Ascendex Consulting

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Our Story

A Story of Transformation

2016 - 2019

The Early Years

Ascendex was founded in October of 2016 as a growth strategy consultancy. While it saw modest and consistent growth in its first few years, clients were becoming increasingly interested in the tech enablement aspect of growth. Ascendex began to intentionally shift to digital transformation in 2019 and was rewarded with record growth.  

2020 - 2021

Transformed by a Pandemic

With big goals entering 2020, Ascendex hosted a well-attended event in Feb 2020 and moved into its first private office on March 1. By the end of March, the world and the company had been upturned by a pandemic and the office was forced to close. With the belief in a brighter day around the corner, the company cemented what are today some its most important global partnerships (India, Canada, & Peru). In 2021, rebounded significantly with the company experiencing record revenue levels. 

2022 and
onward

 Growing & Scaling

Ascendex has been blessed with 200% YOY growth for two consecutive years. The leadership team has expanded significantly, and several new capabilities have been launched. In these two years, Ascendex’ global resources have expanded from 300 to over 2,000 today, enabling the company to support its customers in more meaningful ways than ever.  

Our Values

The Value of Every Human. Regardless.

Each person's unique experiences and perspectives add vibrant hues to the tapestry of our shared existence. In a world where diversity paints the canvas of humanity, true beauty is found in recognizing the inherent and incalculable value of every human being.

Well Being

Well being reflects the whole quality of an individual's life and their ability to thrive. It encompasses mental and emotional, as well as physical health. It includes positive social connections, and a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Work plays a role. In nurturing concern for the well being of every individual, we sow the seeds of a future where the flourishing of one is celebrated by all.

Collaboration

Collaboration in work transforms individual endeavors Into symphonies of collective achievement. Through collaboration, diverse talents converge, fostering a wealth of Ideas that amplifies creativity, accelerates progress, and brings forth solutions beyond what a single mind could conceive.

Passion

Passion infuses our work with energy, transforming routine tasks into opportunities for creativity and innovation. Fueled by passion, individuals become unstoppable forces, driven to overcome challenges and achieve remarkable outcomes that benefit them and inspire those around them.

Excellence

Excellence isn't a destination; it's a continuous journey of refinement and growth. Striving for excellence cultivates a culture of continuous improvement, fostering innovation, credibility, and a lasting impact that resonates far beyond the immediate task.

Tenacity

Tenacity is the unwavering anchor that keeps us grounded amidst adversity, propelling us forward when faced with obstacles. The resilience to persist, adapt, and learn from setbacks leads to the mastery of skills and the fulfillment of ambitious goals.

Solution Mindset

A solution mindset is the compass that directs our focus from problems to possibilities. It empowers us to navigate challenges proactively, igniting a journey of exploration and innovation that not only resolves issues but paves the way for continuous growth and success.

Generosity

Generosity creates a virtuous cycle of goodwill, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among colleagues. By freely sharing knowledge, support, and resources, we uplift those around us and contribute to a collaborative environment where collective achievements flourish.

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Becky Brister

Operations, Finance and Administrative Lead

Accomplished operational and digital transformation consultant in finance, supply chain and operational software/systems in Manufacturing, Finance, Distribution, Retail and Supply Chain Management. Served on both sides of large ERP system/software initiatives and implementations brings tremendous value as a trusted partner committed to helping make sound decisions from sourcing options through implementation. Decades of experience and learning with small and mid-sized businesses moving them to the next level of operational efficiency and revenue grow. She has recently entered the world of board member of non-profit organizations and love supporting them with her vast experience.

Outside the Office

Becky is passionate about her family, which includes 7 very active grandchildren, and she attends as many of their activities as she can. She and her husband of 45 years have an awesome group of friends they love to travel with. Home and product design is a place she finds fulfilling.

