Speakers
Jason Alexander, Esq., Sussman Shank LLP
Jason has more than 13 years of continual commercial litigation experience and is Chair of the firm's Construction Group. He represents companies and individuals in a wide array of business matters and disputes. Jason counsels clients in risk avoidance matters such as contract review and negotiation, as well as in dispute resolution matters including traditional litigation and the ever-evolving arbitration, mediation, and other alternative dispute resolution options. Jason's primary fields of representation include general business dealings with an emphasis in construction and commercial debtor/creditor relationships.
Join Jason on Construction Day, September 22, from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. as he discusses, "Working with Public Agencies: Contractor Licensing, Bonds, and Collecting Against Them; Small Public Jobs Without a Bond".
Dana Barz, M.A., Founder/President, DanamicsDana Barz, is the principal and founder of danamics, a business and development company that creates custom solutions for business leaders facing changes in organizational structure, technology, and ever-increasing consumer demands.
Dana began her career in organizational development and operations management 20 years ago in the healthcare and customer service industries. Her clients’ results are measured by quantum jumps in productivity, performance, cost reduction and asset utilization. Dana’s approach is tailored to meet organizational and individual needs with proven processes. Her clients include Peacehealth, Jeld-Wen Industries, Cascade Healthcare Community, Goodwill Industries, American Licorice Company, Central Oregon Community College, and Bend Chamber of Commerce.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Curriculum Design and Psychology from the Martin Luther University in Germany and a 5 year Master's degree in Organizational Development from the Martin Luther University in Germany.
On Thursday, September 23, Dana will discuss “The Loyalty Factor: Gain the Competitive Edge” from 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. and “Communication Across the Ages” from 3:30 p.m.– 5:00 p.m.
Paul Beretz, CICE, Managing Director, Pacific Business Solutions
Paul Beretz, CICE (Certified International Credit Executive), is Managing Director of Pacific Business Solutions, a company he created in 1999. In addition, he is a founding partner of Q2C (Quote to Cash) Solutions. He brings over 30 years of global, corporate experience in finance and management with industries such as telecommunications, semi-conductors, forest products, chemicals, plastics and consumer products among others. His expertise includes analyzing opportunities and providing resolutions in the order-through-collect cycle for manufacturers, distributors and service companies located worldwide.
Additionally, Paul is a faculty member at St. Mary’s College (CA) in the BA in Management and MA in Leadership programs. His adjunct faculty postings also include UC Berkeley and Michigan State University. In 2003, under the combined sponsorship of FCIB (Finance Credit & International Business), Michigan State University and the U.S. Department of Commerce, he created a course in international credit and risk management. Paul is the project manager and lead instructor in this online certificate program that was developed for professionals in countries wishing to export their products or services. Topics addressed cover financing and treasury, risk mitigation techniques, cross-cultural influences, ethics, negotiations, country and currency risk assessment, international trade law among others. As of the end of 2008, over 1,200 professionals from 35+ countries have successfully completed the program. Also, at the request of CMA (the California credit association), he created and instructs in two online certificate courses, “Understanding Financial Statement Analysis” and “Business Credit Principles.” Both on-line programs have been approved by NACM (the National Association of Credit Management) as certification course requirement equivalents. Paul is an instructor in international credit for the summer session of the GSCFM (Graduate School of Credit and Financial Management) at Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH.
Join Paul with other panelists as they focus on Asia, Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East as part of their Roundtable Discussion at 2:15 pm during International Business Day on September 22, 2010.
Raeann Binau, CICP, Regional Credit Manager, Airgas-Norpac, Inc.
Raeann has been involved with Credit Management for 25 years, the last 20 years in all forms of International Credit and Collections. She’s a graduate from Oregon State University and has always worked here in the Pacific Northwest.
Raeann has worked in Credit Management for Chemlawn, Inc., Reser’s Fine Foods, Columbia Machine, Inc., North Pacific Group, and now is the Regional Credit Manager for Airgas Nor Pac, and Airgas Canada, Inc.
An NACM Oregon member for 20 years, Raeann is the secretary for NACM Oregon’s Board of Directors. She is also a member of the International Industry Group here in Oregon as well as a member of FCIB.
As a CICP, Raeann teaches and mentors many in the field of International Credit.
