Board of Directors

---

BARR Financial Services

A 2023 Orlando Business Journal "40 under 40" honoree.

Michael’s passion for helping families achieve financial security began in the sixth grade when his father decided to share his investment portfolio with young Michael. It sparked a strong interest for finance and the stock market that endures to this day. Michael remembers coming home from school every day to see how their favorite stocks had performed. After graduating from New Smyrna Beach High School as Valedictorian of his class and the President of Key Club, he set his focus on specializing in Finance.

Michael went on to Stetson University where he participated in both the Honors Program and the Roland George Investment Program. There he studied portfolio management and pursued his thirst for learning everything he could about the world of finance. Prior to joining BARR Financial Services, Michael helped manage a $9 billion portfolio for some of the largest institutions in the Southeast, including the City of Miami, the Orlando International Airport, Brevard County, Palm Beach County Schools and Adventist Hospital.

A love of family and a desire to make the world a better place is a big part of Michael’s mindset every day. In 2017, after finding out that Florida is the third worst state in the country for sex and labor trafficking, Michael started a soap company with a brand called Love Suds. The mission is to spread awareness and raise money for human trafficking victims in the Central Florida area. Michael is also on the Board of Directors for Guys With Ties, a nonprofit group that fund raises for local charities in the Orlando community through various fun and unique events.

Understanding one of the biggest stresses a family can face is a lack of financial security, Michael saw BARR Financial Services’ mission to help families live fulfilled, financially secure lives to be in perfect alignment with his own mission–adding light to the world.

Outside of the office, you can find Michael traveling in search of an outdoor adventure (preferably involving a culinary adventure, too!) or playing a relaxing round of golf.

Tech Collaboration Mgr. - Lockheed Martin

As a seasoned Aerospace & Defense Systems Engineer with a decade of experience, I bring a wealth of technical knowledge and expertise to the table. With a current strong focus on technology strategy, I am dedicated to developing cross-company collaboration projects that drive meaningful impact and mutual value.   My ability to effectively communicate, connect, and collaborate across large organizations has been a key factor in my success, and I am dedicated to seeking out new challenges and opportunities that expand my skillset. My eagerness to jump in and attack new things, combined with my ability to plan and execute on ideas has allowed me to make valuable contributions to a wide range of projects and roles over my career.  Whether working on complex systems architectures, leading technology development efforts, or implementing strategic initiatives, I am always striving to drive positive change and deliver exceptional results. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a valuable asset to any organizations looking to achieve its goals in the rapidly evolving aerospace and defense industry. 

AI/ML Engineer - Onebrief Inc.

Ben is a dynamic professional. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida in 2017 and a Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Engineering from Purdue University in 2022. Ben is also a graduate of the rigorous and exclusive Engineering Leadership Development Program (ELDP) at Lockheed Martin. With a strong technical foundation, Ben has navigated various roles, in Systems Engineering, Test Engineering, AI/ML and technical leadership. He currently serves as an individual contributor in AI/ML at Onebrief Inc. where he leverages the power of LLMs and Vector Databases to bring more functionality to the product. Beyond his technical prowess, Ben is deeply committed to philanthropy, and community service. Ben's dedication to giving back underscores his passion for both innovation and service.

Nonprofit Insurance Services

Insurance placement & Risk Management Specialist for niche industry groups across the United States. Coverages include Property & Casualty and Benefits.

Exclusively focused groups include: Non-Profit/Social Service Organizations, Public Entity/Government Municipalities, School Boards, Auto Dealerships, Professional Employer Organizations (PEO's), and Temp Staffing Agencies.

"A wise man can learn more from a foolish question than a fool can learn from a wise answer." 

Director, Executive Recruiting at TruVirtue

One of Dereck’s life purposes if the help others. Helping people find their career is one of the best ways he knows how. 

Upon graduating from Stetson University with a bachelor’s degree in communications and media studies, Dereck worked for one of the largest staffing agencies as a recruiter known as Robert Half for just over a year. After leaving Robert Half he then worked for an Insurance Sales agency known as HPOne as a corporate recruiter. He was able to help open what would be the companies’ largest site in 2018. Dereck worked for HPOne for just under 3 years and then began his career as an entrepreneur. In 2021 Dereck started his Staffing Agency named TruVirtue which specializes in the Insurtech and healthcare industries. In just the 3 short years TruVirtue has been able to help over 1000 people find their new career. Dereck enjoys being able to help others which is why he decided Guys with Ties would be the best organization to continue to help people within the Orlando Community.

President, Emprise Partners

Ednel Saint Jean is a dynamic sales leader with over two decades of experience. He is the President of Emprise Partners, a prime contractor that collaborates with various government clients, specializing in facilities support and management services. Ednel excels in leading teams, forging strategic partnerships, and driving business growth. Passionate about leadership and personal development, he actively supports individuals in achieving transformation. As a driven entrepreneur and sales executive, he leverages his expertise in account management, sales strategy, and business development to foster success within his organization and beyond.