Team

Anthony (Tony) Manna is Founder & Chairman of Signet, LLC.

Innovative & Relentless: Tony’s Unwavering Passion For Big Picture Success

Tony founded Signet in 1995 and now serves the organization as lead strategist. Tony has spent 25+ years creating collaborative partnerships for Signet that relentlessly advance initiatives and ventures in diversified manufacturing, distribution, health and wellness, technology, investment banking, and finance. Tony has also developed over $5 billion in real estate development and property management projects. As a direct result of his steadfast leadership and inspirational vision, Signet has developed an unconventional approach to global investment that uniquely engages customized resources to orchestrate long-term growth and positive impact across many business sectors.

The Driving Force Behind The Aeros Coming to Akron

A consummate champion for the growth and development of the City of Akron, and an admitted baseball nut, Tony is responsible for bringing the Akron Aeros (now the Rubber Ducks) and Canal Park Stadium to Akron. As a young lawyer, Tony read an article in the Beacon Journal about the possibility of a team coming to Akron and set out to make it happen.

“It was Manna who, as former Mayor Don Plusquellic acknowledged, ‘almost single-handedly delivered this team to the city.”’

The Indomitable Don Plusquellic, Steve Love (2016, Ringtaw Books)

Tony tracked down the Northeastern League team owner who was looking at three possible cities to bring a team. He made it his mission to ensure that the winner was Akron, Ohio. With only a short 30 days to respond to the owner’s requests, Tony was able to negotiate the deal and secure the right for his company, Akron Stadium Corp., to develop the stadium. The development and opening of Canal Park in 1997 spurred more than 20 years of continued economic growth in downtown Akron.

Tony is a graduate of The Ohio State University and the Emory University School of Law. He is also the Chairman and co-founder of the business law firm of Brennan, Manna and Diamond, LLC, which specializes in corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, healthcare, and real estate.

Bolstering Impact & Reach: How Mark Enhances Our Entire Operation Daily

Mark oversees Signet’s commercial development efforts and portfolio of diversified companies, including various international initiatives. His vital involvement includes work with strategic planning, executive management, new project development, project finance, asset management, and budgeting.

Navigating Tough Waters & Always Leading Signet Down The Right Path

Joining the company in 2000 as a partner, Mark is involved in setting the strategic direction of the organization as well as supporting development and expansion strategies along with asset management. Mark has extensive expertise crafting complex business plans, devising growth strategies, and managing a variety of diversified investments and platforms within Signet. These projects range from public-private partnerships, commercial and industrial acquisitions, start-ups and early-stage initiatives, financial services, environmental service investments, healthcare, and higher education.

International Insight, Expert Oversight: How Ralph Ensures Signet Makes The Smartest Money Moves

Ralph is directly responsible for the oversight of all accounting, finance, treasury, and information technology areas for Signet’s corporate functions and its related operating entities. In addition, Ralph is also responsible for the evaluation and due diligence of Signet’s portfolio company acquisitions and subsequent financial oversight. Ralph brings more than 18 years of broad-based global accounting, finance, and general management experience to our team.

Establishing Vision & Executing with Industry Expertise

As President of Sprayroq’s operations, Jeremy is responsible for establishing the vision for Sprayroq, while optimizing the diverse network of domestic and global licensees across the coatings industry. Previously, Jeremy spent 5 years with IXS Coatings in various leadership positions, (LINE-X and Ultimate Linings) ranging from senior director of sales and marketing and director within the utility, manufacturing, and industrial business units. Prior to IXS, Jeremy worked with AT&T and PepsiCo.

What Kevin Does Best

Kevin covers a lot of ground as Senior Vice President and Managing Director for Signet Real Estate Group. He is responsible for managing new opportunities and playing an integral role in all facets of new real estate development projects for the organization. He thrives throughout every step of the process including project structure, finance, underwriting, project design, and construction.

A Trusted Hand For Those High Impact Projects

Kevin has managed the development of more than $200 million of public-private projects, strategic healthcare developments, higher education initiatives, and urban and mixed-use projects. With more than 15 years of construction project management and development finance experience under his belt, Kevin brings an added layer of expertise and confidence to the Signet team.