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Renee Ramler

Administrative Assistant

Renee has re-entered the workforce after many years of home educating her six children. She previously worked as the sole administrative assistant at her church for several years.  It was there she fell in love with serving others and assisting the needs of a core leadership team. She has a passion for helping others achieve their goals.  

Outside the Office

Renee enjoys cooking, walking and is an avid reader. If she can do all of that at her family cabin while entertaining friends, her bucket is full! 

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Jamie Anderson

Operations & Administrative Support Professional

Jamie comes to Ascendex with 8 years of experience in Human Resources in a variety of support roles. Having worked for both large corporations and a small family business she knows how to get the job done. Prior to joining Ascendex, Jamie took a break from her career to start a family. As Operations & Administrative Support Professional, she wears many hats contributing to the daily operations of the Ascendex business including HR, Accounting, and Operations. 

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management with an emphasis in Human Resources and a Minor in Psychology from St. Cloud State University.

Outside the Office

You will see her running…after her 3 very energetic and busy boys! She loves being her family’s biggest cheerleader, especially in the bleachers and on the field. She has a passion for serving others and enjoys home organization.

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John Bird

Director of Data and Business Intelligence

John has over twenty years of enterprise systems expertise. John has a breadth of experience across ERP and Data and Business Intelligence. He has played lead roles in implementations and integrations, from ERP implementations of Workday, PeopleSoft, and Oracle to Big Data Analytics with Amazon, Hadoop, and other BI-related tools. 

John’s career has allowed him to work with General Motors, Mayo Clinic, Norstan, Farstad Oil, Campus Crusade, Pentax, Thomson Reuters, Express Scripts, and Castlelake—just to name a few. He has been a COO of a Legal Software Company and has led implementations of BI solutions as well as ERP applications.

Education

John completed a BA in Mathematics from Bethel University, Software Engineering Development Program through EDS, PMP certification, and is in the process of completing a Big Data Analytics master’s degree from San Diego State University

Outside the Office

John loves family time with his wife, seven children, eight grandkids, and two Irish setters, woodworking, and smoking whatever can fit on a Recteq!

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Benji Borner

Managing Director, Innovation & Leadership Services

Accomplished business-savvy Technology Executive with a global background serving multiple industries. Broad experience in driving business value, strategic planning, leadership, process improvement, P&L responsibility, and execution. Regarded as a strategic thinker with a high business acumen that delivers to commitments in complex enterprise environments. Strong analytical and problem-solving thinking skills with the ability to drive positive change. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills that authentically builds high performing teams while inspiring collaboration and loyalty. Utilizes technical aptitude along with a thorough understanding of business operations, finance, and relationships to drive value and deliver results

Education

  • Bachelor’s degrees in Business Management from St. Cloud State University with a minor in Computer Information Systems.
  • Masters degree in Software Engineering from the University of St. Thomas.

Outside the Office

I’m passionate about supporting and coaching my kids in their activities, whether it’s on the hockey rink or the baseball field. I love spending time on the water, unwinding at the cabin, and prioritizing my physical and mental well-being. I also thrive on engaging in meaningful conversations that spark new ideas. If I’m off the grid, chances are you’ll find me in the yard—either perfecting our backyard rink or meticulously tending to the landscape.

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Brandon Maciej

Amplify Practice Lead & Shareholder

Brandon leads the Ascendex Data & BI practice and has spent over eighteen years leading organizations through operational change and technology transformation. 

Brandon’s career has included consulting roles at Wipfli LLP, one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the U.S., and UnitedHealth Group, a Fortune Five healthcare organization. He has vast experience in multiple industries, including manufacturing and distribution, healthcare, financial services, professional services, technology, and government. Brandon is a Six Sigma Master Black Belt, and his skillsets include change management, business intelligence, strategy, and technology implementation.

Education

Brandon received two bachelor’s degrees (Entrepreneurship and Marketing) from the Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota and a Six Sigma Master Black Belt from Villanova University.

