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 is a Senior Consultant at Alford Group with 12 years of experience in strategic planning, change management and organizational development. She helps nonprofit leaders and boards set priorities and put their plans into practice. Ciara currently advises The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia on board governance. Her previous strategic planning clients include Retirement Housing Foundation and the Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago.