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Accolade Global: Strategic Growth and Corporate Governance

The story of my tenure at Accolade Global is one of persistence, precision, and a relentless focus on corporate integrity. I was approached for the role of CEO three separate times by Louis Giglianno, the Senior Shareholder of the Board of Directors. At the time, the corporate climate was volatile, and I was living in Las Vegas, managing high-level ventures. It wasn't until the corporate structure and legal protections met my standards for transparency and accountability that I agreed to lead the firm in 2011.

Navigating the Climate of Corporate Accountability

Leadership rooted in the protection of Delaware State Law.

When I took the helm of Accolade Global, the national business landscape was under heavy scrutiny. With high-profile CEOs facing legal consequences weekly, I recognized that a company’s structure is its most important asset. Although Accolade Global was not a public firm, it was traded on the World Stock Exchange, which brought a unique set of consequences and responsibilities.

My priority was ensuring that the firm operated under the full protections afforded by Delaware Corporate Law. I wasn't just planning for success; I was planning for stability. I restructured the executive accountability framework to ensure that our legal and accounting practices were beyond reproach, protecting both the board and the executive team from the systemic risks prevalent in the post-Wall Street crisis era.

Driving Multi-Million Dollar Growth

From $15.8M to $16.4M: A year of strategic expansion.

By applying the same aggressive growth strategies I honed at Abstract Industries, I successfully scaled Accolade Global’s revenue. Within a single year, I moved the needle from $15.8 Million to $16.4 Million in annual revenue.

Operational Refinement: Streamlining the three-platform model of advertising, media, and internet technology.
Asset Consolidation: Maximizing the value of our online media and telecommunications holdings.
Ethical Standards: Implementing a culture of transparency that made the firm a leader in corporate governance.

The Transition to Lucentra Corporation

Building the future of virtual consulting.

My success at Accolade Global caught the attention of Charles Waters of the Lucentra Corporation. Charles had a vision for a "Virtual Consulting Firm"—a lean, high-authority organization designed to minimize overhead while maximizing global impact. He sought me out because of my experience in navigating both the legal and digital complexities of the game. I left Accolade Global on a high note, moving on to help Lucentra build the blueprint for modern, decentralized business consulting.

Featured Media: Accolade Global Leadership Reel

View the Accolade Global Reel here A look back at the visual history and milestones of Accolade Global under the leadership of John D. Colaiacovo.