How Holly Strategically Aligns Signet’s Mission With Individual Team Member’s Goals

Holly Colson is the Director of Human Resources for Signet, LLC. In this role, Holly’s responsibilities include developing and maintaining the Human Resource platform across Signet’s portfolio companies with a focus on:

• Compliance
• Compensation & Benefits
• Recruiting & Onboarding
• Training & Development
• Human Resource Department Management
• Organizational effectiveness

Continued Industry Involvement To Keep Everyone Engaged In Meaningful Ways

With more than 20 years of HR experience, Holly is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management and the Association for Talent Development. Over the years, she has been involved in the Northeast Ohio Chapter of ATD, where she was on the Board of Directors. She has also been involved with the International Alliance for Learning and has presented at the National Conference.

Equity Management Tailored to Our Investors 

Michael Del Medico is Vice President of Equity Syndication & Investor Relations. In this role, Michael assists with Signet’s Equity offerings. He joined Signet in 2020 after practicing law in Akron and around the state of Ohio for 30 years, specializing primarily in complex civil litigation. 

A Proven Track Record of Development 

After retiring from his Managing Partner position in 2010, Michael changed careers and worked for his high school alma mater for the next ten years. Initially, he served as Director of Athletics before becoming Vice President of Advancement and Planning. In that role, he was responsible for all fundraising initiatives. This included growing the endowment and a significant capital campaign and planning, funding, and overseeing numerous campus enhancements and construction projects from start to finish.  

Michael is a graduate of Brown University and The University of Dayton School of Law. 

Office Manager, Blue Grass Chemical Specialties

General responsibilities - Customer service (talking/emailing customers; checking pricing, availability on orders they place), order entry, preparing shipping documents and labels, setting up carriers for pickups, invoicing customers once their order has shipped, ordering office supplies

Experience/education - Experience in customer service and order entry/DOT HazMat certified

As Digital Content Manager, Seán executes items related to all aspects of the content creation process, including written copy, blogs, websites, emails, photography, videography, and drone operation. From strategic ideation to hands-on production, Seán strives to create pieces that resonate with intended audiences and humanize brands, working to elevate the public presence of Signet’s portfolio and their clients.

Seán holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Kent State University.

Finding Exceptions & Leveraging Unique Experiences

As Principal Managing Director at Signet Capital/Signet Securities, David shows his true strength when he is managing and developing Signet’s Tax-exempt Bond and FHA business lines. David brings more than 20 years of taxable and tax-exempt bond financing and government-guaranteed project loan experience having participated in transactions in excess of $3 billion. He also carries with him valuable expertise in real estate finance, municipal finance, and public-private partnerships. Looking for support for your wastewater treatment facility or emerging renewable energy project? He can help there, as well.

David holds FINRA Series 24, Series 53, Series 7, Series 79, and Series 63 Licenses.

As the Corporate Accounting Manager for Integrated Wellness Partners, Tina oversees all general accounting functions of the organization and provides monthly financial reporting. She works closely with the management team of each IWP center to provide financial support. She holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Kent State University and brings over twelve years of experience in the healthcare industry.

The Crossroads of Consistent Quality & Ground-Breaking Innovation

As technical director, James Hammon manages quality control and R&D at Accufoam®. He works closely with the sales department and customers to continue developing cutting-edge technologies that are crucial for the advancement of the industry. He also holds a degree in biochemistry from the University of Alabama and an MBA from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

How Anthony Spreads His Unmatched Technical Expertise Across The Company

As a Sales Engineer at Sprayroq, Anthony’s focus is on educating consultants, engineers, water infrastructure asset managers, and owners on structural infrastructure rehabilitation and the trenchless technology market. In addition to providing technical support and product knowledge, Anthony’s goal is to serve as a trusted advisor to engineers and asset owners, offering a level of comfort from a fellow engineer during their due diligence efforts.

