Ascend Talent Strategies

With over 25 years of experience, Russ is an expert in leadership assessment, succession planning, organizational cultural transformation, and executive coaching. He combines scientific industrial psychology knowledge with keen intuition and a deep understanding of business. He has worked within a multi-billion-dollar organization's HR department and played a role in a national task force for testing and personnel research in the electric utility industry. Since 1997, Russ has partnered with two Industrial/Organizational Psychology firms; his client base includes Fortune 500 companies, governmental agencies, private equity firms, merger and acquisition due diligence activities, and entrepreneurial start-ups. In 2019, he co-founded Ascend Talent Strategies, Inc. Russ holds a B.S. in psychology from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota and an M.S. and Ph.D. in industrial and organizational psychology from the Illinois Institute of Technology.

Julie brings over two decades of international experience across Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Her expertise centers on assessment, succession planning, organizational cultural transformation, and coaching for individuals and teams spanning various sectors. Drawing from her educational and counseling psychology background, Julie leverages extensive one-on-one consulting to help clients address workplace challenges effectively. Julie excels in training individuals and teams, applying techniques such as personality assessments, emotional intelligence, and team dynamics to facilitate their development. She is well equipped to embrace a multicultural perspective in all her endeavors. Julie holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Adelaide, Australia. She earned an MSc in Organizational Psychology from the University of London, England, and completed her Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology at Northern Illinois University.

Bob is a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in delivering leadership assessment services. He assists clients in identifying candidates that align with role requirements, cultural context, and future potential. Additionally, Bob provides team effectiveness workshops, individual and team development, succession planning, and offers practical executive coaching services. He also provides valuable support to private equity firms and client organizations in M&A due diligence and integration. As a Veteran of the United States Air Force, Bob consulted with command staff on a range of critical issues. In 2019, he co-founded Ascend Talent Strategies, Inc., driven by the belief that organizations investing wisely in their people will ultimately outlast, outmaneuver, and outperform their competition. Bob holds a B.A. in psychology from Hope College in Holland, Michigan and a Psy.D. in psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.