Managing and Developing High-Performing Teams in Complex Environments is a dynamic panel discussion at AdNet Phoenix 2026 that will feature leaders from small, medium and large community foundations sharing real-world examples and strategies for managing people and performance in advancement, with a focus on navigating the existing political environment, leading through change and setting meaningful KPIs. Panelists will explore key success drivers, discuss challenges they’ve overcome, and highlight relationship-driven strategies that have led to transformative results.
Michelle Gayles
Chief Impact Officer
Arizona Community Foundation
Molly Rand
Senior Director, Philanthropy
The Chicago Community Trust
Tim Bresnahan
VP, Advancement & Philanthropic Services
Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta
Sharon Tiknis
Chief Client Experience Officer, Alford Group
Sharon Tiknis has held leadership positions in the nonprofit sector for over 35 years, developing distinguished philanthropic programs and assembling influential volunteer leaders to build organizational capacity and drive results. Having worked previously with Alford Group, Sharon returned to the firm in 2014.
Ciara Claraty
Senior Consultant, Alford Group
Ciara Claraty has over 10 years of experience in organizational development consulting and executive coaching, working with nonprofit organizations and Fortune 1000 companies. Her projects have spanned organizations such as The Bay Church, Assemblies of God, Association of Change Management Professionals, Polycom, PG&E and Workday.