LEADERSHIP
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Avinash Nichkawde
Founder & Group CEO
Avinash Nichkawde is a Chartered Accountant (1988 batch) and former national-level sportsman with a dynamic career spanning over three decades across three continents. His professional journey covers tax practice, business consulting, international education, and entrepreneurship.
After migrating to Australia in 1989, he founded Avinash Nichkawde & Co, which became a top accounting and consulting firm with over 7,000 clients. He later established international colleges in Australia and New Zealand and acquired a pilot training school in Melbourne. His holding company nearly went public with 200 employees.
Since 2012, Avinash has been a U.S. resident, where he turned around a struggling California business into a recession- and pandemic-proof success. Trained in business brokerage and franchise consulting, he owned four territories under a major U.S. franchise and has guided many clients in investment-based migration.
He holds dual citizenship (Australia & USA) and has conducted business in over 40 countries, driving AN Global’s international expansion.
Paula Kruger
Independent Director, Operations
Paula began her career at Citibank, holding roles in Operations, Banking, and Customer Service in both New York and Korea. Her diverse responsibilities across divisions provided valuable leadership and management experience, including the unique opportunity to open Citibank’s first branch in Seoul.
She went on to manage increasingly larger organizations at American Express, EDS, and Qwest Telecommunications. At EDS, Paula oversaw the global CRM division, including a worldwide network of call centers. As EVP of the Consumer Division at Qwest, she led operations across 14 states. She later managed the Consumer Division at Eir in Dublin, Ireland.
Following her corporate career, Paula founded and successfully exited an international promotional products company. This experience sparked her passion for mergers and acquisitions.
For the past 10 years, she has worked globally with business owners across industries, helping them navigate the complexities of buying and selling companies with expert guidance and strategic insight.
Dr.Russell Read
Independent Director, Market Capitals
Russell Read currently serves as Chief Investment Officer at MEASA Partners Ltd. in Abu Dhabi and is a member of our Board of Directors and Compensation Committee. He previously held the CIO role at 10X Capital and Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation, and was Managing Partner at C Change Group LLC, focusing on infrastructure and private equity investments.
Earlier, he served as Managing Director at MSCI Ltd., where he advanced private market analytics, and held senior investment leadership roles at Gulf Investment Corporation, CalPERS, and Deutsche Asset Management. Russell brings deep global expertise in natural resources and financial services.
He holds degrees in Statistics, Finance, International Business (University of Chicago), and Economics and Political Science (Stanford University), along with CFA, Ch.F.C, and C.L.U certifications.
He currently serves on Wyoming’s Investment Funds Committee and has previously advised entities such as the President’s Working Group, Hedge Fund Standards Board, and University of Maine.
SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM
Our executive team has over a hundred years of combined business experience,
with extensive backgrounds in accounting, analytics, strategic marketing, and business sales.
Brian Keen
Chief Executive Officer, Australia
Brian is a seasoned serial entrepreneur who has owned 25 businesses and brings over 30 years of experience in and out of the franchise industry. His journey began as a franchisee with multiple outlets under the Bedshed group in Western Australia. He later transitioned into roles as a Franchise Broker, Consultant, and eventually a Franchisor, where he built six new franchise brands, expanding them to over 120 outlets within five years.
For the past two decades, Brian has worked as a franchise consultant, helping numerous businesses successfully adopt the franchise model. His strategic guidance has led to greater profitability and has empowered business owners to reduce operational burdens and achieve a healthier work-life balance.
Collectively, the businesses Brian has supported have grown by more than A$5 billion, a testament to his deep industry knowledge, mentorship, and impact on the franchise ecosystem.
Rajesh Ratan
Chief Executive Officer, India
Rajesh Ratan is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of corporate experience across diverse industries such as logistics, education, real estate, and hospitality. A Delhi University graduate with a postgraduate degree in Business Management, he has held key leadership roles including CEO, COO, and Director, consistently delivering strong business outcomes while managing teams of various sizes.
Rajesh has travelled extensively across India, gaining deep market insights and firsthand experience of regional business dynamics. Passionate about building and scaling businesses, he excels in strategic planning, execution, and team development.
With a strong background in franchising, Rajesh has played a pivotal role in business modeling, partner development, and deal structuring. He acts as a mentor and catalyst for investors and business owners, helping them scale through effective franchise strategies. Known for his positive attitude, patience, and results-driven leadership, Rajesh continues to guide businesses towards sustainable growth and success.