Join Raeann along with Alice Knight during International Business Day on September 22 for their presentation, "Doing Business Internationally", from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Scott F. Blakeley, Esq., Blakeley & Blakeley, LLP
Scott E. Blakeley advises companies around the country regarding creditors’ rights, commercial, e-commerce and bankruptcy law. He was selected as one of the 50 most influential people in commercial credit by Credit Today. He is contributing editor of NACM’s Credit Manual of Commercial Law. Scott has published dozens of articles and manuals in the area of creditors’ rights, commercial law and bankruptcy in such publications as Business Credit, Managing Credit, Receivables & Collections, Norton’s Bankruptcy Review and the Practicing Law Institute, and speaks frequently to credit industry groups regarding these topics throughout the country. He is a member on the board of editors for the California Bankruptcy Journal and is an editorial advisor for Credit Today. He is also co-chair of the sub-committee of unsecured creditors’ committee of the American Bankruptcy Institute, and is a Trustee for the JD/MBA Association. Mr. Blakeley holds a B.S. from Pepperdine University, an M.B.A. from Loyola University and a law degree from Southwestern University. He served as law clerk to Bankruptcy Judge John J. Wilson.
On Thursday, September 23, Scott will present “Credit Law Update: Protect Your Rights!” from 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. and will participate in Friday’s “Ask the Attorney” session from 9:45 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
John Brislin joined the Export Finance Assistance Center of Washington as President and CEO in May 2010. John is originally from Syracuse, New York. He has resided in Washington State for the past 15 years. John has a degree in Business Administration from Boston University’s, School of Management.
John has over 24 years of international banking experience. He has worked for Bank of Boston in Boston, MA in Trade Operations for 9 years. After moving to Washington State, John joined Union Bank in Trade Operations ascending to the role of Operations Manager. Most recently, he was a Global Trade Sales Officer covering Trade Finance and Ex-Im Bank Programs for the Pacific Northwest Region at Union Bank.
John sits on the Board of the World Trade Center Tacoma and the World Trade Club of Seattle. He has also participated in the NACM Vancouver/Portland International Trade Group. John brings his significant experience to EFACW and looks forward to assisting Washington State’s businesses with trade counseling including classic and structured trade assistance.
Scott Cargill, Esq., Lowenstein Sandler, Attorneys at Law
Scott Cargill has extensive experience in bankruptcy courts throughout the country in matters concerning debtor and creditor rights. Mr. Cargill has represented debtors as well as individual creditors and creditors' committees in complex restructuring and insolvency proceedings. He recently concluded the representation of the official committee of unsecured creditors in the Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceeding of Interstate Bakeries Corporation, one of the largest producers of fresh baked goods in the United States. This multi-year engagement involved complex issues which include: the intersection of bankruptcy and labor law, preference and fraudulent transfer liability issues, the substantive consolidation of debtor estates, and employee retention programs.
Scott will field questions in both “Ask the Attorney” sessions.
Susan Delloiacono, CCE, Director of Credit Services, Saint-Gobain - CertainTeed Division
Susan began her career in the Credit Profession over 30 years ago. She has had the pleasure of working and growing at such companies as, American Home Products, Unisys Corporation, Dialogic Corporation, Intel Corporation, Brother International and Saint Gobain's CertainTeed division. While at Dialogic, Susan managed both the worldwide operations of Customer Service and Credit Management. The management of the order to cash process has enabled her to develop a unique management perspective. Currently, Susan is the Director of Credit Services for Saint Gobain's CertainTeed division in Valley Forge, PA. She also serves as Vice Chairperson of the Federation of Credit and Financial Professionals of New York, an NACM affiliate as well as serving as Vice Chairperson Eastern Region on NACM’s National Board of Directors.
Susan completed her undergraduate and graduate work at University of Phoenix where she earned a Business Management Degree and an MBA in Marketing. Susan was in the GSCFM Dartmouth class of 2000 where she earned her CCE with Highest Distinction.
Susan was chosen to speak at the Canton Fair in Guangzhou, China where she shared her credit philosophy with leading business professionals who attended the Chinese Export Commodities Fair in April 2005. Susan is also a frequent speaker at NACM’s National conferences as well as NACM’s tele-conferences.
David Erickson, CCE, Director of Credit & Admin, Allports Forwarding, Inc.
Dave Erickson, CCE, is Director of Credit & Administration and International Trade Consultant with Allports Forwarding and Allports Inc. in Portland, Oregon. Dave has expanded risk management issues to include Insurance Risk Management for the companies and Allports’ primary contact with U.S. Customs for Customs-Trade Partnership against Terrorism [C-TPAT]. Previously he was vice president and senior international trade services officer with U.S. Bank.
Dave received the Certified Credit Executive designation in June 1997. He served as Chairman of the NACM Oregon Board from 2005 to 2006. Dave presently serves as Chairman of the NACM Oregon Foundation.