Breaking Ground: Spencer Uses His Extensive Experience to Direct New Real Estate Projects

As Senior Vice President and Managing Director for Signet Real Estate Group out of the Jacksonville, Florida office, Spencer is responsible for managing development activities for the company. This includes overseeing project structure, finance, client relationships, project design, and construction.

Before joining the team, Spencer oversaw the structuring of more than $1B in lending opportunities. He has also managed more than $400M in project financing and development projects throughout the United States.

Izzy is Signet’s Social Media & Marketing Specialist, overseeing the company’s social media channels, events, and branded swag for our client portfolio. With natural creativity, she brings a fresh perspective to every campaign, from ideation to design to execution. Her work is all about engaging, dynamic content that resonates with audiences and enhances brand presence. Izzy holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Kent State University.

President of Property Management

Mike Mandela serves as President of Signet Real Estate Group’s Property Management division where he provides strategic and operational oversight for all Signet property management activities, including the development and implementation of corporate strategy, management of business operations, strategic partnership management, sales and marketing, staffing, and capital planning. Mike brings extensive expertise in the areas of property management, financial services, brokerage, development, and project management to Signet.

Equity Fundraising Expertise On A Global Scale

As Managing Director of Equity Investments, Ed is directly responsible for leading the effort to execute Signet’s equity raises, both in the U.S. and internationally. He brings with him more than 25 years of experience in the financial services industry, specifically when it comes to risk assessment, financial valuation and structuring, portfolio management, business development and investor relations in corporate banking, M&A, and investment management business.

A Proven Capital Allocation Expert

Prior to joining the Signet team, Ed founded two different investment management firms. He also co-founded a hedge fund that grew to more than $70,000,000 in just six years.

Finding The Formula: How Paul Combines Management Experience With Product Expertise

Beginning his career as a Quality Control Chemist and Vice President for Blue Grass Chemical Specialities, LLC, Paul McCauley became Executive Vice President of the company following its acquisition by Signet in October 2017. He handles all of the manufacturing aspects of the organization including customer contract negotiations while also lending a helping hand to Blue Grass’ outside sales teams as a manufacturer’s representative.

Paul brings more than 29 years of manufacturing and operations experience and industry insight to Signet.

An Exemplary Guide to Burgeoning Manufacturing Companies

Robert McClellan oversees the day-to-day operations of accounting and works closely with the executive team to develop and implement strategies that support growth, minimize risk and preserve company assets. He has devoted a majority of his career to the accounting function of various manufacturing companies.

Prior to working at Accufoam®, Robert founded a boutique accounting firm where he and his team served clients’ needs across multiple industries. He acquired his accounting degree from the University of Mississippi – one of the top programs in the country.

Next Level Research & Capital Raising Expertise

As Director of Signet Capital Advisors, Brian provides financial advisory, mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and other corporate finance services to performing companies in the middle market. He is your go-to expert when you need modeling and business research support for an impressive variety of different sectors.

Andy Nelson has been with Blue Grass Chemical Specialties since July 2023. He started his career in catalyst research and development, then moved into pilot plant and process engineering taking lab-scale catalysts to commercial scale. Following that, he went into operations management running chemical plants. From there he spent 5 years in continuous improvement projects and program direction. He next moved into general management running operations for a specialty chemical company for 3 years and led the operations team through double revenue growth during that time. In his role as Director of Operations at Blue Grass, his main responsibility is leading and managing the team delivering our products safely and reliably all while improving the operational efficiency of the plant. Andy holds a TüV Certification for Lean-Sigma Black Belt. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisville In his free time, Andy enjoys traveling, running, and playing chess.

Middle Market Expertise, Bigger Picture Vision

Mike brings to the table more than twenty years of experience in investment banking and strategy development. He particularly thrives when tackling financial advising, mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and growth strategy development and implementation for middle market and large-cap organizations around the world. At Signet Capital Advisors, Mike uses his expertise and passion to handle everything from financial advisory to debt placement services for performing companies.

Since the dawning of his career, Mike has a cumulative transaction value of more than $20 billion.