Dr. Meenaxi Dhariwal
Chief Operating Officer, India
Dr. Meenaxi Dhariwal is a seasoned entrepreneur, professor, and author with over 30 years of experience across academia, business, and research. She served as Dean at ICFAI, a top business school in Mumbai, and has been a visiting faculty at prestigious institutions, including IIT Bombay. Her insights on economic issues have been published in leading newspapers like the Financial Express and Dainik Bhaskar.
In 2017, she founded Alpha Global, offering international immersion programs for students and professionals. Passionate about entrepreneurship and mentorship, she established an incubation center at ICFAI to nurture budding entrepreneurs.
Dr. Dhariwal also served as Honorary Secretary of CSBE for six years, where she helped affiliate it with the International Council for Small Business (ICSB), a global organization based in Washington, DC, promoting small business development in over 85 countries. Her contributions continue to impact education, innovation, and global entrepreneurship.
Jorge Flores
Chief Executive Officer, Mexico
An accomplished Industrial Engineer with over 24 years of experience in the manufacturing and technology sectors, he has built a reputation for business leadership and innovation. He successfully founded and scaled a metal guardrail manufacturing company, leveraging strategic planning, process optimization, and operational efficiency to drive growth.
Recognizing new opportunities, he expanded into international markets, notably importing LED screens from China, blending technical expertise with global trade acumen. His persistent, results-driven approach allows him to identify emerging trends, build high-performing teams, and deliver tailored solutions that align with evolving market demands.
Respected for his ability to navigate complex challenges, he consistently drives performance while maintaining a focus on sustainable growth. His commitment to strategic development and continuous improvement has earned him recognition as a reliable leader across industries. He remains dedicated to creating long-term value through forward-thinking innovation and operational excellence.
Nwali Tochukwu
Chief Executive Officer, Africa
Nwali Tochukwu Friday is a seasoned entrepreneur, author, and business leader with over 20 years of experience, based in Lagos, Nigeria. He is the founder and CEO of TD Home & Real Estate Limited, where he focuses on identifying high-potential markets, securing scalable property investments, and connecting with buyers and investors.
He also leads TD Travel & Logistics, operating in both Nigeria and New Jersey, USA, managing operations to ensure growth and productivity. Nwali has authored two books: “Entrepreneurship as a Disruptive Thinker and Innovator” and “Entrepreneur Cracks The Palm-Kernel Solve The Problem,” reflecting his deep insights into business and innovation.
Previously, he held roles such as Airport Station Manager at ASKY Airlines and Agency Manager at Pat-Elo Travels. A results-oriented leader, Nwali is committed to delivering professional excellence through teamwork, coaching, and motivation, making a lasting impact across industries.
Krishanu Mitra
Chief Executive Officer, Middle East
Krishanu Mitra is a dynamic executive with over 25 years of global experience, successfully leading teams and delivering measurable results across APAC, NAM, LATAM, and EMEA. He specializes in franchise consulting, business transformation, and strategic leadership, helping companies achieve growth and operational excellence in diverse markets.
As a Franchise Consultant, Krishanu partners with franchisors and franchisees to build growth strategies, improve operations, and strengthen investor relations. He excels in managing transitions, large-scale transformations, and fostering innovation through agile practices and resilient leadership.
Academically, he holds an MBA from ICFAI University and completed a Senior Management Program in Global Leadership from IIM Lucknow. He is a Certified Six Sigma Black Belt, Lean Certified Professional, and PRINCE2 Practitioner, using these skills to drive process optimization and innovation.
Krishanu’s expertise in vendor management, diversity & inclusion, and mentoring positions him as a trusted advisor for businesses pursuing sustainable, strategic growth.
Ernesto Gomez
Director Franchising, Mexico
Ernesto Gómez Berjón is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in startup growth, franchising, corporate strategy, sales, and marketing. He has built a diverse career across the financial services, education, and consulting industries throughout Latin America.
Ernesto has held several key roles, including LATAM Manager for a Y Combinator-graduated fintech and a U.S.-based consulting firm supporting top regional banks. He has also been a franchisee, chief growth officer for a lending firm specializing in franchise financing, and a sales partner for a leading IP consulting firm in Mexico.
He serves as Academic Manager of the “Diplomado Franquicias de Alto Rendimiento” at Universidad Anahuac Mexico and is a founding member of the Instituto Latinoamericano de la Franquicia. Additionally, he is the editorial coordinator of Guía: Inversión Inteligente en Franquicias for Entrepreneur Magazine and a franchisee of Mexico’s largest coding school for children.
Dave Seligsohn
President, Business Consulting
Dave is a results-driven executive with a strong background in operational leadership and a strategic focus on growth. With extensive experience at the C-suite level, he has consistently driven business success through innovation, business development, and strategic partnerships.
