Mentors

Russell Stern

Mentor

Sector:
Technology
|
Location:
Florida
Background

Russell Stern, a seasoned executive with 35+ years of experience, owns a consulting practice in Jupiter in Florida. Expert in business functions, he simplifies problems and empowers business leaders. Notable for leading Solarflare Communications' successful acquisition. Accomplished public speaker and mentor, fostering growth in business owners and staff.

Independent Director & Board Advisory Experience

  • Mentor, Founder Institute, CA
  • Board of Directors Member, Escrow.Com, Santa Ana, CA
  • Board of Directors Member, Solarflare Communications
  • Chairman of the Orange County School for the Arts Foundation, Santa Ana, CA
  • Board of Directors Member and CEO Coach, Newport Communications, CA
  • Board of Directors Member, JNI Inc., San Diego, CA

Skills:

  • Product development
    • Semiconductors, Circuit Boards, Systems
  • Product marketing – all aspects
  • Manufacturing
    • Disk Drives
  • ERP Deployment
    • Circuit Boards
    • Semiconductors
  • Failure analysis
  • Quality Systems
  • Venture Capital fundraising
    • Raised over $200m
  • Executive Leadership training and mentoring
  • Board management training

Credentials:

Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, RIT, Rochester, NY 1979

Our Trustpilot reviews...

I'm delighted to have joined Connectd, a platform that brings together start-ups, investors and advisors/NEDs – the latter being my interest. Having left full-time employment, I became a founding Non-Executive Director of a Community Interest Company and a Trustee of a local charity. I had also been looking for additional Non-Executive roles when I was introduced to Connectd. I was impressed by the sophisticated nature of the ecosystem, which enables searches for roles through detailed filters, as well as providing training through the NED Academy, help with CV writing, mentoring, template documents and other resources. Connectd also guarantees a placement with a business.

An additional feature of the platform is the Connectd Investor Community, where investors can interact, conduct due diligence, share deal-flow and learn together. The functionality allows like-minded investors to connect, with separate groups for each; to share deal flow (not just with companies on the platform) and to co-invest; to access partnerships such as Crunchbase membership and Vauban discount codes; and to create public or private groups.

I'm now working with a start-up that I was introduced to through Connectd, initially pro bono. There's a lot going on and a lot to do - we're raising funds and there's an exciting future in prospect!

Steve Hutchings

,

Transition to Portfolio Advisor

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I'm delighted to have joined Connectd, a platform that brings together start-ups, investors and advisors/NEDs – the latter being my interest. Having left full-time employment, I became a founding Non-Executive Director of a Community Interest Company and a Trustee of a local charity. I had also been looking for additional Non-Executive roles when I was introduced to Connectd. I was impressed by the sophisticated nature of the ecosystem, which enables searches for roles through detailed filters, as well as providing training through the NED Academy, help with CV writing, mentoring, template documents and other resources. Connectd also guarantees a placement with a business.

An additional feature of the platform is the Connectd Investor Community, where investors can interact, conduct due diligence, share deal-flow and learn together. The functionality allows like-minded investors to connect, with separate groups for each; to share deal flow (not just with companies on the platform) and to co-invest; to access partnerships such as Crunchbase membership and Vauban discount codes; and to create public or private groups.

I'm now working with a start-up that I was introduced to through Connectd, initially pro bono. There's a lot going on and a lot to do - we're raising funds and there's an exciting future in prospect!

Steve Hutchings

,

Transition to Portfolio Advisor

Amazing experience and a perfect 'one stop shop' for those wanting to move towards a portfolio career and get everything they need to do that!

Christopher

,

Transition to Portfolio Advisor

I highly recommend Connectd. I joined the Transition to Portfolio programme in 2023 and have enjoyed the content, lessons, and networking. In kicking off my portfolio and NED career I am already working with three startups via the Connectd platform.

James Scott

,

Transition to Portfolio Advisor

I joined The Connectd Platform to continue to develop my portfolio career and so far to date its has delivered on that exact promise very quickly. I have already secured a board advisory role. The learning Resoruces are superb and very relatable, whilst offering secure and engaging online content.

I would actively encourage anyone looking to grow and develop their portfolio career to dive into The Connectd Platform.

Shaun Glanville

,

Transition to Portfolio Advisor

I joined the Connectd platform back in October last year. I have completed a comprehensive Non Exec CPD course and have attended some brilliant seminars, webinars and networking events too. The easy to use platform and the personal touch of the Connectd team are the winning combination here. The support from everyone is first class. As I head into the new year looking for my first board or advisory role I can’t wait to get matched up with my first investor/start up!

Dawn Spencer

,

Transition to Portfolio Advisor