The 2025 OC Executive Forum & Leadership Awards proudly celebrate this year’s distinguished honorees, visionary leaders who have set the standard for excellence across Orange County. Representing industries from finance and technology to marketing, HR and legal counsel, these executives have been recognized for their recent accomplishments, career-long leadership and lasting community impact. Each honoree exemplifies purposeful leadership, driving innovation and meaningful change while inspiring others across the region.
FOUNDER
John Kao, founder and CEO of Alignment Health, has dedicated more than 30 years to transforming healthcare with a mission to put seniors first. Since launching Alignment in Orange County over a decade ago, he and his team have built one of the nation’s fastest-growing Medicare Advantage companies, now serving more than 209,000 seniors across five states, with the majority in California.
Since leading Alignment’s IPO on NASDAQ in March 2021, Kao has driven consistent growth across key performance measures, including membership, revenue, adjusted gross profit and adjusted EBITDA. In 2024, Alignment reported $2.70 billion in total revenue, up 48.3% year-over-year, and achieved its first $2-billion revenue milestone. For Q4 2024, revenue reached $701.2 million, a 50.7% increase over the prior year. Membership also surged, with 35% growth in January 2025 following a record 44% increase the previous year.
Alignment has paired this growth with industry-leading quality ratings. For 2025, more than 98% of its members are in Medicare Advantage plans rated 4 stars or higher by CMS. Its North Carolina and Nevada HMO contracts retained a 5-star rating for the third consecutive year, one of only nine nationwide to achieve this distinction. In California, its PPO plan earned 4.5 stars, and its HMO plan maintained at least 4 stars for eight consecutive years. Alignment was also recognized by Newsweek in 2024 as one of the World’s Most Trustworthy Companies.
Guided by values of putting seniors first, supporting physicians, leveraging technology and leading with a serving heart, Kao has created a culture rooted in compassion and accountability. Named to Modern Healthcare’s 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare in 2023, he continues to share his expertise at leading industry forums and through media outlets. A graduate of Santa Clara University and UCLA Anderson, he serves on UCLA Anderson’s Board of Advisors.
John KAO
Alignment Health
Founder
CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER
Ikram GUERD
Aspivix
Chief Marketing Officer - General Manager U.S.
With more than 20 years of international experience in healthcare, Ikram Guerd has built a distinguished career at the intersection of marketing, innovation and leadership. Her journey spans global corporations, such as Procter & Gamble and Danaher Corporation, as well as entrepreneurial ventures in both Europe and the United States. Throughout, she has demonstrated a consistent ability to drive growth, manage product lifecycles and craft business strategies that not only deliver results but also shape organizational culture.
Today, Guerd serves as chief marketing officer and general manager U.S. at Aspivix Corporation, where she is redefining women’s health by spearheading strategies to raise awareness around innovative solutions that reduce pain in gynecological care. Her leadership has positioned Aspivix as a disruptive force in a field long overlooked in terms of research, innovation and funding.
Over the past two years, her accomplishments have been transformative. She established Aspivix’s U.S. C-Corporation in California, executed a groundbreaking growth marketing campaign that achieved more than 3.3 million views on TikTok and initiated the first U.S. clinical study for Carevix, an innovation designed to reduce pain during transcervical procedures. Her work has garnered widespread recognition, with international features in The New York Times, NBC News, CBS Mornings, Forbes, Women’s Health Magazine and FemTech Insider. In 2025, she won the Survivor Pitch competition at O.C. Innovation Week in Irvine, underscoring her role as a trailblazer in healthcare innovation.
Beyond her corporate achievements, Guerd is committed to mentorship and advocacy. She serves as a board member for Inspiring Girls USA, helping to challenge stereotypes for young women, and previously held a communications board role with Women in Healthcare. A graduate of ISG Paris and Harvard HBX Finance, Guerd continues to inspire future leaders by breaking barriers, advancing equity and setting new standards in women’s health.
