Team
CEO
Ann Hand
Ann Hand is one of a handful of women who have risen to the top ranks of the energy industry. She most recently served as SVP of Global Brand Marketing and Innovation at BP, where she played a key role in making things “a little better” by developing new and compelling ways for consumers to engage with the BP brand, overseeing $300 million annually in marketing initiatives worldwide. Ann previously held the position of chief executive officer of the company’s Global Liquefied Petroleum Gas Business Unit where she had full P&L accountability across 15 countries, oversaw 3,000 employees and increased operating profit by 250-percent. As CEO of Project Frog, she is leveraging the company’s game-changing innovation to grow markets, develop new products and increase brand awareness for its industry-leading smart buildings. Ann is on a mission to revolutionize how buildings are built and redefine standards for how they perform…she intends to make the construction industry a lot better.
General Counsel
Margot Biehle
Margot Biehle gained extensive experience in corporate law and environmental legal policy through her work with start-up companies, corporate legal firms and not-for-profit organizations. Margot has served as an outside general counsel for early-stage start-ups including Salesforce.com (IPO 2004) and MetaTV (acquired by TV Works/Comcast). Prior to her startup experience, Margot practiced mergers and acquisitions law and securities litigation at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom in San Francisco. She left corporate law in 2002 to work for the Natural Resources Defense Council, where she helped protect the West’s diminishing water resources through the Western Water Project. Margot is a founding director of Emerge California, a Democratic women's political leadership training program, and serves as a member of the Marin Environmental Housing Collaborative. She formerly served as a member of the Executive Committee of the Sierra Club Marin Group for six years. Margot earned her BA from UCLA and her JD, magna cum laude, from the University of San Francisco.
Vice President of Business Development
Brian Holte
Brian Holte comes to Project Frog with over 20 years experience building teams and growing people to deliver results within the Building Materials and Manufacturing Technology Industry Sectors. Brian is adept at assessing market conditions and opportunities and aligning organizational resources to maximize revenue and profit in both mature as well as emerging markets. As Vice President, Business Development, Brian and his team work across all Project Frog functions to deliver our clients built environments that are better, greener, faster, and cheaper. Prior to joining Project Frog, Brian was Vice President and General Manager at James Hardie Building Products, Inc., responsible for sales, marketing, and manufacturing operations in Western U.S. and Canada—a $300 million business. Previously, Brian spent 17 years with Rockwell Automation having increasing levels of responsibility across all major corporate functions. Brian earned his MBA from USC, Marshall School of Business, and a BS in Industrial Technology, from the University of Wisconsin—Stout.
Vice President of Development
Brian Schroth
With more than a dozen years of experience in the real estate and construction industry, Brian Schroth brings to Project Frog expertise that encompasses all phases of the design-build process. He currently oversees all aspects of material procurement, manufacturing, logistics and on-site construction services. His team manages a complete turnkey solution for Project Frog buildings to be successfully deployed throughout the built environment. Brian also works closely with the Product Development team to streamline design and lower costs. Prior to joining the company, Brian served as vice president of construction for SIMEON Commercial Properties, a value-added commercial development company that has successfully financed and developed over 4 million square feet of office, warehouse, R&D and retail buildings. In his tenure, he managed over $135 million in construction projects, including LeapFROG Enterprise’s Campus, Kodak Gallery Headquarters, Larkspur Landing Shopping Center, the corporate headquarters for GreenPoint Mortgage Inc., Catalyst Bioscience and most recently 979 Broadway in Millbrae. Earlier in his career, Brian was a project manager for DTA, a general contractor that specializes in forensic investigation to identify and resolve construction defects, where he managed construction projects from litigation support through remediation and complete project rehabilitation.
Vice President of Program Development
Marijke Smit
Marijke Smit has focused her career around discovering and optimizing the nexus between people and their environments. For the past ten years, Marijke has worked with leading K-12, university, cultural and government institutions to help shape their change and leverage the potential of their built environments in support of their core customers and constituencies. Trained in history and urban planning at Columbia College and Columbia’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation, Marijke’s career has been influenced by a complex array of assignments, both large and small, in the U.S. and Asia. Her work is framed by a deep commitment to creating healthy, vibrant, and sustainable places and her success as a leader and innovator in her field landed her on Building Design + Construction Magazines’ 2008 “40 Under 40” list. Marijke comes to Project Frog from the innovative planning and consulting firm MKThink where she was Director of Planning. She is an avid urbanist, conservationist, biker, dancer and mother of two.