Mr. Erickson has served on the Western and U.S. Councils on International Banking, Letter of Credit Committee, and has served on the National Commercial Documentary Credit Committee from 1994 through 1997. He has been an international trade consultant presenter for the World Trade Center, Portland State University, and Columbia River Customs House Brokers and Forwarders.
Glen Fahs, Ph.D., Training & Organization Development Consultant, Cascade Employers Association
Glen is the primary Training and Organization Development Consultant for Cascade Employers Association and the Lead Facilitator for the international Resiliency Center. He has worked both internally and as a consultant to corporations, colleges, governments, and nonprofits in the areas of leadership, team building, and change management. Glen has been a member of four local boards, serving as Vice President for Habitat for Humanity, President for the American Society for Training and Development, and President of the Oregon Ethics Commons. He has taught communication, education, and management classes for ten colleges and universities. Certified in Achieve Global (aka Zenger Miller) systems, Glen serves Members by facilitating meetings, conducting employee opinion surveys, and providing customized training.
Glen will present “Resiliency: Turn the Worst Experiences into the Best”, from 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. on Friday, September 24, 2010.
Steve Faulstick, general manager of the Doubletree Hotel Portland, is also a former Board President for Travel Portland, the City of Portland’s official destination marketing organization.
Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and more than 20 years of diverse hospitality experience, ranging from resort food-and-beverage management to convention hotel operations. For the past 10 years, Faulstick has played a key role in driving the success of the Doubletree Hotel Portland – especially as it relates to sustainability and green meetings. In 2006, the hotel became Oregon’s first Green Seal-certified property. Under Faulstick, the Doubletree Hotel Portland has become an industry leader in sustainability, receiving local, state and national recognition for its efforts.
During his tenure in the Portland area, Faulstick has been actively involved with community and industry-related organizations, serving on boards and committees focused on driving tourism and convention business to Portland and promoting sustainability throughout the community. The Doubletree Hotel Portland is the third-largest hotel in Oregon. It encompasses 477 guest rooms; the Executive Meeting Center, with 50,000 square feet of meeting space; and two full-service restaurants.
Steve will be the guest speaker during Saturday's breakfast.
William Fig, Esq., Sussman Shank LLP
William Fig is licensed to practice in Oregon (1995) and Washington (2003). His practice focuses on business and real estate disputes, construction law, and commercial debtor/creditor matters. Bill represents creditors, general contractors, subcontractors, and small to mid-sized businesses. He assists a number of large material suppliers in collecting on their customer accounts, including handling administrative claims against available surety bonds.
Please join Bill on Construction Day, September 22, from 2:30 - 3:45 p.m, as he discusses, "Foreclosure Process, Pitfalls, How to Get Paid: Horror Stories and How to Avoid Them"., and again at 3:45 p.m. for “Effectively Managing Joint Checks, Notices of Non-Responsibility, Lien Waivers, and Other Games Customers Play”.
Robert M. Fishman, Esq., Shaw Gussis Fishman Glantz Wolfson & Towbin LLC
Robert Fishman is the co-chair of the Bankruptcy, Reorganization and Creditors Rights practice at Shaw Gussis. His practice is concentrated in the areas of debtor-creditor relations, insolvency and bankruptcy, representing a wide range of clients in business cases throughout the United States. He has extensive participation in all aspects of bankruptcy cases, including significant representation of Trustees, Debtors in Possession, Creditors’ Committees and Equity Committees, secured and unsecured creditors, purchasers of assets and litigants in bankruptcy adversary proceedings. Additionally, he has considerable experience in the area of informal, out-of-court workouts and assignments for the benefit of creditors. Mr. Fishman has represented clients in numerous industries, including health care, telecommunications, manufacturing, real estate, retail, transportation, and financial services.
Bob will speak on Thursday, September 23, from 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. with colleagues regarding "Insolvency and Bankruptcy Update," and participate in both “Ask the Attorney” sessions on Friday, September 24.
Rudet Fountain, National Sales Manager, United Tranz*Actions
Rudet Fountain is the National Sales Manager for United Tranz*Actions (UTA) in Miami Florida. UTA is the preferred provider of cash management services for the National Association of Credit Management (NACM). He travels extensively across the country speaking at seminars and consulting with businesses about the current market conditions and latest trends of cash management. With more than 20 years of experience as a business owner/manager in the service related industry, he understands and appreciates the complexity of the business environment today. He is a graduate of Georgia State University with a degree in Marketing Research and Business Management. Rudet resides in Atlanta GA and is the father of three children. Join Rudet as he discusses “The Cutting Edge in Electronic Payments” on Friday, September 24 from 9:45 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.
