The Smart Business Dealmakers Dealmaker of the Year Awards recognize exceptional individuals who are shaping the landscape of business and innovation in Central Ohio.
In addition, The Columbus Dealmakers Hall of Fame recognized a class of dealmakers that has made an often-groundbreaking impact on their organizations, industries and the region over the course of decades in business.
We celebrated the accomplishments of the 2024 class of winners September 19 at the Columbus Smart Business Dealmakers Conference. Together, they provide a strong picture of the Central Ohio business community.
Dealmaker Of The Year Honorees
Brett Buchanan is the CEO of Pathfinder Product Labs, a business management consulting firm. The company was sold to ESOP Test Double last year, marking a strategic exit. Pathfinder Product Labs continues to provide consulting services, helping businesses navigate complex challenges and achieve sustainable growth. Under Buchanan's leadership, the firm gained recognition for its innovative approaches and client-focused strategies.
Luke Buchanan is the Founder and CEO of Redi Health, a platform empowering patients to take control of their health journey. Under Buchanan’s leadership, the company raised $14 million in Series B funding in February 2024, bringing total capital to $19.1 million since 2021. Redi Health continues to innovate patient engagement and healthcare management, helping individuals actively manage their medical conditions and treatments.
Brian Graham and Will Zell lead AssetWatch, Inc., a company specializing in end-to-end condition monitoring solutions for global manufacturers, helping prevent unplanned downtime. In July 2024, AssetWatch raised $40 million in Series B funding, led by Wellington Management, with all Series A investors and Touchdown Ventures participating. The funds will drive business scaling and continued innovation, offering new value to customers in a challenging capital environment.
Joe Henderson serves as Sr. Vice President at Advantage Capital, a more than $4 billion impact investment manager with $60 million invested in Ohio businesses. He played a pivotal role in Advantage’s investment in Athens-based Global Cooling Inc., which supported global vaccine distribution during COVID-19. Advantage Capital has exited the investment after the company’s sale to BioLife Solutions. Henderson has also overseen investments in 14 other Ohio businesses, creating jobs and supporting local economies.
Catherine Lang-Cline is the CEO and founder of Portfolio Creative, an award-winning recruiting and staffing firm that specializes in connecting creative, marketing, and digital talent with leading companies. With expertise spanning consumer products, financial services and technology, she is known for her innovative leadership and design thinking. Portfolio Creative was recently acquired by Stafford Technology, another Columbus-based firm, further enhancing its capabilities and reach. Portfolio Creative continues to set industry standards for matching top talent with key roles across various sectors.
Greg Lehman is the Founder and COO of Watershed Distillery, a company known for producing exceptional spirits. On July 31, 2023, Watershed Distillery was acquired by Marussia Beverages USA. This acquisition provides Marussia Beverages an opportunity to expand its footprint in Central Ohio and throughout the country. Greg is focused on ensuring Watershed maintains its commitment to quality and innovation, as the company continues to grow.
David Richards is the CEO of Clarametyx Biosciences, which develops immune-facilitated biologic therapies to combat life-threatening infections. In January 2024, the company raised $33 million in Series A funding, led by Ohio Innovation Fund, with participation from Nationwide Children’s Hospital, JobsOhio Growth Capital and Rev1 Ventures. This funding will accelerate the development of breakthrough therapies aimed at improving outcomes for patients facing severe infections.
Dealmakers Hall of Fame
Jordan Hansell is the CEO and Founder of Tradepost, LLC, an investment platform providing growth capital to mid-market firms with proven growth trajectories. Focused on businesses with defensible market positions and strong management teams, Tradepost invests in firms with $1 million to $20 million in EBITDA. Before Tradepost, Jordan was the President of Rockbridge, a private equity firm with nearly $3 billion in assets under management. He also served as Chairman and CEO of NetJets, where he led the company through its most profitable years and expanded its operations globally. In addition to his leadership at Tradepost, Jordan is the Executive Chairman of Consolidated Metals and GO Companies, as well as a board member of Feazel Roofing. He previously chaired Mount Carmel Health System’s board and served as a trustee at Simpson College for 17 years.
Andrew Panos is the founder of Equiti. His innovative leadership and creative sales initiatives fueled the rapid growth of Equiti's Martti into the more than 2,000 hospitals and health care facilities it serves today. When his brother was tragically injured while on vacation abroad, Andy was inspired to help the millions of patients in the U.S. who face language barriers in health care. His experience in operations, business development and national marketing strategy stems from serving as partner/owner of a creative marketing firm. His mission-driven approach continues to guide the company’s expansion, helping to create more inclusive and accessible healthcare environments.
Leo Ruberto, CEO and owner of Feazel Roofing, entered the roofing industry after his service in the United States Marine Corps. With over 15 years of experience, Leo has grown Feazel into a leader in residential, commercial and multi-family building exteriors. His dedication to high-quality work and ethical business practices has fueled Feazel's expansion. Under his leadership, the company has also committed to sustainability through initiatives like its shingle recycling program, which converts used roofing materials into asphalt for new roads. Leo’s passion for giving back extends beyond sustainability; he believes in making a difference in people’s lives through his work. Feazel's efforts to reduce environmental impact align with Leo’s vision for the future of the roofing industry.
Dwight Smith is the founder and former CEO of Sophisticated Systems, an information technology consulting company he led for over 30 years before stepping down in February 2023. With over four decades of IT and software industry experience, Dwight began his career at IBM before founding Sophisticated Systems in 1990. He has also served on the boards of prominent organizations such as Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Rocky Brands and the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland. Beyond his corporate achievements, Dwight is a recognized leader in the community, serving on numerous public, private and nonprofit boards. He continues to influence the tech industry and the Columbus region through his extensive board involvement and strategic vision.
Jeff Sopp is the CEO of Kensington Hill Partners, where he consults on M&A strategies, growth initiatives, and executive leadership for a range of companies. Jeff’s client-centric approach ensures that each business he advises receives customized solutions for maximum return on investment. With extensive experience working with Fortune 1,000 clients, Jeff specializes in guiding businesses through mergers, acquisitions and board governance. Throughout his career, Jeff has served on multiple boards, gaining expertise across industries such as technology, retail, finance and real estate. His strategic insights and deep industry knowledge continue to help organizations achieve sustainable growth and success.
Tom Walker is the founding CEO and President of Rev1 Ventures, Inc. in Columbus, OH. With a career spanning nearly 30 years in innovation and venture capital, Tom has broad expertise in supporting early-stage entrepreneurs in the successful start and scaleup of new companies. He is a leader in driving innovation within large corporations, research institutions and communities, especially where it aims to better lives through entrepreneurship. Tom has formed and managed multiple venture capital funds that have achieved or maintained top quartile performance and has participated in more than 300 investments. Portfolio companies have generated more than $7 billion in successful exits. His leadership at Rev1 has earned the firm recognition as the Most Active VC in the Great Lakes region, according to PitchBook.
