Jim Barker is a chemical engineer and global operations leader with more than four decades of experience leading large-scale manufacturing organizations across North America and Europe. A graduate of Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Jim built his career in the chemical industry, advancing into senior leadership roles responsible for multi-site operations, process engineering, and global technology strategy.

Throughout his career, Jim has led organizations overseeing up to eight manufacturing facilities in the United States and five in Europe, in addition to joint venture operations internationally. As Global Director of Process Engineering for Hexion, he guided worldwide process optimization, established technical standards, and supported major capital projects.

Now serving as an independent consultant through James Barker LLC, Jim advises companies on operational effectiveness, project management, and strategic growth initiatives. As a Highmark advisor, he brings a steady, systems-oriented leadership perspective grounded in global experience.

Paul Leinweber is a retired Professional Engineer (PE) and 33 year employee of ExxonMobil Refining and Chemicals. A graduate of Louisiana State University, he began his career at ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company in New Jersey. He took a leave of absence early in his career and served as a volunteer for the US Peace Corps in the Seychelles.

As technical supervisor Paul recruited, hired and trained many professionals early in their careers. Paul led many cross functional teams focused on driving continuous improvement in the organization. He later became an expert in Process Safety Management and served as the Leader of the Safe Operations Committee for 12 years.

As a Highmark advisor, Paul brings a disciplined, systems-oriented leadership perspective shaped by decades of operating within large, complex organizations.

Jeff Rome is a seasoned financial services and organizational leader with more than three decades of experience in commercial banking, strategy, and leadership development. A graduate of Louisiana Tech University with a degree in Business Administration, Jeff spent over 30 years with JPMorgan Chase, where he advanced through leadership roles across retail banking, business banking, credit management, and national operations.

Jeff's experience spans local, national, and international contexts, including responsibility for teams across the United States and Manila. His leadership work has included sales and credit management, process improvement, staffing models, performance management, and talent development.

Currently serving as Senior Vice President and Corporate Strategy Manager at JD Bank, Jeff works directly with the CEO and Board of Directors to design and execute the bank's strategic plan. As a Highmark advisor, Jeff brings deep practical insight into leadership and execution.

Rachel Ransom is a marketing strategist and brand development professional who helps purpose-driven organizations translate their vision into powerful, cohesive storytelling. With a background in creative leadership and a deep understanding of business strategy, she brings both artistic perspective and operational insight to every project she leads.

As the founder of Magnolia Marketing and co-founder of Living Well, Rachel built and led teams that developed marketing strategies, digital content, and brand systems for clients across industries. In her current role with MESH, she continues to guide businesses in shaping narratives that stand out in competitive markets.

As a Highmark advisor, Rachel brings a rare combination of creative intuition and business acumen. She equips business leaders to communicate their purpose with confidence and build brands that resonate deeply.

Loren Ransom is an operations and systems leader with more than 15 years of experience helping organizations improve clarity, efficiency, and execution. His background spans operational leadership, process design, technology implementation, and team development.

In senior leadership roles, including Interim Executive Director and Operations Manager at Heritage Ranch, Loren led financial analysis and operational planning, developed multi-year forecasts, and built performance dashboards to support data-driven decision-making.

As a Highmark advisor, Loren brings practical, execution-focused insight into how businesses can operate more effectively. He helps leaders clarify roles, design repeatable processes, and establish performance metrics that drive accountability.

Pat Lovell is a veteran business executive with more than four decades of experience in the global chemical industry. A graduate of Louisiana State University, he began his career with The Dow Chemical Company, where he progressed through roles in operations, sales, and product management before advancing into senior marketing leadership.

He continued his career with Gaylord Chemical Company as Executive Vice President of International Business and Principal, leading the company's marketing and expansion initiatives across multiple international markets.

As a Highmark advisor, Pat brings a wealth of marketing and international business experience that bridges strategy and practice. His decades of leadership in global markets equip him to guide participants in developing clear market positioning and scalable business systems.