Leadership team
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Donald Hicks
CEO & Chairman
Donald Hicks is a fintech and operations architect recognized for transforming the post sales consumer experience at the world’s most influential companies. As CEO and Chairman of Novea Inc., he leads strategic acceleration and AI digital transformation to redefine customer trust and scale. Donald previously held senior leadership roles at Microsoft, Airbnb, Twitter, Meta, Google, and Amazon, and currently serves as COO for the Office of the General Counsel at Stanford University.
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James Cerna
Operating CFO
James Cerna brings over 30 years of experience with public companies, including 24 years in executive leadership roles. He most recently served as Head of Capital Markets and CFO at Loop Media Inc., and previously held CEO and CFO positions at FogChain Inc. and Sauce Labs Inc.
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William McIntyre
COO & CTO
William McIntyre brings a distinguished record of innovation and success in launching consumer products and services for leading global brands, including Motorola, Google, Meta and United Airlines. His expertise spans consumer experience, warranty products and services, digital transformation, and business strategy. He is recognized for building global capabilities, leading enterprise implementations, developing distribution channels, and overseeing both pre-sales and post-sales operations.
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Paul DiFrancesco
President
Paul DiFrancesco is a 25-year Wall Street veteran with extensive experience in investment banking and market making on NASDAQ. He has participated in over 100 IPOs, shaping their strategies and capitalization plans, and has successfully founded and exited two multi-million-dollar businesses.
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Carlos Arreola
VP Business Development, Co-Founder, Board Member
Carlos Arreola brings over 20 years of experience in consumer electronics, including roles at GE and RCA. As Co-Founder and Business Development Director at Novea Inc., he leads efforts to expand into new niche markets and drive growth opportunities. Carlos also founded General Electronics, a company providing specialized service for consumer electronics, reflecting his entrepreneurial spirit and deep industry expertise.
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Stephen Ross
Co-Founder, Board Member
Stephen Ross is a seasoned entrepreneur with a proven track record of building and leading successful businesses. With a strong background in computer hardware and software, he combines technical expertise with a deep commitment to delivering exceptional customer experience. As the founder of Novea Inc., Stephen brings a visionary approach to innovation and growth, leveraging his entrepreneurial drive and business leadership to guide the company’s strategy and success.
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Jermaine McDonald
VP Risk Management, Co-founder, Board Member
Jermaine McDonald has over 20 years of experience in financial services and insurance. Jermaine’s vision is to transform the warranty industry with smarter, technology-driven, customer-first solutions.Prior to joining Novea Inc., he served as National Risk Manager for AmTrust North America’s Specialty Risk Division, overseeing financial performance, regulatory compliance, and reporting for all U.S. warranty and specialty risk programs. -

Roger Schlegel
VP Sales
With nearly 30 years in the mobile technology industry, Roger Schlegel has led major initiatives at Servify and AmTrust, including the launch of Servify Care and AmTrust Mobile Solutions. As Chief Sales Officer, he drives sales strategy and builds key partnerships to fuel growth.
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John McDermott
Investor Relations
John McDermott has over 20 years of experience in the securities industry with a focus on corporate finance, IPOs, and secondary transactions. He has operated multiple companies and holds an MA in Public Administration and a BA in Political Science.
Advisory Board
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Richard Blake
Richard Blake brings over 30 years of experience in technology, IT leadership, and program management. He has held key roles including Program Manager at IBM’s GWAC Center of Excellence, CIO at eCend Managed Systems, and CTO at ProKennex Industries. Richard’s expertise spans technology strategy, complex project execution, and innovation, making him a trusted advisor in driving operational excellence and growth.
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Paul Brahe
Paul Brahe brings over 35 years of experience in technology and financial sectors, with a strong track record of founding and leading technology, software, and investment companies. He has extensive board experience, including Parsley360 and formerly Komag Inc. (NASDAQ: KOMG), and has helped guide companies through growth, innovation, and successful exits. Paul’s expertise spans software development, systems design, network security, and strategic investment. He holds a degree in Economics from Stanford University.
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Ken Adler
Ken Adler brings 45 years of experience leading and structuring businesses across diverse industries, including technology, construction, and finance. He is Chairman of Genesis Glass & Mirror, Inc., CEO of 316 Technology Solutions, LLC, and manages a multi-million-dollar portfolio investing in startups and real estate. Ken has successfully navigated multiple market downturns, guided companies through exits, and advises on strategic growth and operations.
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Jim Foley
Jim Foley is the founder of Vertex Leadership Group, helping businesses implement best-in-class warranty programs. He specializes in program design, pricing, and execution, covering products from consumer electronics to power equipment and recreational vehicles. Jim holds a B.S. in Marketing from the University of Maine.