HEAD OF HUMAN RESOURCES
With 18 years of experience in human resources, Christine Doane has established herself as a transformative leader in talent strategy, organizational development and culture building. As vice president of global human resources at Genea Energy Partners, Inc., she has been instrumental in scaling the company from 45 to 155 employees in just four years – a 244% increase – and expanding its global footprint with the launch of Genea’s first international office in Ahmedabad, India, now home to over 70 professionals.
Doane’s leadership philosophy extends beyond people management; she is a strategic partner to the business, aligning HR initiatives with company objectives to fuel sustainable growth. Collaborating closely with the executive team, she provides insights that strengthen leadership development, employee engagement and organizational culture. Her expertise has positioned her as a thought leader and trusted advisor within both Genea and the broader HR community.
Among her most impactful achievements, Doane transformed Genea’s talent acquisition and onboarding processes, implementing structured 30-60-90 day plans and engagement check-ins that earned an outstanding Net Promoter Score of 71 from new hires. She also spearheaded a companywide knowledge-sharing initiative, resulting in 660 internal documentation resources and 44 customized training courses. This program elevated employee satisfaction with training by 36% in its first year, significantly improving efficiency and fostering professional growth.
As a culture champion, Doane has helped Genea earn Orange County’s Top Workplace award for four consecutive years (2021-2024). Under her leadership, voluntary employee turnover dropped by 87.5%, from 40% to just 3%, underscoring her ability to create an environment where employees feel valued, supported and motivated to grow.
A graduate of CSUF, SDSU, and Cornell University, Doane also serves on the Cornell ILR School EMHRM Alumni Steering Committee Board. Her innovative strategies and unwavering commitment to people and culture have made Genea a globally recognized employer of choice.
Christine DOANE
Genea Energy Partners, Inc.
VP, Global Human Resources
CHIEF INFORMATION OR TECHNOLOGY OFFICER
Adam GOLD
Rady Children’s Health
Associate Chief Information Officer and Chief Technology Officer
Adam Gold is a visionary technology executive with more than 30 years of experience driving digital transformation in healthcare. Currently serving as associate chief information officer and chief technology officer at Rady Children’s Health (Children’s Hospital of Orange County – CHOC), he has redefined how pediatric care integrates with technology, blending innovation with compassion to improve outcomes for patients, families and communities.
Gold’s career spans leadership roles at UC Irvine Health, UC San Diego Health and CHOC, where he has consistently championed large-scale infrastructure modernization and digital health innovation. At CHOC, he leads a team of more than 100 professionals and has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives, including the launch of a mobile app and cloud-based call center platform, both of which transformed patient engagement and access. He also oversees CHOC’s Salesforce Health Cloud rollout, enabling more personalized, data-driven care delivery.
His strategic oversight extends to enterprisewide RPA automation and DevOps, streamlining operations and boosting efficiency. Among his most unique contributions is the Tech Tuesday program, which engages pediatric patients in hands-on projects, like robotics and LED circuits, combining therapeutic play with STEM learning. Additionally, his leadership in migrating CHOC to a colocation data center has dramatically improved reliability and reduced operational costs.
Beyond organizational impact, Gold plays an active role in shaping the healthcare IT landscape. He is deeply involved in community service, mentoring youth through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County, volunteering with Read to a Child L.A. and supporting disability advocacy through Best Buddies.
A graduate of the University of Redlands, Gold continues to influence the future of healthcare technology through mentorship, public speaking and thought leadership. His work has set new benchmarks in digital health innovation, positioning CHOC as a model for pediatric healthcare systems nationwide.
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
With more than 25 years of experience in finance and operations, Ann Fong is a seasoned executive recognized for her ability to drive profitability, lead organizational transformation, and execute complex financial strategies. Currently serving as chief financial officer and chief operating officer at Z SUPPLY, Ann has been instrumental in scaling the company through operational excellence and disciplined financial management.
At Z SUPPLY, Fong oversees a 567,000-square-foot warehouse distribution center and a workforce of more than 450 employees, ensuring seamless logistics and supply chain operations in a rapidly evolving retail environment. Her strong command of financial structures has supported growth in dynamic, high-change industries. She has led successful debt restructures – including factoring, unitranche loans and credit facilities up to $100 million – as well as post-sale transactional work that safeguarded long-term stability and expansion.