Liz Hagberg, Payment Solutions Consultant, US Bank Payment Solutions
Liz has been a banking industry sales leader for fifteen years, the past seven years as a national sales leader with US Bank, with the prior eight years as a recognized leader at First Data Corp. and Wells Fargo Merchant Services. Liz began her banking career as a Business Banker, promoted to a Branch Assistant Manager, and then transitioned into Merchant Services, and Credit Card Processing Sales.
Liz grew up in the Roseburg, Oregon area and attended college in Eugene, Oregon. She was trained in the medical /dental field, worked a number of years as a pharmacy assistant, and then moved to the dental field as a dental assistant. After relocation to Corvallis, Oregon she started a number of small business ventures of her own in retail and services. Each of these were successful ventures, and was eventually sold, as her interests transitioned to sales in commercial broadcasting, and from there to sales in the banking industry.
Liz contributes her time to civic and national causes. She’s served on the Board for the Muscular Dystrophy Association in Eugene, Oregon and the American Cancer Society with fundraising projects. She participates with the Corvallis Chamber of Commerce and the business/civic association LeTip of Salem, Oregon. She volunteered at the YMCA as a Fitness/Aerobics Instructor and volunteers with the Portland Yacht Club.
Please join Liz, along with Krista Noland also from US Bank, as they discuss "Avoiding Business Credit Fraud," at Construction Day, on Wednesday, September 22, from 9:15 - 9:45 a.m.
Michael has over twenty years of experience litigating complex business disputes, construction claims, creditor’s rights, estate and trust disputes, and warranty claims. Michael’s bottom line and client-centric approach leads to early and cost effective resolution of disputes whether through direct negotiation, mediation or arbitration. He represents businesses and individuals in a wide range of industries and issues, including the following: Construction, Equipment Financing and Leases, Estates and Trusts Disputes, Fiduciary Liability, Food Manufacturing, Limited Liability Company and Partnership Disputes, Purchase and Sale of Businesses and Assets, Viatical Investments, Wholesale Distributing.
Michael will discuss "Case Law Update: Liens, Bonds, Joint Checks," during Construction Day on September 22, from 1 - 2:15 p.m.
Brett Hanft, CBA, Credit Manager, American International Forest Products
Brett M. Hanft, CBA, is Credit Manager at American International Forest Products, LLC. He earned an associates degree from Southern Oregon State College and a Bachelor’s degree from Willamette University. Brett earned his CBA designation in 1991. Through his involvement with NACM Oregon, CFDD Portland, and CFDD National, he has been recognized as the NACM local and National CBA of the year, CFDD National Distinguished Member Award recipient, CFDD-Portland Chapter Outstanding New Member, and Distinguished Member Award recipient. Brett served on the CFDD-National Board as a Member-at-Large and four years as Area Director, representing the three local CFDD chapters in the state of Oregon. He is a CFDD Portland Chapter Past President and has just been re-elected to lead the local CFDD Portland chapter for 2010-2011.
Sue Hein, President, Rapid Bind, Inc.
Since joining Rapid Bind in 1985, Sue has served our customers in a variety of roles, including stints in estimating and sales. She entered into the company partnership in 1992 and became Rapid Bind president in early 2004. She oversees daily company operations. Her prior experience includes accounting and administrative management at both real estate firms and a prominent local newspaper. When not at Rapid Bind, she enjoys hiking, gardening, and spending time with her grandchildren.
Mary Joe Heston, Esq., Lane Powell Attorneys and Counselors
Mary Jo's commercial litigation areas of practice include: Contract and UCC Litigation and Transactional Work , Business Bankruptcies, Reorganizations and Workouts, Creditors’ Remedies, and International Insolvency Matters. Her profession experience includes: Adjunct Professor, Debtor Creditor Law, Seattle University, 1984-Present, Adjunct Professor, Corporate Reorganization Course, University of Washington School of Law, 1997-1999.
Mary Jo was named a Washington “Super Lawyer,” Washington Law & Politics, 2006 – 2010 (“Top 50 Women Washington Super Lawyers,” 2008-2010 and “Top 100 Washington Super Lawyers,” 2008). She has been recognized for her work in bankruptcy law by The Legal 500 (United States), 2009 and recommended by Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business, Bankruptcy/Restructuring, 2006, 2009, 2010. She has been peer Review Rated “AV” in Martindale-Hubbell.
