NOVO CONNECTION - Key Persons


Dave Crawford

Job Titles:
  • VP of Finance

Jan Mock

Job Titles:
  • Director of Ancillary Lines

Joe Saturnino - CMO

Job Titles:
  • Director of Marketing

Matthew Kessel

Job Titles:
  • Director of Underwriting

Melissa Saturnino - COO

Job Titles:
  • Chief Operating Officer
Melissa Saturnino is responsible for the global operations of the organization. She brings more than 25 years of experience in sales, marketing, and business administration to Novo Connection. Since Novo's foundation, Melissa has focused on delivering inspirational leadership, developing culture, and building people systems to produce cohesive business structures, process improvements, and profitable revenue growth. Under her leadership, the organization has consistently achieved year-over-year revenue increases, improved client retention, and expanded brand recognition.

Michael E. Poelman - Founder, President

Job Titles:
  • Founder
  • President
Michael E. Poelman is the founder and president of Novo Connection. With over 24 years' experience, Poelman has a comprehensive understanding of health insurance benefits. Serving as the President, Michael is responsible for the strategic direction and overall growth, as well as the development and operational execution of business strategy. He continues to be a market leader helping brokers and employers of all sizes custom design, build, implement, and manage employee health benefits and wellness solutions.

Michelle Conrad

Job Titles:
  • VP of Client Services

Paul Stone

Job Titles:
  • Regional VP of Sales

Rob Henderson

Job Titles:
  • Partner

Ryan Thiess

Job Titles:
  • Partner

Spencer Brydon

Job Titles:
  • Product Director

Spencer Thomas

Job Titles:
  • Regional VP of Sales

Stephen Simmons - CFO

Job Titles:
  • Chief Financial Officer
Stephen Simmons joined Apta Health in 2018. He has more than 35 years of broad-based financial management experience. He has served as CFO of two software development and data science companies. He was previously a vice president of finance and division controller for a multi-billion-dollar federal defense contractor. Stephen is responsible for Apta's accounting operations, strategic business and financial planning and analysis, fund raising, tax matters, and risk management. He directs efforts to implement excellent financial and accounting control processes and systems.

Tom Busler

Job Titles:
  • VP of Sales