Russ Barnes

Colonel (retired) Russ Barnes is the CEO and Senior Business Advisor to Entrepreneurs and Executives at Systro, an organization design firm specializing in small business development. His 30+ years of experience in organization development is drawn from military service, franchise ownership, academic programs, and strategy consulting, specifically with small businesses. After retirement from the military, Russ grew a franchise territory from zero to profitability in less than three years. His growth was based on a clear vision, building an effective network, consistently delivering a quality product and maintaining a relentless focus on customer service. Russ is a graduate of the Referral Institute Certified Networker program where he received extensive training in referral marketing. He received his Bachelor’s Degree from Manhattan College (NY), his MBA from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and his Master of Science degree in Strategic Studies from Air University. He is currently earning a PhD in Organization Development at Benedictine University.