Renowned for his analytical acumen, Dave excels at identifying complex challenges and implementing effective, scalable solutions. His ability to build and lead high-performing teams has led to sustained results across a variety of industries.
Dave is also known for his principled and compassionate leadership style, placing equal emphasis on the success and well-being of employees and clients alike. His commitment to organizational excellence is matched by a deep investment in personal development, both his own and that of those he mentors.
As a proven change agent, Dave has developed innovative models and benchmarks that have made a lasting impact on the organizations he’s worked with, driving consistent performance and transformation.
Peter Scaglione
VP Franchise Sales, USA
Peter Scaglione is a seasoned business leader with over 20 years of experience in sales, marketing, and strategic growth, with a strong focus on the franchise industry. He has a proven track record in franchise operations, territory expansion, and helping franchise owners improve performance and achieve sustainable growth.
Peter is known for creating high-performance cultures and consistently exceeding sales targets through strategic marketing and leadership. He has successfully developed new franchise locations, managed large territories, and provided hands-on mentorship to franchisees. His operational leadership has led to streamlined processes, 100% on-time royalty collections, and increased franchisee engagement.
Honored with accolades such as MVP and Top Sales, Peter brings a deep commitment to excellence, innovation, and results. His passion for mentorship and franchise development continues to drive both team success and individual franchisee growth, making him a trusted expert in expanding and scaling franchise businesses.
Elvia Martinez
Operations Manager, Mexico
With a degree in Auditing and Accounting from Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, this professional brings over ten years of experience leading administration, HR, and training departments for U.S. and Korean multinational companies. A results-driven and strategic leader, they have played a key role in organizational development by aligning HR initiatives with broader business goals and ensuring measurable outcomes.
Their expertise spans administration, finance, and HR, including supervising departments such as Accounts Payable/Receivable, taxation, inventory, budgeting, and cash flow reporting. Known for driving cost reduction, operational efficiency, and performance tracking, they have successfully developed and implemented employee engagement and assistance programs, contributing to a healthy workplace culture.
They excel in forecasting, strategic planning, and process improvement, consistently enhancing workflows and strengthening internal systems. Their ability to build strong relationships, develop talent, and lead cross-functional teams makes them a valuable asset in supporting sustainable business growth and operational excellence.
Akshay Nichkawde
Executive Director, Australia
Akshay Nichkawde holds a degree in Economics and Finance and was formerly an elite-level sportsperson in Australia, having competed nationally before an injury ended his athletic career. Transitioning from sports, Akshay ventured into entrepreneurship and consulting, building a strong reputation in the Educational and Business Services sector.
He founded Phoenix Compliance Management, a successful venture that was later acquired by AN Global Holdings. Following the acquisition, Akshay assumed a leadership role within the company and is now fully committed to driving its growth and vision forward.
Known for his strategic thinking and professional excellence, Akshay leads a team that delivers high-quality services with integrity and precision. He is focused on achieving consistently high standards across all operations and plays a key role in shaping the future of AN Global Holdings. His goal is to elevate the company to new heights with innovation and dedication.
Dr G. L Aggarwal
Executive Director, India
Dr. G. L. Aggarwal is a seasoned Chartered Accountant with over 44 years of experience, offering his expertise across both non-profit and for-profit sectors. His career has been marked by a commitment to innovation and efficiency, particularly in managing diverse projects with strategic and practical solutions. Beyond his professional endeavors, he also runs a respected NGO based in Delhi, reflecting his dedication to social impact and community service.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Aggarwal was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Social Work by the Global Council for Professional Education Mission, Global Peace University, USA.
Known for his charismatic leadership and results-driven approach, he fosters a positive work culture focused on individual and organizational growth. His ability to align vision with execution makes him a trusted advisor and an inspiring figure in both the corporate and social development arenas.
Vijay Kumar.B
Director Technology
Vijay Kumar Bandi is a results-driven professional with over 14 years of experience in project management, branding, and marketing. Having successfully led and executed 100+ projects, Vijay is recognized for his innovative mindset and ability to deliver impactful solutions that align with business goals.
He strongly believes in the power of technology as a catalyst for business growth and serves as a trusted advisor to clients, guiding them on how to strategically utilize IT to drive measurable outcomes. His ability to blend strategic vision with hands-on execution makes him a valuable asset across diverse industries.
Vijay excels at bridging the gap between creative ideas and technical implementation, ensuring client visions are effectively brought to life. His career reflects a commitment to excellence, innovation, and problem-solving, positioning him as a key contributor to transformative business initiatives.