Please join Mary Jo during International Business Day when she discusses "International Insolvency and Chapter 15 of the US Bankruptcy Code" from 1:15 - 2:15 p.m.
Ron Hill, Director of Credit and Collections, Xerox Corporation
Ron has been in the credit profession for many years and is highly respected within the industry and as a professional instructor to credit groups. Ron received his degree in Business Administration from Portland State University; a master’s degree in Management from City University, Portland, Oregon; and a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Capella University, Minneapolis, Minnesota. He is a licensed CPA with the state of Washington and a CFP Candidate with Boston Institute of Finance, Boston University.
Ron will share his knowledge in his presentation “Leadership and Communication” on Friday, September 24 from 9:45 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Douglas Hookland, Esq., Scott-Hookland LLP
Doug is the managing partner of the firm. He practices substantially in the areas of creditor's rights and construction law where he represents owners, developers, design professionals, prime contractors, subcontractors and material and equipment suppliers, with an emphasis on subcontractors and suppliers. He has been admitted to practice in both state and federal courts in the following states: Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Alaska. Doug was recently selected to Oregon SuperLawyers 2009, as chosen by his peers in the community and through independent research. He is a frequent speaker and presented of written materials to trade groups, legal assistants and attorneys in the areas of construction law and creditor's rights.
Please join Douglas on Construction Day from 3:45 – 5 p.m. along with William Fig, Esq., Sussman Shank LLP, and Rick Weisman, CCE, Finance Manager, Graybar Electric Co., Inc., as they discuss “Effectively Managing Joint Checks, Notices of Non-Responsibility, Lien Waivers, and Other Games Customers Play”.
Doug Jacobson, CCE, Credit Manager, XPEDX
Doug Jacobson is the Division Credit Manager for Xpedx in Portland, OR and Seattle, WA. Prior to joining the Xpedx team in September of 2004, Doug was the Credit Manager for 10 years and Corporate Credit Manager for 7 years with Familian Northwest. Doug is an active member of the Paper Industry Group, has served as chairman of the Plumbing and Waterworks Industry Group, and has served on the NACM Board for the past 5 years including as Chairman of the Board in 2009.
Join Doug along with Debbie Thorne as they present “Working Effectively with Your Attorney” on Friday, September 24 from 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Carol has been in the credit field for over 30 years. She has held positions as Accounts Receivable Specialist, Full Charge Bookkeeper, Traffic Manager, Assistant Sales Manager, Contract Fund Auditor, Customer Service Manager, Collections Specialist, Credit Manager and Corporate Credit Manager.
Carol received her Certified International Credit Professional designation in 2008. She is a member of NACM Oregon and CFDD Portland Chapter. Carol is also an active member of NACM Oregon’s International Trade Group. In 2008 Carol received CFDD Portland Chapter’s Outstanding New Member Award. She was CFDD Portland Chapter’s Secretary of the Board of Directors for Year 2009-2010 and is currently Vice President of the Board, CFDD Portland Chapter for year 2010-2011.
Marsha Johnson, CCE, Corporate Credit Manager, TEC Equipment
Marsha earned her CCE designation in August 2009. Prior to joining TEC in 2004, Marsha worked for Household Finance, Industrial Leasing, and NACM Oregon. Marsha is a graduate of the University of Washington and earned her BA in Economics. She has been an instructor for the Good Morning Credit! series, and has written articles for the Business Credit Journal. Marsha joined the CFDD Portland Chapter in 2004 and served as Vice President in 2004-05 and President in 2005-06. She is an active member of NACM, has served as chairman of the Trucking Industry Group, and presently serves on the Board of Directors of NACM Oregon.
Please join Marsha along with Marilyn Rea on Friday morning over breakfast for "Certification Roadmap Introduction" and learn how to jump start your quest for certification!
Ernie Kangas, Vice President, Trade Credit Insurance, Heffernan Insurance Brokers
Ernie Kangas is a native Oregonian and graduated the University of Oregon in 1972 with BA in Finance. He then received a Master of International Management from the American Graduate School of International Management in 1973. His 39 year career solely in trade credit insurance began in 1973 with the Foreign Credit Insurance Association (FCIA) in New York City. During his ten year career with FCIA, besides New York, he also worked in Milwaukee, WI, Los Angeles and the Bay Area. The next 29 years have been as a specialty broker of trade credit insurance starting the brokerage side with the London-based Hogg Robinson & Gardner Mountain, plc, in their subsidiary, Credit Insurance Associates (CIA), starting their west coast operation in the Bay Area. CIA eventually became Aon Trade Credit, Inc. The last four years, he has been at Heffernan Insurance Brokers here in Portland. He and his wife of 40 years live in an 1891 Queen Anne Victorian on the National Historical Registry, in Oregon City.