As the Digital Advertising and Marketing Specialist, Angel Parey manages paid search and social advertising for Signet’s client portfolio. From research and strategy to execution and reporting, she handles all aspects of the paid digital blueprint. Angel graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Baldwin Wallace University.

Expert Insight Into the Ever-Changing Financial World

As Accounting & Treasury Manager, Chrissy takes on the daily accounting and financial reporting for multiple Signet portfolio companies. She provides corporate-level support in the areas of finance, accounting and investor relations. Chrissy holds degrees from The University of Akron – MBA, Management, Walsh University – BA, Accounting and Walsh University – BA, Finance.

Cutting-Edge Collaboration: How Catherine Unites Healthy Living & Collaboration

As Executive Director, Catherine Porter oversees daily operations of the renowned Advocate BroMenn Health & Fitness Center, ABHFC, which includes the 10,000 SF Training and Performance Center. Catherine fosters impactful collaborations and mutually-beneficial synergies among several different entities, including but not limited to:

• Advocate BroMenn Health & Fitness Center
• McLean County Orthopedics

She has partnered physician practices and the Advocate BroMenn Medical Center to create a unique environment where health, well-being, and performance thrive collectively.

Inspiring Growth & Strengthening the Roots of Success

Charlie Rose expertly handles the sales and marketing strategy at Accufoam®. In this role, he uses his extensive background in sales and management to oversee the development of the sales team and work with the executive team on growth strategies and emerging markets.

Prior to working at Accufoam® (a division of Creative Polymer Solutions), Charlie worked as a national sales manager in the chemical distribution industry. He received his BA from North Carolina State University and MBA from Clemson University.

Make Money & Take A Hike With Mr. Rutledge

At any time, you can find Jed taking care of the day-to-day accounting functions as well as financial reporting, account reconciliation, and looking for opportunities to be more efficient and/or save money.  He has a bachelor’s degree from McKendree University and has worked in different accounting roles for a total of 20+ years.  When he’s not finding innovative ways to bolster the books, he’s backpacking, camping and hiking with his sons.

Jason’s Jurisdiction: Using His Accounting Expertise To Break New Ground

Jason is responsible for all of Signet’s Real Estate Group’s accounting, financial reporting, compliance and treasury functions. He also works directly with business leaders to unearth fresh opportunities and manage the accounting for new real estate projects.

Jason is a CPA who kicked off his career as an auditor with Deloitte. Prior to signing with Signet, he spent 14 years serving in various accounting and finance roles for a national real estate developer based in Cleveland, OH.

An Eye On the Bigger Picture: How Amanda Provides Executive Level Operational Administration 

Amanda serves as a high-level administrator, providing operational support for the President & CEO of Signet, LLC. In addition, Amanda supports the Signet Executive Leadership Team while managing the day-to-day operations of the Akron office.   

Amanda received her B.S. in Accounting from the University of Iowa and is also commissioned Notary Public. 

As a Graphic Designer, Taylor Smith brings concepts to life through unique and effective designs. Her work centers on crafting comprehensive brand identities, engaging web graphics, impactful marketing collateral, and diverse digital assets. Taylor is dedicated to developing designs that not only capture attention, but also effectively communicate brand messages that resonate with target audiences.

Taylor graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from The University of Akron. 

A Rich History Of Middle-Market Investment Expertise

Prior to joining Signet Capital Advisors, Mr. Smyers was a Senior Associate at a middle-market investment bank in West Palm Beach, Florida. He was responsible for identifying strategic and financial prospects, performing industry research and market analyses, financial modeling, due diligence and preparing offering memoranda. Mr. Smyers gained significant experience working with middle-market business owners in industries such as industrial manufacturing, consumer products, and consumer services.

Always Swinging For Great Things

Before this chapter in his life, Mr. Smyers was Manager at a Florida family office where he was responsible for investment analysis and execution of middle-market investments. Additionally, Mr. Smyers was a professional golfer and competed on the PGA Tour Latino America and Asian Tour. He holds a Bachelor of Science, in Finance from Barry University. Mr. Smyers was a member of the men’s golf team where he was a two-time National Champion and Academic & Athletic All-American.