Marilyn Ordas
VP Franchising, Canada
With over 20 years of experience in business management, office administration, marketing, and finance, she brings a broad and valuable skill set to every role she undertakes. Her academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and a Master’s in Public Administration, equipping her with a deep understanding of both corporate and government operations.
She is passionate about streamlining business processes and enhancing organizational performance. Known for her ability to lead cross-functional teams effectively, she has consistently delivered results aligned with strategic objectives. Her dynamic approach and problem-solving mindset allow her to adapt quickly and drive success across varied industries.
Beyond her professional achievements, she maintains a strong commitment to lifelong learning and is actively engaged in staying ahead of emerging trends and technologies. Her dedication to continuous improvement and innovation positions her as a forward-thinking leader in today’s evolving business landscape.
Edna Nyidu
Country Manager, Ghana
Edna Nyidu is a highly accomplished Director of Business Development with over 15 years of experience driving growth and expanding business potential. Known for her strategic thinking and deep understanding of market dynamics, she has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership across diverse industries.
Edna holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resource Management from King’s College University in Ghana, graduating with first-class honors and earning recognition as the best female student for the 2014/2015 academic year. Her professional journey includes significant roles at organizations such as Hands n Help, Klips Global LLC, Kalex Academy, and DG Financial Services Ltd. In each role, she played a transformative role in enhancing business operations and outcomes.
In 2017, Edna became a founding partner of Whitespace Media Services Ltd., where she continues to influence strategic direction and innovation. Her commitment to excellence and impactful leadership have earned her a respected place in the business development community.
Jessica Onyike
RVP Consulting, Africa
Jessica Ojingwa Onyike is a dynamic professional with strong expertise in business development and communication. She holds a Master’s degree in Public & International Affairs and a Bachelor’s in Theatre Arts, blending strategic insight with creative thinking. Since 2015, she has served as a Senior Business Development Executive at The Sun Publishing Limited, where she has played a key role in revenue growth.
Her professional background also includes experience at The Sun Newspaper and NTA Channel 9, where she sharpened her skills in media, writing, and public communication. Jessica is an active member of notable organizations like APCON and NIM, reflecting her dedication to continuous professional growth.
She has been honored with the Distinguished Eminent Lioness Award and has received recognition for her outstanding performance in revenue generation. Outside of work, Jessica enjoys writing, reading, and dancing, and her research interests include theatre therapy and sustainable development strategies.
Vincent Howell Celis
VP Sales & Marketing, US
He is a seasoned professional with a strong background in business development, sales, customer service (CSR), and technical support (TSR). With experience as a Head Business Development Manager, he has successfully led strategic initiatives to drive business growth and enhance client engagement. He also served as a Social Media Manager, managing digital campaigns and strengthening online brand visibility.
His role as Ambassador and Business Development Manager at GetCallers showcased his ability to build strong client relationships and support outreach strategies. His extensive work in the BPO industry has sharpened his communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Cebu, he brings a solid foundation in teaching and people management to his professional endeavors.
Adaptable and result-oriented, he thrives in both educational and corporate settings. He is passionate about continuous growth, innovation, and creating meaningful value in every role he takes on.
Kanchaza Victoria Hilongos
Executive Success Manager
With a well-rounded background in business development, executive support, customer service, and sales, she brings a strategic and results-driven mindset to every role. As a Business Development Manager, she has successfully led initiatives that drive growth, strengthen client relationships, and uncover new opportunities to support long-term business goals.
Her time as an Executive Assistant has sharpened her skills in managing high-level operations and supporting executive leadership with professionalism and discretion. Earlier in her career, she built a strong foundation in customer service and sales, developing excellent communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving abilities.
This diverse experience enables her to contribute effectively across various business functions and align with both strategic and operational priorities. She is passionate about enhancing efficiency, fostering collaboration, and delivering meaningful results that benefit clients and internal teams alike. Her adaptability and drive make her a valuable asset in any fast-paced business environment.
Kamlesh Ramani
RVP Biz. Consulting, UK
Kamlesh is a dynamic professional with over 17 years of experience across Investment Banking, Education, Property Investment, and Charitable Organizations. He began his career as a KYC Business Administrator in an investment bank before transitioning to the education sector, where he successfully led an educational institute. His work also includes advising clients on property investment and finance, showcasing his knowledge in strategic planning, legal matters, and financial management.
In the charitable sector, Kamlesh has managed finances, ensured legal compliance, and contributed to strategic planning for a local religious organization in London. His broad experience has sharpened his analytical thinking and leadership abilities, complemented by excellent communication and a strong client-centric approach. With a diverse skill set and cross-industry insights, Kamlesh brings a unique and valuable perspective to any venture or team he is a part of.