Outside the Office

He enjoys boating and serves as the President of the Schmidt Lake Improvement Association. He is an avid sports enthusiast with season tickets to the Twins, Gopher hockey, and Gopher football. His favorite sports are soccer (go Loons!) and football (go Vikings and Gophers!).

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Matt Bochnicek

CEO, Founder

Matt leads Ascendex and founded the business in 2016. He has spent his career of over two decades in the fields of technology, strategy, innovation, and growth. Matt provides strategic direction and leadership for the business and serves as a management consultant or engagement leader on critical projects. Before Ascendex, Matt was a consulting partner in one of the most prominent accounting and consulting firms in the U.S., where he launched and led the Twin Cities consulting practice, one of the largest in the Minneapolis/Saint Paul metro area. He was also a member of the consulting division’s executive leadership team. Matt has worked with hundreds of organizations ranging from emerging businesses to some of the largest corporations in the world. He has significant experience in many industries, including professional services, financial services, manufacturing and distribution, healthcare, technology, logistics, and government/public sector. Matt is consistently active on non-profit boards and foundations, currently serving on the board of directors and executive committee for a non-profit where he recently completed a two-year term as board president. He is also an adjunct faculty member and venture center business advisor for the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management. Matt is a former Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal “40 Under 40” honoree and is a speaker, panelist, moderator, and competition judge in various capacities in the Twin Cities. 

Education

Matt received an MBA (Strategy, Finance, & Marketing) from the Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota and a bachelor’s degree (Economics & Political Science) from Creighton University.

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Kathryn Kvas

Director of Solutions

Kathryn has over a decade of expertise spanning across strategy, technology, operations, M&A, data and analytics, change management, and business development. Kathryn’s career has included consulting roles at Wipfli LLP, one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the U.S., and UnitedHealth Group, the largest U.S. healthcare organization. Prior to joining Ascendex, Kathryn was a Director of Business Development & Analytics for a $500M+ annual revenue business within UnitedHealth Group. Her industry experience includes: technology, manufacturing and distribution, healthcare, financial services, professional services, and government. 

Education

  • Two bachelor’s degrees (Operations Technology Management and Finance, Investment, & Banking) from the Wisconsin School of Business, University of Wisconsin—Madison.
  • Excel certification from the Wisconsin School of Business, University of Wisconsin—Madison.
  • Six Sigma Green Belt from Villanova University.

Outside the Office

When not at the office you can find her enjoying any and all outdoor activities: long walks with her dog, paddle boarding, volleyball, skiing, golf, and tailgating in the fall…If you notice, there are a few Gopher alumni on the team, and Kathryn being a Badger alum can promote a variety of heckling within the office.

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Matt Leirdahl

Director of ERP

Matt’s 10+ year career has included consulting roles at Wipfli LLP and RSM US LLP, two of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the U.S. He has a vast background in ERP and supply chain technologies across industries, including food and beverage, life sciences, discrete manufacturing, and retail. In addition to ERP expertise, Matt has extensive knowledge in business intelligence, integration design, custom development, and change management.

Education

Two Bachelor’s degrees (Entrepreneurial Management and Management Information Systems) from the Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota.

Outside the Office

When not hard at work for his clients, Matt can be found in the tailgate lot at the University of Minnesota, the hardware store for his new DIY project, watching whatever NFL game is on TV, or tending the smoker on his back patio.

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Haylee Morgan

Technology Consulting Manager

Haylee’s career began as a consultant at RSM US LLP, one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the U.S. Following her time at RSM, she worked for the Texas based technology consulting firm, Rand Group. She has a vast background in ERP and supply chain technologies across industries, including food and beverage, and retail. She is a Microsoft certified consultant in Supply Chain Management, Finance, and the Power Platform.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems and a certificate in Computer Science from the University of Georgia, Athens.

Outside the Office

Haylee is a proud Georgia Bulldog, the first of her kind here at Ascendex. When she’s not cheering on the dawgs or hard at work, you can find her playing pickleball, doing yoga or spending time with family!

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