreams with a customized strategy for retirement income while protecting their nest eggs. She currently serves as the Chief Development Officer of Federal Retirement Experts. Federal Retirement Experts are nationwide specialists in how federal employee benefits work. Their mission is to make sure federal employees understand their benefits in order to make educated decisions about their financial future and plan for their retirement accordingly while maximizing retirement dollars.
Maria got her start in the industry in 1995 and has also worked in the healthcare and technology fields. She holds life and health licenses in all 50 states and has an undergraduate degree in business administration from Saint Leo University. For over 15 years, Maria has enjoyed volunteering for organizations like Make-A-Wish Foundation and GiGi’s Playhouse in her free time. She loves spending time on the water boating, traveling the globe, Argentine tango/salsa dancing, attending concerts, and cheering on the Tampa Bay Lightning, Rays, and Buccaneers. Maria lives in Tampa Bay with her husband and endlessly dotes on her four rescue dogs, Koby, Mykonos, Mimi, and Magic.
34. Christina Wojcik
Managing Director of Corporate & Legal Operations, LexFusion
Christina Wojcik, Esq.'s, career is focused on building solutions to solve critical legal and business challenges. By consulting on and implementing best practices, leveraging technology, outsourcing, and creating innovative solutions to complex problems, she assists organizations in simplifying and standardizing processes, driving revenue, achieving cost savings, and reducing risk across the enterprise. She currently serves as the Managing Director of Corporate and Legal Operations for LexFusion.
Previously, Christina served as a director of legal innovation, technology, and improvement with Citi. Prior to joining Citi, she led the solutions and enablement teams, globally, at Seal Software. She managed a team of technical pre-sales solution consultants to demonstrate best-in-class solutions to meet the complex contractual needs of Fortune 1000 organizations. She also ensured that the field team had the training, tools, and resources necessary to achieve the greatest success.
As a practice executive of contract management at IBM, Christina was responsible for contract management strategy and best practices. She worked closely with Fortune 500 companies to replace high-risk, manually-intensive contract management processes with proven, scalable technology that delivers complete risk oversight and obligation management to legal organizations, while streamlining the end-to-end process, thereby increasing revenue and reducing costs. Christina has also worked in the legal process outsourcing industry where she consulted in-house legal counsel on the benefits of offshoring contracting, corporate governance, and litigation.
36. Phara McLachlan
Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Nahteava
Phara McLachlan is an accomplished executive, entrepreneur, speaker, author, and consultant. She is the CEO and Founder of Nahteava, a consulting and advisory firm specializing in IT asset management, software asset management, strategy, and technology. Nahteava helps clients overcome challenges, uncover hidden opportunities, drive cost optimization, & transform operational excellence. Phara has 25 years of expertise and success in business transformation, technology transformation, strategy, and IT asset management across technology, startups, financial services/banking, healthcare, media & entertainment, retail, private and public sectors, and international markets industries.
Prior to launching Nahteava, Phara spent 10 years serving as the CEO of Animus Solutions, an IT asset management and technology consulting firm, and was responsible for managing the company, formulating, and executing long-term strategies, interacting with clients, employees, and other stakeholders, and led the ITAM practice. Before Animus, she consulted independently and for some of the Big 4 consulting firms, assuming various consulting positions with a focus on IT asset management, strategy, and technology.
Phara is a frequent speaker and well-reputed contributor to leading management, technology, and news publications including Wall Street Journal and Technology, Black Enterprise Magazine, Architecture & Governance, BaseLine, ITAM Review, and InfoWorld to name a few. She is also the published author of Pocket CIO: The Guide to Successful IT Asset Management. Phara holds an undergraduate degree in management information systems from the University of South Florida, as well as various industry certifications.
38. Julie Rupenski
Founder & CEO, MedBest Recruiting
Julie Rupenski is the Founder and CEO of MedBest Recruiting, a senior living executive search firm. Since opening its doors in 2001, Rupenski has grown MedBest into an award-winning, multimillion-dollar national firm, garnering impressive awards including INC 5000 2021 and Tampa Bay Fast 50 2021. Rupenski’s company has gained national recognition due to her industry expertise and high level of success. Her in-depth knowledge of the senior living industry can be credited to the years she worked in operations in the industry. Today, she still makes it her personal and professional mission to place qualified executives in positions where they have the greatest impact.
Rupenski continues her industry education through various conferences, forums, and expos. She has been interviewed and served as a guest columnist for many major industry publications including Argentum Magazine, Provider Magazine, LeadingAge, McKnight’s Senior Living, and Senior Housing News. She was asked to lead a roundtable discussion at InterFace Housing Southeast for talent recruitment and retention. Among her long-standing professional recruitment affiliations are the National Association of Personnel Services, the National Investment Center for Senior Housing & Care, and Next Level Exchange. Rupenski earned an undergraduate degree in gerontology from the University of South Florida.
39. Tricia Manning
Owner & Executive Coach, White Cap Coaching
Tricia Manning is the Owner of White Cap Coaching. She works with business professionals and leaders to elevate their leadership capabilities and accelerate their overall development. Tricia brings real-life experience and understanding to the problem of corporate advancement and leadership through various development programs.