BUSINESS ADVISOR
Amit Chavan
Business Advisor
Amit is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in top-tier IT consulting firms, including Deloitte, Capgemini, Atos, TCS, Accenture, and Barclays Bank. He has built strong client relationships and excelled in customer success and relationship management throughout his career.
Currently focused on business development, Amit supports sales and pre-sales teams while ensuring smooth service delivery across various industries such as manufacturing, retail, BFSI, healthcare, hi-tech, and the public sector. He leads end-to-end pre-sales efforts for deals ranging from $5 million to $1 billion in value, crafting strategic solutions tailored to client needs.
His domain expertise spans retail, insurance, consumer goods, manufacturing, and technology. Amit is driven by entrepreneurship, customer obsession, and client-centric strategies. With a strong track record in managing complex engagements and delivering measurable value, he is a trusted leader who consistently drives business growth and operational excellence across global markets.
OUR ADVISORY BOARD
Chris Conner
Franchising
Chris Conner is a highly respected figure in the franchising industry, with over two decades of experience as a franchise consultant. He began his career in 2001 with a Chicago-based firm, where he contributed to the success of prominent brands such as Jimmy John’s, European Wax Center, and Smash Burger.
In 2009, Chris founded Franchise Marketing Systems (FMS) in Atlanta, Georgia, with a mission to offer full-service franchise development, including strategic planning, legal documentation, and franchise marketing support. Under his leadership, FMS has helped launch and grow over 750 franchise brands across various sectors.
Notable clients include Anytime Fitness, Baxter Healthcare, Blimpie, Hungry Howie’s Pizza, Restoration 1, Smash My Trash, and Two Men and a Truck. Collectively, these brands have expanded to more than 9,700 franchise territories. Chris’s impact and legacy in franchising are marked by his strategic insight, industry knowledge, and unwavering commitment to brand growth and success.
Xavier Egan
Strategy
Xavier Egan is an accomplished American investor and entrepreneur with over 20 years of leadership experience in Private Equity, Mergers & Acquisitions, Commercial Real Estate (CRE), and technology. Renowned for transforming complex business challenges into strategic solutions, Xavier has overseen more than $5 billion in transactions, leveraging his expertise in finance, accounting, and strategic leadership to drive sustainable growth and enterprise value.
His reputation as a trusted advisor in high-stakes corporate environments stems from his deep understanding of strategic expansion and operational excellence. Beyond the boardroom, Xavier is also passionate about civic responsibility. He actively contributes to community development as a member of the Arlington Mayor’s Advisory Council and supports various philanthropic initiatives.
Combining business acumen with a commitment to service, Xavier continues to impact both the corporate and local communities, embodying leadership that is not only results-driven but also socially conscious and community-focused.
Sam Udani
Investment Based Migration USA
Sam Udani has dedicated over 30 years to the U.S. immigration community, actively shaping immigration policy and advocating for progressive reform since the era of ACWIA and AC21/ACTA. With deep expertise across all aspects of U.S. immigration, he has consistently championed informed and forward-thinking immigration laws.
As the Publisher and CEO of ILW.COM and Immigration Daily for over two decades, Mr. Udani oversees one of the most comprehensive immigration law platforms in the country. The site, featuring over 50,000 pages of free legal content, attracts 250,000 monthly visitors. Under his leadership, ILW has organized more than 600 CLE seminars, published over 24 immigration law books, and hosted hundreds of global immigration events.
Beyond publishing, Mr. Udani serves on the Board of Directors of USCRI, the nation’s oldest and largest immigration-focused nonprofit. He continues to influence both public discourse and legal practice from his base in New York City.
Eric Hardgrave
VC USA
Eric is a seasoned venture capitalist with over 25 years of experience in providing debt and convertible debt financing to high-tech companies across Silicon Valley and the U.S. He is the co-founder of Acuity Ventures III, L.P., Acuity Ventures II, LLC, and Acuity Ventures, LLC, and is currently in the process of launching Second Street Capital. The majority of investments under the Acuity Funds focus on web-based software ventures.
Previously, Eric co-founded Sand Hill Capital, LLC, a venture fund that specialized in providing debt facilities to later-stage, emerging growth companies. His financial career began in commercial banking with Union Bank, followed by senior roles at Silicon Valley Bank and the venture capital division of General Bank.
Eric holds a BA in Economics from Stanford University, where he earned All-American honors in baseball and later played professionally. His unique blend of finance expertise and athletic discipline defines his approach to leadership and investing.