Join Ernie with other panelists as they focus on Asia, Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East as part of their Roundtable Discussion at 2:15 pm during International Business Day on September 22, 2010.
Alice Knight, VP of Finance & Administration, Paper Products Marketing (USA), Inc.
Alice Knight is Vice President of Finance & Administration for Paper Products Marketing (USA) Inc., an international paper trading company headquartered in Portland, Oregon. Mrs. Knight has more than 35 years of experience in International Finance and is an active member of FCIB and NACM. She has served as Co-Chair, Panel Member, and Presenter at Annual Global Conferences, served as President of FCIB Forest Products Group and participated in FCIB Conferences in Mexico, Puerto Rico, Munich and Brussels. She is currently a member of FCIB Board of Directors and the FCIB Hotline Committee.
Join Alice along with Raeann Binau during International Business Day on September 22 for their presentation, "Doing Business Internationally", from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Dr. Chris Kuehl, Managing Director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
Chris Kuehl is the co-founder (with Keith Prather) and Managing Director of Armada Corporate Intelligence, a company created in 1999 to provide strategy foundation, competitive intelligence, business analysis and economic forecasting for corporate clients. Armada’s clients include YRC Worldwide, TranSystems, Spencer Fane Britt and Browne, KPMG, Hallmark International, Weitz Industrial among others.
Dr. Kuehl will participate and present "Is This the Recovery We Have Heard So Much About?" at the NAFCA meeting on Friday, September 24 at 10 a.m., and again at the general session from 12:30 p.m. - 1:15 p.m..
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Ted LaBadie, Assistant Vice President - Business Development, Equifax Commercial Information Systems, Equifax
Ted LaBadie is AVP – Business Development, and is responsible for managing the U.S. Commercial Sales Agent and Resellers Channel. Ted has worked for Equifax Commercial Information Solutions since just after its formation 9+ years ago, and has served in a wide variety of positions, including sales, marketing and product management. Ted has conducted numerous commercial credit workshops and presentations geared towards the commercial credit industry.
Prior to joining Equifax Commercial Solutions, Ted’s background was primarily in commercial credit, including serving as the Commercial Credit and Collections Manager for GE Capital Commercial Direct, a division of GE Capital that services the credit and other needs of small businesses, as well as previous management experience working for the U.S. Small Business Administration in Atlanta, Georgia. Ted has a BBA in Finance from the University of Georgia.
Please join Ted on Friday, September 24, from 8 - 9:30 a.m, for an overview of Equifax's New Products and Services.
Bruce S. Nathan, Esq., Lowenstein Sandler, Attorneys at Law
Bruce S. Nathan is a member of the firm's Bankruptcy, Financial Reorganization & Creditors' Rights Group. Mr. Nathan concentrates on all aspects of creditors' rights and workouts in bankruptcy, out-of-court matters and other types of insolvency cases for secured creditors, creditors' committees, unsecured creditors, trustees and other creditors. Mr. Nathan serves as counsel to the unsecured creditors’ committee in Interstate Bakeries Corporation and Advanced Marketing Services Inc. and has represented substantial creditor interests in the Enron, WorldCom, Solutia, Metromedia Fiber Network, Adelphia, Calpine, Heilig-Meyers, and Linens ‛n Things Chapter 11 cases. Mr. Nathan also negotiates and prepares letters of credit, guarantees, security, consignment, bailment, tolling, and other agreements for credit departments of institutional clients. Mr. Nathan is also involved in the negotiation and preparation of loan, letter of credit, and factoring documentation and other matters for banks, asset-based lenders and factors.
Bruce will speak on Thursday, September 23, from 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. with colleagues regarding "Insolvency and Bankruptcy Update," and will participate in both “Ask the Attorney” sessions.
Jonathan Nicholas, Vice President, ODS Companies
Jonathan Nicholas was born and raised in the coal-mining valleys of Wales. He was 14 years old when his grandfather, a coal miner, first took him 1500-feet underground. The experience, Nicholas says, gave him a renewed interest in schoolwork.
He graduated from the University of Bristol, taking honors in political science and sociology, then spent four years working on international aid projects in the Himalayas. In 1982, he joined The Oregonian newspaper where he spent 26 years writing the column that served as a breakfast staple for the state.