Additionally, Tricia serves as a professional speaker. She educates, motivates, and inspires people to elevate their leadership. She has real-life experience with leadership and culture and speaks on topics including intentional leadership, being a continuous learner, redefining success, and taking the first steps toward change. Her mission is to share compelling messages and generate learning outcomes that allow leaders to apply new perspectives to how they lead.
Tricia has been featured as the executive leadership coach on ABC Action News & Fox13, has been a contributing writer for BOLD Business and BOLD Life, and was a 2018 TBBJ Woman of the Year nominee. She is a frequent podcast guest on Trailblazers with Sarina Fazan, Swagg University with Dr. Phildra Swagger, Breakfast Leadership with Michael Levitt, and SYKES production Career Talks with Orlando Haynes. Tracia graduated from Florida State University with an undergraduate degree in finance and economics.
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40. Tammy L. Davis
Managing Director, Interim Resources, StevenDouglas
Tammy Davis has been a driving force behind the success of StevenDouglas' Central Florida Project practice since 2009. In 2020, she extended her leadership to North Florida. With a specialized focus in accounting & finance, internal audit, and human resources, Tammy is widely recognized for her commitment to building strong client relationships and maintaining credibility through exceptional performance.
Before joining StevenDouglas, Tammy made her mark by establishing and leading the Florida practice of a publicly held global professional services firm. Her consistently outstanding performance placed her among the firm's top national producers. Tammy's dedication to client service earned her the status of a trusted advisor to a Fortune 50 client, where she spearheaded an internal global team, collaborating with three sister organizations to deliver consulting, project, and staffing services.
Tammy's exceptional contributions have not gone unnoticed by both professional and civic organizations. She has received several prestigious honors, including the Business Woman of the Year award from the Tampa Bay Business Journal. Her commitment to community engagement is evident through her recognition as Board Member of the Year by the Florida Coalition for Children and Big Sister of the Year by Big Brothers Big Sisters Tampa Bay.
41. Karen Mertes
Founder & President, Fulfill Your Destiny
Karen Mertes is a distinguished Lieutenant Colonel (retired) from our United States Air Force, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivor, and CEO of Fulfill Your Destiny, Inc. The organization’s vision centers on the H.E.R.O. movement – Hands Eagerly Reach Out. Karen founded Fulfill Your Destiny, a 501c3 non-profit corporation assisting people in the greater Tampa Bay community through her signature ‘Business Builder Grants’ program awarding $1,000 to entrepreneurs to take their businesses to their next level. Special consideration is given to those who have survived something tragic yet remain determined to succeed. Karen’s passion is evident as she donates all her energies full-time to Fulfill Your Destiny and doesn’t take a salary. She pays 100% of the administrative costs out of her personal funds. Karen also donates an additional 10% in honor of each donor making the donor’s effective contribution 110%.
Karen is a professional motivational speaker who donates her tax-deductible speaking honorariums directly to Fulfill Your Destiny. She educates others about traumatic brain injuries and she’s inspired thousands with her remarkable story of survival with a TBI following a collision in 2007 with a drunk driver on I-75 traveling over 100 mph. Karen co-authored the award-winning, #1 Amazon Best Seller in its category, Plaintiff 101 The Black Book of Inside Information Your Lawyer Will Want You to Know. All proceeds are donated directly to Fulfill Your Destiny. Many inspiring stories of people Fulfill Your Destiny has helped can be found at www.fulfillyourdestiny.org.
Recognized by numerous awards, including Tampa Bay Business Journal’s Heroes at Work, the Association of Fundraising Professionals Spirit of Philanthropy, and WFLA’s 2023 Remarkable Woman, Karen’s contributions go beyond the tangible. Through her motivational speaking and Plaintiff 101, Karen has turned her life promise into a lifelong mission. To encounter Karen is to be inspired to fulfill your destiny.
45. Rachel Slowey
Global Director - Strategic Partnerships, eTeam
As the Global Director of Strategic Partnerships at eTeam, Rachel Slowey leads collaborative efforts with their partners and clients, ensuring the optimal delivery of services and fostering innovation. In this role, she works closely with clients to shape industry standards and make a meaningful impact in communities worldwide. Boasting over two decades of experience in business development and staffing, Rachel has consistently demonstrated a proven track record of prioritizing client needs and delivering unique, niche talent to Fortune 100-500 companies.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Rachel is deeply passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion. She proudly is the co-founder and president of The Giving Girls, a voluntary non-profit organization focused on providing support to those affected by breast cancer in the Tampa Bay area.
Honored to be recognized as one of the World Staffing Award Top 100 Leaders in 2023 and acknowledged in the Tampa Bay Business Journal's 40 Under 40 in 2019, her mission is clear. Rachel leverages her expertise in sales, networking, growth, and expansion to create significant value and impact for her clients, partners, and the community at large.
