Alright, let’s start with this - I don’t love writing about myself, and I’ve never been great at the “30-second elevator pitch.” But if you’re here, you’re probably wondering who I am and what makes me tick. So, let’s dive in.

The Plan That Wasn’t

If life had followed my original plan, I’d be a retired U.S. Navy officer, JAG Corps, now an attorney in private practice, and maybe even a senator by now (or so my ambitious younger self imagined). That dream came to a screeching halt when a medical disqualification shut the door before I even stepped through it. I had no Plan B.

So, I did what many do - I worked, I studied, and I worked some more. Eventually, I stumbled into retail. It wasn’t love at first sight, but it was curiosity at first step. Over time, I realized that what really intrigued me wasn’t just selling things - it was understanding people. What they buy, why they buy it, how brands connect with them, and how experiences shape their decisions. I leaned into that curiosity, took risks, and sought out opportunities that weren’t always obvious. That mindset shaped my career in ways I could never have predicted.

The Career That Found Me

Funny how life works—I finally made it to the Navy, albeit as a civilian, but with the civilian rank of a flag officer and, more importantly, the opportunity to do what I love for those who deserve it most. Never give up on your goals!

Today, I serve as EVP, Global Chief Merchandising & Marketing Officer for the Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM), a global enterprise serving military families. I lead merchandising and marketing for a business that spans retail, hospitality, food, services, and more. But here’s the thing - I don’t just see it as a job, I see it as a mission. We serve those who serve. That matters.

Before this, I spent years working with iconic brands - JCPenney, Haggar, and Brooks Brothers - leading brand transformation, marketing, and strategic growth. I even founded my own consulting firm, helping start-ups and established companies rethink their purpose-driven strategic approach to their businesses and brands. With executive experience spanning increasing responsibilities,

I’ve had the privilege of being involved in every aspect of the customer journey - what they buy, what they eat, where they stay, how we communicate, connect, and engage, and ultimately, how they value the experience. Whether in moderate or luxury, goods or services, retail or hospitality, my focus has always been on one thing: people. The customer. The teams I’ve worked with. And creating value in every journey.

Along the way, I’ve been recognized as a “Top Retail Expert” and a “Top 100 CMO,” - definitely a honor, though I’d argue my biggest professional wins have been the moments when I helped teams achieve something they never thought possible. 

But Here’s What Really Matters

At my core, I’m a student of the world. I’ve lived in Central America, traveled to all 50 states, and explored over 70 countries - not as a tourist but as someone fascinated by culture, commerce, and human connection. Some of my favorite moments have been sipping tea in a market in Istanbul, watching the sun rise in the Sahara, or getting lost in the rhythm of a city I’ve never been to before. My favorite destination? The one I haven’t visited yet.

I believe in lifelong learning—not just from books, but from people, experiences, and sometimes, mistakes. That passion for learning and developing talent has led me to serve as an adjunct instructor at George Mason University, where I teach courses in global commerce, helping students connect the dots between academic theory and real-world application. I also co-host and co-create Retail Relates, a podcast that bridges the gap between industry leaders and emerging talent in a relatable and engaging way. Whether in the classroom, on a podcast, or in a boardroom, my goal is the same, sharing insights, sparking curiosity, and helping the next generation see the possibilities ahead of them.

The Titles That Matter Most

Despite the career, the travels, and the professional milestones, the titles I cherish most are Husband and Dad. I married my high school sweetheart, and we’ve renewed our vows in Las Vegas, at sea, and more recently, in Negril. We have an incredible daughter who is carving her own path in Global Studies, Psychology, and (with a proud tear in my eye) Marketing. I have encouraged her to measure success not simply by a title she may hold - but more importantly, through the empathy to others, the sense of reward and happiness she feels, and the impact she creates. 

These days, I’m adjusting to life as an empty nester with my wife, traveling as much as possible, trying to simplify, reading more, and maybe—just maybe—working on a book. You never know.

So, how did I do? Still here? If so, stay tuned—because I’m still a work in progress.