Forum@535

An invitation-only gathering for founders, CEOs, and business owners leading companies generating $5M+ in annual revenue.

We are entering an era where intelligence is no longer scarce. AI can generate ideas, strategies, and outputs at scale.

The question is no longer access to intelligence. It’s what creates advantage. The Forum@535 is built around that shift. Designed as a closed-door environment, it brings together a select group of founders and executives to engage in candid, experience-driven conversations on building, scaling, and leading organizations.

The Forum explores how businesses create meaning, generate momentum, and translate both into sustained growth.

Be Part of the Conversation at Our Next Event

The Next Chapter

Exploring what comes next for business leaders, organizations, and industries.

Every successful company reaches a moment when the old playbook is no longer enough. New technologies emerge, markets evolve, customer expectations shift, and leadership teams are challenged to determine what comes next.

Forum@535 brings together founders, CEOs, entrepreneurs, and executive leaders for an afternoon of candid conversations about navigating change, identifying opportunity, and building the next chapter of their organizations. Through keynote presentations, executive panels, and peer-to-peer networking, attendees will gain practical insights into leadership, innovation, market positioning, talent, and long-term value creation.

Designed for decision-makers, this event explores how today’s leaders prepare their businesses for tomorrow’s opportunities.

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Welcome Speakers

Our roster of leaders is growing. More speakers to be revealed soon.

Brendan Theroux

Vice President, KeyBank

Through KeyBank, Brendan partners with manufacturers, distributors, retailers, contractors, and professional service firms throughout the Northeast. Focused on helping middle market businesses navigate growth through financial strategies supporting working capital, capital investments, and acquisitions. Serving as MC for Forum@535, guiding conversations centered on leadership, organizational growth, and the realities of scaling modern businesses.

Andrew Martelli

Director of Economic Development & Grants, Town of Cheshire

Andrew Martelli serves as the Director of Economic Development & Grants for the Town of Cheshire, where he works to strengthen the local business community through strategic partnerships, economic development initiatives, and public funding opportunities. Collaborating with businesses, community organizations, and municipal leaders, Andrew focuses on creating an environment that supports investment, innovation, and long-term economic vitality for the region.

Yetta Augur

President, Cheshire-Prospect Regional Chamber Of Commerce

Yetta Auger is President of the Cheshire-Prospect Regional Chamber of Commerce, where she champions the success of local businesses by fostering collaboration, networking, and community engagement. Through her leadership, the Chamber connects entrepreneurs, business owners, and civic leaders while promoting economic growth and strengthening Cheshire's vibrant business community.

Keynotes

Building a Business Worth Buying

Selling a business begins years earlier through the decisions leaders make every day. Join Neill Sachdev and Jeffrey Glick for a behind-the-scenes look at how buyers evaluate companies, what due diligence uncovers, and how business owners can strengthen value long before a transaction is on the table. Whether you’re planning an exit, pursuing investment, or focused on sustainable growth, this session offers practical insights into building a business that’s prepared for whatever comes next.

Neill Sachdev

Private Client Advisor, Senior Vice President, Bank of America

Neill Sachdev is a Senior Vice President and Private Client Advisor at Bank of America, where he advises business owners, entrepreneurs, and families on complex financial strategies, business succession, and long-term wealth planning. With a relationship-driven approach, Neill helps clients align their personal financial goals with the future of their businesses. His perspective combines strategic financial planning with practical experience supporting leaders through pivotal business and life transitions.

Jeffrey Glick

Head of U.S. Operations, Outsourced CFO

Jeffrey Glick leads U.S. Operations at Outsourced CFO, partnering with entrepreneurs and executive teams to build stronger financial foundations for growing businesses. His work focuses on transforming finance into a strategic function through improved planning, financial visibility, and scalable operational systems. Jeffrey brings practical insight into how financial discipline, informed decision-making, and operational excellence position organizations for sustainable growth and long-term success.

Michael Carter

Founder & Managing Partner, Carter Morse & Goodrich

Michael Carter is Founder and Managing Partner of Carter Morse & Goodrich, where he advises business owners and executive teams on mergers and acquisitions, capital formation, and long-term strategic growth. Drawing on experience as an entrepreneur, commercial lender, investment banker, corporate director, and business advisor, Michael has guided more than 100 M&A and financing transactions across a wide range of industries. His perspective offers business leaders practical insight into creating enterprise value, preparing for major transitions, and making the strategic decisions that strengthen organizations for the future.

David Pyne

Chief Financial Officer, Haynes Construction Company

David Pyne is Chief Financial Officer of Haynes Construction, where he provides strategic financial leadership for one of Connecticut's premier commercial construction firms. Working closely with executive leadership, David helps guide the company's financial strategy, capital planning, operational performance, and long-term growth while supporting complex projects across a diverse portfolio of industries. His perspective combines financial discipline with practical business insight, offering valuable lessons on managing growth, navigating risk, and building organizations that are financially resilient and positioned for long-term success.

Inside the Journey: Gordon Hay, ALINE Systems

A brief conversation highlighting the entrepreneurial journey behind one of today’s most innovative companies—exploring the vision, challenges, and defining moments that shaped the business.

Gordon Hay

Co-Founder, ALINE Systems

Gordon Hay is Co-Founder of ALINE Systems, an innovative company recognized for developing performance orthotics designed to improve alignment, comfort, and movement across a variety of sports and activities. Since co-founding the company in 2005, Gordon has helped grow ALINE by combining biomechanics, product innovation, and entrepreneurial vision to create solutions trusted by athletes and outdoor enthusiasts around the world.

Keynote Panel: From Vision to Value

Every successful business begins with an idea—but lasting success comes from the decisions that follow. Join three accomplished entrepreneurs as they discuss the leadership philosophies, strategic choices, and lessons learned while building organizations that have challenged industries and created meaningful impact. Moderated by Grant Flannery, this conversation offers practical insights for leaders navigating growth, innovation, and change.