Vice President of Supply Chain
Ash Notaney
London born Ash Notaney resided in Sydney and New York City before joining Project Frog in San Francisco as Vice President of Supply Chain. Ash has an MBA from Columbia Business School and an undergrad degree in economics from Cambridge University. For over a decade he worked for global management consulting firm, Booz Allen Hamilton / Booz & Company, focusing on operations and revenue strategies for some of the world’s most well known companies, serving industries such as consumer products, retail, aerospace, and financial services. Ash is a vital member of the Frog team, working to establish strategic relationships with key suppliers to ensure our buildings are manufactured to the highest quality most efficiently. He excels at optimizing the end-to-end value chain and inspiring a revolution in how buildings are constructed.
Senior Director of Product Development
Evan Nakamura
Evan Nakamura brings a unique background and combination of talents from architecture and product development to Project Frog. As senior director of product development, Evan determines the vision, design and development of Frog’s innovative building solutions. He manages a team of designers and technical consultants, and oversees the product life cycle from concept through release to production. Prior to joining the company, Evan established the product design and development department at Chefs Catalog and launched their first exclusive product collection. As design manager for Williams Sonoma, Inc., Evan was integral in developing new products, leading brand strategy initiatives, managing product development teams, and directing manufacturing in domestic/global markets. Earlier in his career, Evan worked as an architect for over 12 years for several award-wining firms. Projects included educational, performing arts, residential and multi-family housing. Evan has a degree in Architecture from the University of California at Berkeley.
Director of Marketing
Nikki Tankursley
An integral member of the Project Frog team, Nikki Tankursley has shepherded the brand – and all of the company’s marketing initiatives – since inception. As director of marketing and company spokesperson, her expertise in strategic positioning for sustainable companies is helping the company expand its presence across multiple channels while bringing to light the need for – and viability of – smarter, greener construction. In addition to her marketing role, Nikki also manages the company’s preferred vendor network to help bring the best in green building products to the Frog platform. As the company grows, she will continue to drive Frog’s marketing program while overseeing new product launches such as Frog Zero, the company’s much lauded zero-net energy solution introduced in 2008. Prior to joining the company, Nikki honed her marketing, communications and business skills at notable architecture and consulting firm, MKThink, where she was responsible for client acquisition, targeting projects and developing relationships with key decision makers in industries centered around learning, healing, community and workplace. She developed and implemented successful marketing and PR campaigns for clients including Stanford Law School, the San Francisco Giants, Borel Private Bank, and several Silicon Valley venture capital firms. A native Texan, Nikki is dedicated to issues surrounding education and sustainability, and is involved in San Francisco groups such as LEAP.
Director of Strategy and Performance
Anne Gailliot
Good decisions are informed decisions. As a growing company in an emerging industry, Project Frog must constantly evaluate opportunities and navigate uncertainty. It’s Anne Gailliot’s responsibility to lead the analyses – strategic, financial, or organizational – that provide the key inputs to guide the decision-making process. She also develops tools and systems to improve company operations and enable Frog to effectively execute its business plan. Anne’s journey into the green building industry began during an earlier career in historic preservation – a field dedicated to recycling entire buildings. She spent several years at the National Trust for Historic Preservation managing grant programs, outreach programs, and special initiatives before returning to graduate school to pursue an MBA. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Anne earned a BA, cum laude, in Art History from Princeton University and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Director of Estimating
Dave Demaray, LEED AP
For every new project opportunity, the first question is: “What will it cost?” and Dave has the answer. He offers accurate estimates to each and every customer. At Project Frog, we believe the foundation of a successful project begins with establishing an precise budget and sticking to it. Dave has 20 years of general contracting experience with the bulk focusing on cost estimating. He served as VP of Estimating and also worked as a cost planning consultant. Dave honed his skills through extensive experience in all stages of cost planning from conceptual to hard bids for commercial, retail and public projects including, schools, hospitals, student housing and federal office buildings. Dave is particularly skilled at managing the cost planning and estimating aspects of Frog buildings. When he is not immersed in cost models, Dave enjoys time with his family and surfing.
Director of Architecture
John Jackson
John Jackson brings to Project Frog over 15 years of experience working as a Project Architect at several award winning design firms. He has successfully completed numerous projects from concept design through construction. Pairing a thorough knowledge of the technical side of construction detailing and project approvals processes with a rigorous pursuit of excellence in environmentally responsible design, John has been an integral team member in developing Project Frog's products as well as seeing through its successful deployment in the field. A natural collaborator and problem solver, John works closely with our customers and their consultants to help them tailor the Frog product to suit their specific needs. John has a Masters of Architecture from Tulane University and is a licensed Architect in the State of California.