Reshaping The Way Communities Think About Wellness

Mike Stoops is the President of Integrated Wellness Partners (IWP).  IWP, based in Akron, Ohio, offers a comprehensive, turnkey solution for the development, financing, and health and wellness center management needs of health systems, universities, and municipalities across the country.  With over 25+ years of experience as a Sports Medicine professional and Health and Wellness Center operator, Mike is a proven leader and expert in the industry.  In his current role, Mike is primarily responsible for directing and managing the business infrastructure of the IWP portfolio.  This is inclusive of direct operational oversight for all aspects of the centers.  Specifically, Mike delivers executive-level support and guidance to the operations teams related to Finance, Facilities, Materials Management, Human Resources, Compliance, Marketing and Sales, Customer Service, Programming, and other operationally related matters.  In addition, he is directly involved in the design, development, and construction phases of all projects from start to finish.

After earning his Master’s Degree in Human Physiology from the University of Akron, Mike became a Certified Athletic Trainer where he worked with several professional baseball organizations.  Shortly thereafter, he developed a particular focus in designing and developing Fitness, Wellness and Performance Centers.  He has since developed multiple centers across the country throughout his career.  Mike lives in Wadsworth, OH with his wife Abby and his four children Allie, Ryan, Jessica, and Jordyn.  In his spare time, you will find Mike trail running and mountain biking.

Director of Signet Capital

Where Old School Meets New School: How Ryan Helps Signet Clients Navigate The Complex Financial Waters

Ryan provides clients with debt and equity financing solutions placed through a multitude of traditional and non-traditional institutional lending services across a variety of property types and industry sectors.

Ryan’s Securities registrations include FINRA General Securities Representative (Series 7), FINRA Investment Banking Representative (Series 79), FINRA Uniform Securities Agent State Law (Series 63), and FINRA General Securities Principal (Series 24).

Greg Thornton manages all aspects of our supply chain operations and deploys strategic sourcing plans that place the company at a competitive advantage while supporting the overall growth of the company. He has devoted the majority of his career to the supply chain discipline and served several years as an operation manager for a start-up company. Prior to joining the Accufoam, he led teams that strategically sourced a broad portfolio of processed chemicals, energy, CAPEX, packaging, and various services supporting multiple sites across the US, Canada, and Mexico. His experience spans the specialty chemicals, mining, and food industries.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Georgia. In his free time, Greg enjoys golf, spending time with family, and exploring the great outdoors.

Senior Director of Marketing

Signet’s Brand Visionary & Inspired Voice

Audrey Wallace serves as Senior Director of Marketing for Signet, LLC where she creatively leads Signet’s marketing strategies. She artfully handles just about everything that pushes our brand’s voice into the modern era, including the execution of all new branding initiatives, creative production, digital/social marketing, website and collateral development, and agency management in support of the Signet Portfolio and diversified entities.

Audrey graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Baldwin-Wallace University.

Director of Marketing

Perspective & Planning: A Close Look At Where Ellie Thrives

Ellie Wilkinson serves as Director of Marketing for Signet LLC where she provides strategic and tactical marketing support through innovative creative direction, proactive project management, and insightful brand awareness of Signet’s portfolio companies and development projects. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Kent State University.

As Director of Residential Real Estate, Lisa assumes responsibility for the development, adaptation, and execution of policies, procedures, and programs aimed at optimizing performance around leasing, management, and maintenance of current and prospective student and market rate housing properties. Central to her role is the prioritization of addressing resident concerns and needs, alongside the strategic focus on driving NOI growth and value creation. Moreover, Lisa provides direct oversight to Property Managers across all market segments, ensuring cohesive leadership and alignment with organizational objectives.

Lisa holds a B.A. from The University of Akron.   

Sprayroq of China, Director of Business Development

Zack’s Background & What He Does Best

As Director of Business Development of Sprayroq of China, Zack is responsible for the oversight of day-to-day activities. Zack earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Chongqing Jinzhou University and a Ph.D in civil engineering from Louisiana Tech University. He is also a registered professional engineer in the state of Alabama.