Fong’s extensive background in mergers and acquisitions further distinguishes her leadership. Her portfolio includes major transactions, such as the acquisition of Braven (2013), Clamcase (2014), Incase Designs (2016), Skullcandy (2017) and Griffin Technologies (2017). She also played key roles in the sale of Paul Frank Industries to Saban Capital (2010) and BB Dakota to Steve Madden, Ltd. (2019). Each transaction reflects her ability to guide organizations through critical transitions while maximizing shareholder value.
Earlier in her career, Fong’s financial expertise and operational insights earned her industry-wide recognition. In 2015, she was named “Rising Star CFO of the Year” by the Orange County Business Journal, a testament to her forward-thinking leadership and impact on the regional business community.
A graduate of California State University, Fullerton, Fong continues to build on her legacy as a results-driven leader, driving growth and efficiency while fostering a culture of operational and financial excellence at Z SUPPLY.
Ann FONG
Z SUPPLY
Chief Financial Officer / Chief Operating Officer
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL
Janet DENNERLINE
KTGY Group, Inc
General Counsel
Janet Dennerline is general counsel at KTGY Group, Inc., a nationally recognized full-service architectural and design firm headquartered in Irvine, California. Since joining the organization in 2019, she has played an essential role in overseeing KTGY’s legal affairs and guiding the company through the complex and evolving real estate and construction industries.
With more than 20 years of legal experience, Dennerline leverages her deep expertise in construction law to manage risk, oversee contract negotiations and resolve claims and litigation. Her strategic leadership has been particularly valuable over the past year as she partnered with KTGY’s management team to navigate market uncertainty, implementing measures to reduce costs, limit claim severity and position the company for sustained success despite industry challenges.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dennerline has consistently demonstrated a commitment to service and leadership. She has held board and executive roles with local bar associations and nonprofit organizations, contributing her expertise and insight to advance both the legal profession and community initiatives. Driven by her passion for public service, she continues to volunteer her time with nonprofits that support underserved populations, extending her impact well beyond her corporate responsibilities.
Dennerline earned her law degree from California Western School of Law, where she developed the foundation for her distinguished legal career. Over the course of two decades, she has built a reputation as a trusted advisor, skilled negotiator and dedicated advocate for both her clients and her community.
As she marks her fifth year with KTGY, Dennerline remains a vital force in shaping the company’s future and fostering stability in an unpredictable market. Her proven leadership, professional integrity and unwavering dedication continue to define her career and her contributions to the legal and business communities.
PRESIDENT OR CEO: SMALL COMPANY
For more than 30 years, Ivo A. Tjan has built his career on the principles of service, humility and leadership. As chairman, president and CEO, he has led with a people-first philosophy that has shaped not only the success of his organization but also the well-being of employees, clients and the broader Southern California community.
Since founding his company 24 years ago, Tjan has guided its growth into one of the nation’s most respected financial institutions, recognized by Newsweek in 2025 as one of America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions. Under his leadership, the organization has been consistently named to the OC 500 Directory of Influence, ranked among the Fastest Growing Public Companies and recognized as one of the Top 100 Publicly Traded Banks.
Tjan’s leadership is distinguished by his commitment to fostering a supportive workplace culture. He empowers employees through mentorship, team-building initiatives and professional development, ensuring they have the resources and encouragement to thrive. For clients, he offers more than financial expertise; he builds trusted partnerships rooted in care, helping individuals and businesses achieve lasting success.
Beyond business, Tjan is a dedicated community leader. He actively supports causes, including the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, the Journey of Hope Gala, Working Wardrobes’ Infinite Horizons Gala, Ante Up for Autism and the Orange County Fire Authority Best & Bravest Awards. He also engages local Chambers of Commerce and professional associations, providing valuable economic updates that help steward business growth across the region.