Director, Product Development
Ted Colburn
A born inventor, Ted Colburn has 18 patents to his name and brings a wealth of creativity and product design experience to Project Frog. Ted’s design experience ranges from medical devices and telephones to RFID credit card scanners. Before joining the company, Ted most recently served as the lead mechanical designer at ViVOtech Inc. where he designed RFID credit card readers frequently seen at fast food restaurants, movie theaters and retail environments. On the lighter side, Ted is vice president of Under Development, Inc, where he created the world-famous product The Beerbelly™ and Winerack™, featured on CNN, the TODAY show, Jay Leno and many mainstream magazines including Playboy, FHM and Maxim. Ted began his career in product design working at PATH, an international non-profit organization focused on promoting health in the Third World and developing advanced technologies for low-resource settings. At PATH, he designed and developed several products including a device configured for visual inspection of the cervix, a novel contraceptive diaphragm, and a needle-less hypodermic jet injector. Ted has a degree in Fine Arts from Colorado State University. Additional course work in engineering, materials, and attending a Stanford University Emerging Entrepreneurs in Biomedical Technology workshop enables Ted to think “outside the box”.
Marketing Coordinator
Ashley Camps
Ashley Camps was captivated by the Project Frog’s mission and the team’s drive at the United States Green Building Council Greenbuild Expo 2008 and she followed the Frog family across the country, taking a position as Marketing Coordinator. Ashley graduated from Colby College with a B.A. in Sociology with a concentration in Environmental Studies; she has experience in advertising as well as directing an office for Environmental Activists. With this combination, she brings passion, creativity and knack for generating interest and excitement in others. Her goal is to show the world that Project Frog is the way of the future. She lives to embody the brand, whether it is in the office, exploring the mountains, relaxing ocean-side, or at a local gallery or musical event.
Project Architect, Product Development
Michaela Chlouba, AIA, LEED AP BD+C
People spend over 90% of their lives inside buildings—so why not make them wonderful?! Míša has spent the last 11+ years in the architecture industry managing and designing high profile projects from conceptual design to construction completion. Her portfolio includes core, shell and interiors works for both public and private sector clients with an emphasis on sustainable design. She maintains a reputation for successful project delivery with on time and on budget results. Her outreach efforts include giving education presentations and her history of speaking engagements includes accepted invitations from Bloomberg News and the Urban Land Institute. Her call of duty also extends to forensic work consulting on cases relating to code compliancy and construction defects. In addition to a degree from Cornell University, Michaela holds both her Architecture license and Real Estate License in California. Prior to joining Project Frog, she was an Associate at Studios Architecture. As an avid road cyclist, she can often be found riding miles on her bike in search of the perfect pastry.
Product Designer
Thomas Deckert
As an industrial product designer, Thomas Deckert works to improve the performance and capability of Project Frog's building system. With a meticulous attention to detail, Thomas creates and refines communication tools that translate a design idea into an easily understood and accurately implemented solution. An eager team-player, Thomas brings passion and enthusiasm to every task, whether he is finding new ways to streamline the building industry, solving problems around the office, or leading an after-hours karaoke championship.
Architect
Courtenay Dill Glander, AIA
Courtenay is integral in helping our clients create their perfect Frog. She has 14 years of design expertise in high-end residential, mixed use and hospitality work. It is her passion to create buildings with a masterful balance of form and function while striving to be sustainable that led her to Project Frog. Searching for a smarter alternative to regular construction, Courtenay has found a home here at Project Frog where she works to continually improve the product and application. She is dedicated to guiding our clients to realize the infinite possibilities available with the Frog platform and helps to create an optimal building for their use. Courtenay is a licensed Architect in the State of California, as well as the Young Architect Director of Emerging Professional Committee the AIASF chapter. She holds Bachelor of Architecture for California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.
Project Manager
David FitzGerald, BS CE, LEED AP
Both pragmatic and creative, David has been involved in the construction and engineering industry for over 20 years. He has managed large public works projects, airports, smart transit, water treatment plants, high-performance schools, and numerous green building and alternative energy projects. Early on in his career, fresh out of engineering school, David decided to first work within the trades to see things get built from the inside out, then worked as a field inspector, and quickly evolved in to construction management roles. David brings this wide breadth of building experience with him to Project Frog and having been part of the traditional construction process, he sees great potential for change. Also informed by the other side of his brain, David has dabbled in art and music since childhood. By his very nature, he is well versed in establishing a steady rhythm while pushing the limits of innovation and creativity. From get-go David was drawn to Project Frog’s building ethos – let’s build something green, sensible and creative that will truly inspire people with its beauty and simplicity.
Architect, Product Development
Jason Kohler, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP
Prior to joining Project Frog, Jason Kohler worked in the office of Michelle Kaufmann, where he focused on custom modular residential projects and experienced firsthand the advantages of the pre-fabricated delivery method. Jason brings his enthusiasm for architecture and interest in technology and building to Project Frog. Having lived in the Bay Area since 2003, Jason was drawn to Project Frog for its innovations in sustainable building technology. Jason grew up outside of Chicago and has long been influenced by the city's great tradition in modern architecture. Jason received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from Iowa State University and is a registered architect in California.
