Succession Planning: Preparing the Next Generation and Your Exit Strategy

Renee Russo

Certified Exit Strategist - Rise Up Business Coaching

Renee Russo is a high-energy change-maker obsessed with setting business owners free.  

 As a Expert EOS Implementer®, Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA), and life coach, Renee has curated a unique blend of proven systems and high impact coaching solutions to help set business owners free. 

  • Renee and her team uniquely integrate the right systems and coaching at each stage of the entrepreneurial journey to help owners gain control of their business, unlock their wealth, and realize their freedom.

    Renowned for her sky-high energy, compassionate heart, and relentless solution focus, Renee will equip you with the tools and strategies you need to get what you want in business and in life.

Ashley Gidel

Ashley Gidel's journey in the construction industry is a testament to the power of passion and family ties. Starting her career in medical sales, Ashley made a pivotal decision in 2007 to join Gidel & Kocal Construction on a part-time basis. Quickly captivated by the dynamic world of construction and the opportunity to work alongside her family, Ashley transitioned to a full-time role as a Project Engineer in 2015, demonstrating remarkable dedication and skill. By 2018, she had ascended to the position of Project Manager, where she adeptly oversaw multiple subcontractors, collaborating closely with her team, project engineers, and site superintendents.

President - Gidel & Kocal Construction

  • Throughout her tenure at Gidel & Kocal, Ashley has left an indelible mark on a diverse array of projects spanning office spaces, retail, medical facilities, and life science laboratories. Her affinity for the intricacies of high-rise tenant improvements and market-ready projects speaks to her keen understanding of the unique challenges posed by these buildings.

    In 2021, Ashley assumed the role of President, spearheading all facets of project management, company marketing, and overall business operations. Her unwavering commitment to delivering personalized attention to clients and projects alike has been instrumental in ensuring success at every stage. Recognized as a Top Young Leader by the Silicon Valley Business Journal's esteemed 40 Under 40 class of 2022, Ashley continues to push boundaries in both the Bay Area and the construction industry at large.

    Under Ashley's leadership, Gidel & Kocal Construction has flourished, earning acclaim as a premier workplace. The company's commitment to fostering a vibrant and supportive environment has been recognized by the Silicon Valley Business Journal and San Francisco Business Times, naming it the Best Place to Work in the Bay Area for both 2023 and 2024.

    Beyond her professional achievements, Ashley's life is marked by her vibrant personality and diverse interests. A proud member of Kappa Kappa Gamma, she remains actively involved in her alumni association. Her love for animals is evident in her cherished companions, Maddie and Covie, two adorable Morkie dogs who accompany her to work most days. An adventurous spirit, Ashley travels the world, recently embarking on a journey to Antarctica to fulfill her lifelong dream of encountering penguins in the wild.

    For Ashley, the essence of fulfillment lies in the intersection of passion, purpose, and family. At Gidel & Kocal Construction, she finds not only a rewarding career but also a second home among colleagues who share her vision and values.”

Jean Bjork

Owner/CEO - Bjork Construction Company, Inc.

Jean Bjork is Owner and CEO of Bjork Construction Company in the San Francisco Bay Area. A professional with over 35+ years of construction experience, Jean’s initial foray into the trades was as a welder. In 1988, Jean co-founded Bjork Construction while also raising a family, working full-time and earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

  • Initially, Bjork Construction established itself as a premier custom home builder and built many large estates in the San Francisco Bay Area. In 2006 Bjork Construction became a WBENC certified woman owned company, and in 2011 signed with the Northern California Carpenter’s Union. As Bjork Construction has evolved and grown, it is now recognized as a successful commercial builder to many Fortune 500 Companies and other influential clients.

    Bjork Construction continues to distinguish itself as a rising star. Over the past 7 years, Bjork Construction has placed consecutively on the SF Biz Times’ list of Top 100 Women-Owned Businesses in the Bay Area. In 2020, Bjork Construction was the recipient of the WBEC Pacific’s WBE Excellence in Growth Award, and Jean was inducted into the Alameda County 2020 Women’s Hall of Fame.

    Jean is an advocate for entrepreneurs, a champion of women in business and has been recognized nationally for excellence in business and for her commitment to diversity & inclusion in the workplace and community. Jean is an active participant in college and industry mentorship programs, volunteer work and enjoys organizing and participating in industry educational and outreach opportunities.

    Jean’s advice to others?

    “Be persistent. Pursue your passion. Know your worth, and don’t sell yourself or your product short. Lead with equality and inclusiveness. Strive to be the best, and always believe that you can improve.”

Andy Roberson

Wealth Management Advisor - WestPac Wealth Partners

I help families and private business owners make smart decisions to maintain their financial independence and dignity.

Andy is a financial advisor who enjoys working with private business owners and successful individuals by coming up with creative ideas to help them reach their goals and then working with their team of advisors to implement these solutions to minimize the time spent for the client and help maximize the ROI.

  • Andy’s areas of focus include:

    • Comprehensive Financial Planning

    • Family Business Succession

    • Wealth Management

    • Life Insurance

    • Disability and Long Term Care Insurance

    • Key Man & Executive Benefits Carve Out

    • Retirement Income Planning

    • Estate Planning

    He believes in objectivity and providing the appropriate solution for his clients as he operates in an “open architecture” firm where there are no proprietary requirements.

    Andy earned his Bachelors of Commerce in Finance at Santa Clara University. He has earned the Certified Financial Planner designation at American College. Andy also served as a past President of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors – San Francisco Peninsula chapter.

    Andy is an avid SF Giants and 49ers fan and also enjoys hiking, trail running, golf, theater and travel. Andy lives in Walnut Creek along with his wife Sandy, twin daughters Aria and Siena, and son Jake.

Moderator: Yolanda Baber

Vice President of Business Development - JGM

As the Vice President of Business Development at JGM, a leading architectural services firm in Southern California, Yolanda Baber leverages her 25+ years of experience and expertise in the industry to generate over two billion in revenue. She oversees all aspects of business development, client engagement, marketing communications, and strategic partnerships for the firm, which serves a diverse range of sectors, including transportation, aviation, infrastructure, energy, healthcare, and education.

  • Yolanda is also a transformational leader and a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the industry. She currently serves as the President of SMPS LA, a professional organization that promotes excellence in marketing and business development for the A/E/C industry. She is also a President of NAWIC LA, a national association that supports and empowers women in construction, and ASCE San Bernardino Riverside, a civil engineering society that advances the profession and the community. Additionally, she is a member of the CMAA SoCal DEIB committee, which fosters a culture of DEI in the construction management industry. Yolanda's mission is to create positive change and impact through her work and involvement in the industry and the community.