In 1988, Nicholas invited readers to join him on a bicycle ride across Oregon. Each September, thousands of cyclists from all over the world now join him on Cycle Oregon. The tour has grown into much more than a charitable effort to bridge the divide between rural and urban. With an endowment of more than $1 million, it serves today as a key change agent forging a role for bicycling in everything from easing traffic congestion and enhancing air quality to fighting childhood obesity and fostering tourism.
Late last year, Nicholas says, he decided the time had come to stop writing about what ought to be done and start actually doing something. He joined ODS where he now cycles to work every day and helps the company he calls "committed to reforming health care in Oregon."
Krista L. Noland, Treasury Management Partner, US Bank
Krista L. Noland is a Treasury Management Partner for U.S. Bank. In this role, she is responsible for business sales activity, service and support for Small Business Banking and Business Banking on a bank-wide basis as well as advising and educating businesses as to fraud protection and prevention.
Ms. Noland began her career with U.S. Bank in 2005. Prior to her current position at U.S. Bank, she worked as a Banker with West Coast Bank, focusing on business analyzed product and services accounts.
She has attended local college in Salem, focusing on public relations and speaking. She has completed the Community Banking Commercial Certification Program, with a strong emphasis on business fraud protection. Ms. Noland continues her education through online and study programs.
Actively involved in the Salem, Oregon community, Ms Noland currently serves as a Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassador for over 10 years, Board member of the PGE Festival of Lights Holiday Parade, and Network Exchange Club. Her past experience also includes serving as a Board member of the Salem Area Young Professionals and mentoring Willamette University MBA students.
Please join Krista, along with Liz Hagberg also from US Bank, as they discuss "Avoiding Business Credit Fraud," at Construction Day, on Wednesday, September 22, from 9:15 - 9:45 a.m.
Jeff O’Banion, CCE/CICP, Director of Credit, NW Natural Gas
Jeff is currently Director of Credit for Northwest Natural Gas Company with headquarters in Portland, Oregon. He has served on many committees at the local, regional, and national levels, and is active in industry groups as well as professional learning and continuing education programs. Jeff served on the NACM Oregon Board of Directors for several years including a term as Chairman. He has also served on the NACM Oregon Foundation Board of Directors since 2004. Jeff has been an active member of CFDD since 1982 serving in many committees, Board and Officer positions, at both the local and national levels.
Marilyn Rea, CCE, Controller, Pacific Architectural Wood Products
Marilyn Rea, CCE, Controller for Pacific Architectural Wood Products, was first introduced to the world of credit through her job at JC Penney in the Credit & Layaway Department. She became the Credit Manager of Northwest Pump and Equipment in 1983, and attributes being active in the Petroleum Industry Trade Group and attending NACM classes and seminars for providing skills and knowledge that defined the company's credit policy and procedures during her 18 year tenure.
Marilyn served as 2007-2008 Portland-Chapter CFDD President, and credits CFDD for the mentoring and motivation to attain her CBA and CBF designations in 2004 and earning CCE designation in 2009. She is a strong supporter of the certification process as it provides designees higher levels of expertise and recognition while demonstrating a commitment to the credit profession.
Please join Marilyn along with Marsha Johnson on Friday morning over breakfast for "Certification Roadmap Introduction" and learn how to jump start your quest for certification!
James Rice, Senior Analyst, Creditntell
Jim joined Creditntell.com/F&D Reports as a senior analyst in February 2007, bringing with him 30 years of credit industry experience. Previously, Jim was an equities analyst for Susquehanna Financial Group and spent 14 years as an EVP of Bernard Sands. Jim also worked in various credit capacities in the factoring industry. At Creditntell.com, Jim monitors Mass Merchandisers and Department Stores. Jim received his BA from Hunter College and did his post-graduate studies at St. John's University.
Cindy Robert, Lobbyist, Rainmakers LLP
Cindy Robert is the founder of Rainmakers. She has been lobbying the Oregon State Legislature for more than fourteen years both with Martin & Associates and for several private clients. In addition to her lobby work, Cindy served as the administrator for the Oregon Transit Association, a non-profit organization comprised of transit providers statewide. In that capacity, she was involved in member recruitment, communication and retention, grassroots education and mobilization, state and federal reporting, meeting management, crisis management and government relations efforts at both the state and federal level. Cindy is an expert in all aspects of government relations, legislative strategy, campaign development and advising, organizational development and governance structure, corporate partnership and leveraged packaging.
Join Cindy on Wednesday, September 22, from 12 - 1 p.m, during her Construction Day luncheon presentation "Current State of Construction Laws and What to Expect in 2011."