A graduate of California State University, Fullerton, Tjan serves on several boards, including Working Wardrobes, YPO, CEO Affiliation Group, Bank CEO Network and The Pacific Club. His legacy reflects not only professional success but also a lifelong dedication to uplifting others, making him a true visionary and role model.
Ivo TJAN
CommerceWest Bank
Chairman & CEO
PRESIDENT OR CEO: MIDSIZE COMPANY
Jennifer ORLANDO
Arbonne International
Chief Executive Officer
Jennifer Orlando, chief executive officer of Arbonne International, is a seasoned business leader with more than two decades of experience building global sales teams and driving consistent growth across retail and direct sales organizations. With a career spanning beauty and nutrition, she has held leadership roles at renowned brands including Benefit Cosmetics, part of the LVMH portfolio, and Stella & Dot.
Orlando’s tenure at Arbonne began as chief sales officer, where she supported a vibrant community of more than half a million Independent Consultants across six countries. Her leadership fueled exponential, year-over-year growth by empowering consultants with tools, training and a culture of collaboration. Elevated to CEO, Orlando now oversees all aspects of the organization, from operations and sales to brand mission and engagement, with a sharp focus on global success and sustainable expansion.
At the helm, Orlando has distinguished herself through her ability to translate forward-thinking strategies into measurable results. She has championed the use of digital tools and innovative platforms to strengthen consultant engagement and market reach, while ensuring operational excellence and long-term scalability. Her leadership emphasizes both results and relationships, balancing ambitious growth initiatives with the preservation of Arbonne’s strong community culture and values.
With global experience across diverse cultures and markets, Orlando has honed a leadership style rooted in adaptability, collaboration and vision. She is recognized for developing strategies that inspire high performance while fostering authentic connections – a dual focus that has allowed Arbonne to thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace.
A graduate of California State University, Monterey Bay, Orlando also serves on the board of the Direct Selling Association, where she continues to shape the future of the industry. Through her vision and commitment, she is advancing Arbonne’s mission of empowering people to flourish through sustainable, healthy living and entrepreneurial opportunity.
PRESIDENT OR CEO: LARGE COMPANY
Brian Helleland serves a dual role as chief executive of Providence St. Joseph Hospital in Orange and chief executive for the Orange County/High Desert, Providence South Division. With nearly 30 years of executive leadership in healthcare delivery, including 19 years with Providence, Helleland brings deep expertise in building clinical programs and services in collaboration with physicians, nurses and community partners.
At Providence St. Joseph Hospital, a 483-bed facility supported by more than 3,150 caregivers and 1,200 medical staff, Helleland oversees clinical operations, nursing and ancillary services. In his broader divisional role, he works closely with chief executives at Mission Hospital, St. Jude Medical Center and St. Mary Medical Center, guiding acute care operations, strategic planning and integrated delivery initiatives across the region. His leadership has been critical in advancing Providence South Division’s network strategy, enhancing access, affordability and quality of care through the growth of its medical group and affiliated physician network.
Helleland is widely recognized for fostering a “radically caregiver-centric” culture that emphasizes collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement. By championing open communication and professional development, he empowers caregivers and physicians alike, creating an environment where teamwork, trust and excellence drive exceptional patient outcomes.
Under his leadership, Providence Orange County has achieved significant milestones, including the opening of the Helen Caloggero Women’s and Family Center in 2024, upcoming health centers in San Clemente and Rancho Mission Viejo, expansion projects at Mission Viejo and nationally recognized clinical innovations ranging from advanced cardiac programs to groundbreaking transplant and robotic surgery services.
Helleland earned his master’s degree in health administration from Arizona State University and his undergraduate degree from Concordia University, St. Paul. He serves on multiple boards, including CalOptima, Hoag Orthopedic Institute, Orange County Business Council, Providence St. Joseph Hospital Foundation and St. Joseph Heritage, while also supporting community initiatives through the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange.
Brian HELLELAND
Providence
Chief Executive of Providence St. Joseph Hospital in Orange & Chief Executive for the Orange County/High Desert, Providence South Division