Controller
Fernando Mazzuca
Fernando brings to Project Frog over 15 years of experience in finance and accounting from IT, consulting, and architecture firms, both here in the U.S. and in his native Argentina. He is skilled in developing analytic models and identifying the right accounting structures and reporting needs to provide the key tools for informed decision-making. Fernando plays an integral role in helping Project Frog transition from a young start-up to a thriving early-stage company by implementing and enforcing policies and procedures to ensure compliance and scalable growth. Even though numbers and analytical thinking have been the common denominator throughout his career, his equal passion for psychology and leadership development led him to earn a Masters Degree in Consciousness Studies. This combination of hard- and soft-management skills allows Fernando to add to the collaborative, creative and innovative atmosphere that defines Project Frog’s culture. In addition to being a dynamic member of the Frog team, Fernando is a loving father to his two beautiful children and Frog’s soccer team’s secret weapon.
Project Manager
Teddy Mekuria, LEED AP
A native of Colorado, Teddy Mekuria, LEED AP, brings a broad knowledge base to Project Frog and plays an important role on the implementation team. He works closely with architects, supply chain, and product development to help deliver projects on time and under budget. He is a graduate of the University of Colorado in Civil Engineering with a concentration in construction management and business administration. Teddy enjoys snowboarding, biking, and is looking forward to leading Project Frog's soccer team to victory.
Sales Associate
Dan Miller
Originally from Ohio, Dan brought some of the Midwest charm to the Bay Area in 2009. In his current role as Sales Associate, he’s working to grow and manage new project opportunities for Project Frog. Dan previously worked in Business Development at BuildSite, an online construction materials database and submittal software provider based in Oakland. During that time, he was able to work with a wide range of professionals in the construction industry, from manufacturers and distributors to subcontractors and builders. Dan was immediately drawn to Project Frog by the passion shared by the entire Frog team, their dedication to push the envelope in building efficiency, and their “We can do it better, greener, faster” rally cry. A dedicated vegan, Dan believes in lowering the environmental impact of everyday choices, from our diets to our construction practices. In his free time, Dan is an avid sports fan, amateur runner, and animal lover who enjoys exploring the great restaurants that San Francisco has to offer.
Product Design Engineer
Ryan Olson
A former software engineer turned product designer, Ryan Olson does all he can to maximize the product design team's geek quotient. Ryan specializes in parametric 3D modeling and advanced design visualization, as well as overseeing the implementation of key design technologies, including CAD and product lifecycle management (PLM) platforms. His previous design experience ranges from crystal glassware to explosives detection systems. Coming to Project Frog after teaching product design at San Francisco State University, Ryan believes that the building industry can be made more efficient and sustainable with the introduction of modern product manufacturing tools and methodologies. Ryan has a degree in Science, Technology and Society from Pomona College, and a master's in design from San Francisco State University.
Business Analyst
Graham Pingree
Graham Pingree spent his early career in finance, but returned to business school to follow his interest in the intersection of innovation, sustainability and entrepreneurship. This focus brought him to Project Frog in 2009 as an MBA intern where he spent his summer modeling scale efficiency with the supply chain team. Graham was sold on one day returning to Project Frog after one particularly heated office dice game on the very first week of his internship. In 2010, he rejoined Project Frog full time to work with senior management in a strategic and analytical capacity. Graham began his career in the investment field, first as in investment consulting for endowed nonprofits and later on the investment team of a venture capital fund-of-funds, working in both San Francisco and London. Born and raised in Boston, Graham has an undergraduate degree in economics from Williams College and an MBA from the Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley.
Supply Chain and Sustainability Engineer
Desi Shunturova
Driven by her degrees in Environmental Studies from Middlebury College and Civil Engineering from Columbia University, Desi found Project Frog to be the ideal platform for exploring her two great passions: sustainability and the built environment. Taking the role of a Supply Chain and Sustainability Engineer, she strives to constantly improve the performance of Frog buildings with innovative and optimal technology in order to deliver cutting-edge green building solutions. Her background in the clean-tech and the engineering industries from her experience at Lucid Design Group and The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, in addition to her understanding of energy modeling and building performance monitoring, makes Desi a valuable member of our team. Outside Frog, Desi enjoys the outdoors, biking, traveling and learning about foreign cultures.
Design Associate
Molly Street
Educated in interior design and art history, Molly Street came to Project Frog after a working in residential design. A lover of furniture, her modern twist on the classic Adirondack chair won her acclaim at the Multiplicity Show in New York, where she was chosen from a field of 300 furniture designers to display her latest creation. After a cross-country bike ride opened her eyes to the need for inspiring, affordable green design she walked into the frog office bringing fresh ideas and a new perspective to the firm. With her background in design, Molly works with our clients to determine building finishes, programming and creates creative collateral to support our brand goals. When she is not in the office or on the job site, she stays busy running marathons and searching, with skis on her back, for the endless winter.