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74th Annual Regional Foundry Conference and Exposition
March 01, 2012
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Management Team

Philip Laney - President & CEO

Philip Laney became B&L Information Systems'  President in May of 1999, after serving as Manager in the Client Services and the Business Development Departments.  His 25 years in the software business and his customer-focused background give him a unique perspective in today’s business environment. 

 

After implementing Philip's team management philosophy of running the business, B&L has led the way in business innovations including market changing products such as Odyssey (B&L’s Windows-based product) and the Odyssey Software as a Service.  Philip has been published in Die Cast Engineer, Modern Castings, and Foundry Management and Technology.  Philip is also a sought-after speaker for various industry events. 

Philip earned a bachelor of science degree in business administration from Ferris State University.  In his spare time, Philip and his wife Becky enjoy traveling with their three children as well as their children’s varied activities. 

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Doug Hinman - Senior VP - Research and Design

Doug joined B&L in 1989 as a Software Development Engineer.  As Vice-President of R&D, Doug has lead the technological innovations from B&L including; Odyssey, Intelligent Views, Odyssey Shop Floor Manager, and Odyssey Software as a Service.  Doug is also responsible for all software enhancements and development which includes BLIS-400, Odyssey, and Odyssey Software as a Service.  

Doug has over 30 years experience in programming, design, and management.  He has a degree in Computer Programming from Davenport College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. 

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Brenda Povlock - Vice President - Client Services

Brenda Povlock joined B&L in 1995 as programmer.  She transferred to the Client Services Department as Project Manager, where she was a key player in the installation of BLIS-DC (Data Collection) throughout our client base.  Since taking over as Client Services Manager, Brenda has implemented a state of the art Project Tracking software, created a Help Desk, and realigned the department, all which has lead to higher customer satisfaction levels and shorter implementation time frames. 
 
Prior to coming to B&L, Brenda held various positions in operations, management, and programming in information systems.  She holds a degree in Computer Technology from Purdue University. 

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Ron Thomas - Vice President - Administration

Ron joined the firm in 1996 as a project consultant.  In 1997 he moved into the Controller's position.  Ron's background includes working as a financial analyst for the foundry group of a flow control manufacturer and also for an automotive supplier.  In addition, Ron has worked in sales for a mainframe manufacturer, and he has worked in cost accounting in the office furniture and truck manufacturing industries.  
 
Ron has his CPIM from APICS, his CMA from IMA, and an MBA from Indiana University.  Ron lives in South Bend, Indiana, and spends his spare time bicycling, golfing, basketball, house renovations, and learning to play the guitar. 

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Matt Gacek - Vice President - Business Development

Matt is responsible for all aspects of marketing and sales including revenue and market share growth, partnerships and alliances, corporate identity and new product initiatives. 

 
Since joining the firm in 1997, Matt has held positions of increasing responsibilities.  In 2008, Matt was instrumental in developing the business model for B&L's Odyssey Software as a Service and its very successful launch.  Matt has spoken to several groups about Software as a Service and Cloud Computing including Progress Exchange and various AFS chapters.  Matt continues his passion, drive, and openness to new ideas by heading up B&L's re-branding campaign and the design and release of B&L's new website and on-line community.  
 
Prior to joining B&L, Matt was a Production Manager for Zenith Data Systems.  He received his degree in Business Management from Saint Joseph's College.  In his spare time Matt enjoys weightlifting, home projects, and spending time with his wife and their two children.  
 
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Joe Harmon - Vice President - Technology

Joe became B&L Information Systems’ Vice President of Technology in 2011.  He is responsible for B&L’s technical and technology issues.  Joe joined B&L in 2001 as a Software Engineer.  He has been instrumental in the design and development of Odyssey, Intelligent Views, Supplier Portal, and the new Odyssey web user interface.  He is recognized for his creativeness and innovative thinking. 

Joe has over 25 years experience in development and design.  He holds a degree in Business Management from Indiana Institute of Technology, lives in La Porte, Indiana, spends his spare time leading worship at his local church, and is married with three children.

In Their Own Words

  • JB Brown
    President
    Bremen Castings, Inc.

    "Odyssey gives me the information I need when I need it."
  • View all testimonials

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