46. Peggy Vo
Director of Global Marketing - Commercial, iFIT
Peggy Vo is a dynamic force in the global marketing arena whose unwavering energy, tenacity, and commitment to innovation have not only catapulted her to the zenith of success but have also reshaped the landscape of major global fitness organizations. With a stellar career spanning over two decades, Peggy has been the driving force behind groundbreaking initiatives, from spearheading territory launches and scale-ups to pioneering first-to-market strategies, integrated marketing campaigns, and elevating customer experiences. She currently serves as the Director of Global Marketing for iFit.
Beyond the boardroom, Peggy's passion extends far into the realm of philanthropy and community service. Recognizing the importance of giving back, she dedicates a substantial amount of her free time to support charities and not-for-profit organizations. Two causes that lie particularly close to Peggy's heart are Building Beds and Sleep in Heavenly Peace. In her Florida community, Peggy has played a pivotal role in ensuring that every child has a bed to call their own at night. Over the past six years, her efforts have resulted in the delivery of nearly 4,000 beds to families and children in need.
Peggy's remarkable achievements have not gone unnoticed. She has been honored with prestigious awards, including the 2020 Women Who Inspire by IHRSA and recognition among the Good Soul's Top 50 Souls. Her accolades are a testament to her exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to making a positive impact both in the business world and the communities she serves. Peggy is not just a global marketing leader; she is a visionary whose influence transcends industries, leaving an indelible mark on the world of health, fitness, and philanthropy.
47. Neidy Blanton
Director of Research and Human Resources, MedBest Senior Care Recruiting
Neidy Blanton is the Director of Research and Human Resources at MedBest Senior Care Recruiting, an award-winning national executive search firm exclusive to the Senior Living industry. Blanton has been instrumental in developing and fortifying the company’s research department. She continues to train the research team and is currently spearheading the department’s expansion, underscoring her forward-thinking approach to strategic development and ensuring MedBest's continued success.
Additionally, she is responsible for vetting and implementing innovative IT solutions to strategically place MedBest ahead of its competition. Her specialty areas of research and sourcing are Senior Living Regional, C-Suite, and Senior Care IT positions. Blanton works hard to ensure that best practices and approaches are taken to propel MedBest forward. As the HR Manager, she consistently prioritizes the well-being of employees, considering them MedBest's most valuable asset. Blanton firmly believes that every individual at MedBest merits her attention and prioritization. Collaborating closely with MedBest President, Julie Rupenski, she actively engages in onboarding new employees and ensures the seamless facilitation of company policies and procedures.
Blanton believes in giving back to the community and has volunteered with the Child Life Department of St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital and Feeding America Tampa Bay. Additionally, she volunteers through her church, participating in activities such as feeding the homeless and fundraising for charitable causes. Blanton earned an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida. Beyond her professional achievements, she enjoys party planning, arts and crafts, reading, technology, and learning new things. She cherishes time with her family and engages in unique hobbies, such as indulging in old-school video games and exploring the art of film editing.
49. Bonnie Taylor
Regional Director of Sales & Marketing, Remington Hospitality
Bonnie Taylor is the Regional Director of Sales and Marketing for Remington Hospitality, based at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore. She is also responsible for driving top-line revenue through sales and marketing for Croc’s Resort & Casino in Jaco Beach, Costa Rica. Her recent promotion is a result of leadership and tenacity, establishing an excellent sales foundation for Croc’s Resort & Casino, which is set for a successful 2024. Taylor’s perseverance and mentorship have driven positive results at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore year after year. Under Taylor’s leadership, the Commercial Strategy team at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore continues to stand out as a top performer in the market. Bonnie has played a pivotal role in achieving positive market share through critical thinking and the effective use of business intelligence tools. Her commitment to exceeding goals is evident through interoffice empowerment, the creation of a healthy work culture, and the ongoing development of her team.
Taylor joined Remington Hospitality in 2010 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Dulles Airport as the Sales Manager. She later transferred to Melrose Georgetown Hotel and Churchill Hotel in Washington D.C. before returning to the Embassy Suites by Hilton Dulles Airport as Director of Sales and Marketing in 2013. During her tenure at the Embassy Suites, she was named an Elite Director of Sales by the brand in 2017. Taylor was promoted to the Director of Sales role at the Hilton Tampa Westshore, where she has continued to excel, being a 4x Pinnacle Winner, Smart Meetings-2021 Smart Women of the Year, and Remington’s Director of Sales of the Year in 2019. She has been a leader within the Commercial Strategy team, participating in the Sales Council, Community Council, and most recently, REMthrive. Throughout her time with Remington, Taylor has personified the Remington Hospitality motto – Hospitality is Where Passionate People Thrive.
Taylor began her career at the Embassy Suites by Hilton San Juan Hotel & Casino in Puerto Rico 27 years ago in the housekeeping department, working in Guest Services and Reservations. In 2002, she joined the Sales team at the Embassy Suites Dorado del Mar Beach & Golf Resort in Dorado, Puerto Rico. Her roots and experience in the CALA market made her a natural fit to support Remington’s first international hotel, Croc’s Resort & Casino in Jaco Beach, Costa Rica.
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