AVENU INSIGHTS & ANALYTICS - Key Persons
April develops, implements, and executes all of Avenu's human resources strategies in support of the company's annual business objectives and strategic long-range plan.
She brings more than 10 years of human resources experience to this position, with previous work in the software, communications, and federal contracting industries. In particular, April has developed expertise in orientation and on-boarding, regulatory compliance, risk management, staff coaching, employee relations, and facilitating training initiatives.
With a team-oriented approach and an open-door policy, April has successfully fostered an engaged and educated team that is primed for driving results for our clients.
James Barkman is a seasoned finance professional with a rich career spanning across a diverse set of various finance-related roles. Currently serving as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Avenu, he is responsible for overseeing all areas of accounting, budgeting, contracts, procurement, and financial analysis.
Prior to joining Avenu, James spent 14 successful years at Conduent, where he held several leadership positions. He served as Transportation General Manager, Public Sector CFO, Senior Vice President of FP&A, and Chief Operating Officer. Throughout his tenure, James led global teams and gained extensive expertise in finance, strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions, private and public financing, and business development. He has also worked in similar capacities within the Student Loan, Media, Telecommunications, and Aviation industries.
James holds an MBA from the University of Maryland and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science from Wake Forest University. His educational background, combined with his extensive experience in finance and business, positions him as an ideal fit for his current role at Avenu.
Job Titles:
- VP, Legal & Contracts Administration
Karen Miller-Kuwana brings a wealth of legal and contracts expertise to Avenu as the Vice President of Contracts and Administration. She is responsible for driving the company's strategic contract initiatives and ensuring alignment with Avenu's critical business objectives. Karen's extensive legal background allows her to navigate complex negotiations and develop innovative solutions to complicated contract challenges. Her ability to lead contract initiatives and drive results, combined with her analytical and leadership skills, are a major factor in ensuring the successful execution of Avenu's contract operations.
A seasoned executive with expertise in sales, business development, and partner management, Michael brings over 20 years of leadership experience in growing technology and SaaS organizations with a track record that speaks to his commitment to people and adoption of disruptive technology in both turn-around and high-growth situations.
Previously, Michael was the Head of Sales and Business Development for SAP, a market leader in enterprise application software, where he was responsible for driving the training and adoption strategy, line of business profitability and customers success in the US, Canada and Latin America. Prior to that he served as the Senior Vice President of Sales and Market Development at eLynx. In this role, he successfully developed growth strategies for the business through applying customer-driven innovation for both existing and new market opportunities.
Throughout his career, Michael has been known to build teams that are recognized in the industry for being trusted advisors who place a high priority on helping customers become well-run organizations. Michael lives in Reno, Nevada with his wife Tracey, 16-year-old son Aiden and 14-year-old daughter Kate.
Mike is an award-winning leader known for his strategic and operational excellence, improving morale, streamlining operational processes, and increasing customer satisfaction. He has extensive experience transforming and optimizing services and solutions designed for international, federal, state and local governments.
Job Titles:
- Chief Executive Officer
- Member of the Leadership Team
With a track record as a trusted advisor at the state and local levels, Paul leads the operations, strategy and growth of Avenu.
Paul previously served as President and COO at Library Systems & Services, as well as President of Appriss - where his strategic vision led to the portfolio revenue growth and diversification. Before Appriss, Paul was Vice President of Convergys Global Business Unit, managing client services programs in government, automotive, and transportation markets.
Paul earned his bachelor's degree from Seton Hall University and his MBA from Strayer University. And as part of his ongoing commitment to serving state and local communities nationwide, he serves on the Blessings in a Backpack National Board, Vehicle Management Solutions & Prince William County Service Authority.
Job Titles:
- Chief Product Officer
- Leader
Sarah R. Ratcliffe, an accomplished leader in product management, brings over a decade of expertise in the FinTech and GovTech sectors to her role as Chief Product Officer. Sarah's extensive experience in enterprise sales, product marketing, and consulting has honed her skills in adopting a customer-centric approach to product development. Sarah is responsible for steering the engineering and product development teams. They will lead our product strategy and vision, guiding the migration of customers to new platforms and collaborating with sales, operations, and marketing teams to enhance the overall customer experience.
Prior to Avenu, Sarah played a pivotal role in transforming Passport into an integration-rich platform as the Senior Vice President of Product & Strategy. And with Applied Systems, Sarah led product management for the company's largest management systems and initiated the launch of innovative analytics and marketing products.
Sarah holds a Master's degree in Organizational Psychology from The Chicago School, complemented by certifications in product management, product marketing, human resources, and diversity & inclusive practices. Outside of her professional commitments, Sarah is a public speaker, an advisor, and serves as a board member for various small businesses and foundations. Sarah also runs a social enterprise that supports mental health through creative experiences, demonstrating her dedication to community well-being and social responsibility.