Brian Klas
Brian holds both undergraduate (BS in Accounting) and masters (MBA in MIS) degrees from Montclair State University and is a licensed CPA in the state of NJ. Brian has spent his career in various finance and operational roles and prides himself on taking a people first, process focused approach to improving organizational decision making that sets companies up for fiscal strength and sustainable growth. Brian currently serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Management department at Ramapo College of NJ in addition to being a senior finance leader at a global consumer goods company.
John Kowal
John Kowal currently serves as SVP, Managing Principal, and Chief Technology Officer at
Peapack Private Bank and Trust. He leads the Bank’s technology operations and innovation
efforts focused on Artificial Intelligence, data, and process modernization.
Mahesh Yadav
Mahesh Yadav is a seasoned technology entrepreneur with over 30 years of
experience driving growth and innovation across the IT industry. He is the Founder and
CEO of Optima Global Solutions, a leading software and services firm delivering
intelligent automation and consulting solutions to enterprise customers across North
America. Optima specializes in end-to-end business process automation, helping
organizations improve operational efficiency and advance their digital transformation
initiatives.
Mahesh is also the Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of TranscendAP, an accounts-
payable automation platform that leverages AI and machine learning to streamline the
invoice-to-pay process for mid-market and enterprise organizations.
In addition to his operating roles, Mahesh is an active investor in early-stage and
growth-oriented technology companies in the U.S. and Asia. A passionate golfer, he is
the Founder of the South Asian Golf Association and serves on the Board of The First
Tee Greater Trenton, supporting youth development through the game of golf.
Melanie Ronches
Melanie Ronches is the Senior Vice President of Innovation and Development at Moore,
where she leads the organization’s product management, software development, and
data engineering teams. In this role, she is responsible for shaping the strategy and
execution of data-driven platforms and technology solutions that power marketing and
fundraising initiatives for nonprofit organizations. Her work focuses on leveraging
advanced analytics, artificial intelligence, and scalable data infrastructure to help
organizations better understand and engage their supporters.
With extensive experience in data, analytics, product strategy, data platforms, and
technology leadership, Melanie is known for building high-performing cross-functional
teams and driving innovation at the intersection of business and technology.
Melanie is a proud alumna of Montclair State University and serves on
the IMBA Advisory Board, where she supports initiatives that strengthen the connection
between academic programs and the evolving needs of industry.