Joyce Simas, Strategic Relationship Manager, Experian's Business Information Services, Experian
Joyce Simas is a Strategic Relationship Manager for Experian Business Information Services’ Partnership and Reseller Channel. Ms. Simas joined Experian, previously TRW, in April 1988 and has more than 22 years of commercial credit expertise. In her current role, she is responsible for new business partnerships and managing resellers. She currently works with several of the division’s largest reseller partners, and is responsible for expanding these relationships by assisting them with new business development, market strategy, management of business issues, and sales training.
Ms. Simas has conducted numerous presentations and workshops geared towards the commercial credit industry, educating businesses on solutions and tools that help their business succeed in every aspect of the customer’s lifecycle.
Prior to joining Experian, Ms. Simas held positions in the Financial Services industry, which included Financial Services Manager, Sales Trainer, and Sales and Service Manager. Her consultative approach in present and past roles focused on creating, developing, and maintaining relationships, as the foundation for organizational success.
Please join Joyce on Thursday, September 23 at 1:30 for a Roundtable Discussion of Experian's new business products and technology.
Brenda Terreault, Esq., CBA, Collection Services Manager, NACM Oregon
Brenda is the Collection Services Manager for NACM Oregon. She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Maine and a law degree from Rutgers University. After a year-long clerkship with two North Carolina Supreme Court Justices, she had her first taste of bankruptcy law working with a trustee in a Chapter 11 case. Her career has always included some aspect of debtor/creditor law ever since. As a member of both Virginia and Oregon State Bar Associations, she has 18 years' experience as an attorney, investigator and operations manager in governmental, corporate and law firm settings.
On Wednesday, September 22, during Construction Suppliers Day at 10 a.m, Brenda will discuss "Building Blocks: The Personal Guaranty". On Friday, September 24, join her for “Credit Applications: Getting it Right in the Beginning,” from 8 – 9:30 a.m., and she will participate in both “Ask the Attorney” sessions.
Deborah L. Thorne, Esq., Barnes & Thornburg, LLP
Deborah L. Thorne is a partner in the Chicago office of Barnes & Thornburg LLP and a member of the Finance, Insolvency and Restructuring Department. Ms. Thorne concentrates her practice in the areas of creditors’ rights, bankruptcy, financial restructurings, secured lending, and commercial transactions encompassing all phases of restructuring of corporate clients, commercial litigation and representation of creditors seeking recovery for breach and liquidation of contract and other claims; negotiation of restructuring plans, financing and other disputes; representation of creditors' committees; representation of secured creditors in UCC foreclosures, replevins of personal property, workouts of non-performing loans, representation of trade vendors in preference defense and reclamation claims, and representation of various parties in assignments for benefit of creditors. Her clients have included financial institutions, corporations, and partnerships in a variety of industries including healthcare, truck manufacturing, food retail, advertising, and automotive supply.
Join Debbie as she presents “Working Effectively with Your Attorney” on Friday, September 24 from 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. She will also participate in both “Ask the Attorney” sessions.
Rick has been a Graybar Financial Manager since 1982. During his 28-year tenure, his territories have included Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and Hawaii.
While located in Spokane, Rick was an active member of NACM Inland Northwest, where he served on several committees. He was a member of the Board of Directors from 1986 through 1995, and he served as Chairman in 1995.
Graybar relocated Rick to Portland in 1995, and he has been an active member of NACM Oregon since his arrival. He has served on numerous Association committees, with a special commitment to Membership. Rick was elected to the Board of Directors in 1999 and presently serves as Chairman.
Rick earned the Certified Credit Executive designation in 2003. He has assisted NACM Oregon as an instructor for “Introduction to Credit” and “Good Morning Credit!” classes. He also has participated in a CFDD Portland seminar as a panel member. He attended the National Credit Congress in 2004.
Rick has been a strong, contributing member of electrical suppliers industry groups in Seattle, Spokane, and Portland since 1979. He has chaired groups in Spokane and Portland.
Rod Wheeland, CCE/CAE, President, NACM Oregon
Rodney B. Wheeland, CCE/CAE, has been president of NACM Oregon since 1995. Previously, he was general credit manager for Pendleton Woolen Mills. Rod served for seven years on the NACM Oregon Board of Directors, which he chaired in 1991-92. He is past chairman of the National Presidents Credit Council (Riemer), an association of present and past presidents of eighty national industry credit groups, and past chairman of the NACM Affiliate Secretarial Council, which represent the 49 NACM Affiliates on the NACM National Board of Directors. Rod has a master’s degree from York University in Toronto, achieved the CCE certification in 1991, and the CAE in 2007.