Meet the Team
We are proud to have a talented management team with more than 200 years of combined experience across various industries and asset classes –our knowledge and expertise are at the disposal of our portfolio companies 24/7/365.
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President & CEO
Tom has over 35 years of experience founding, building, and investing in world-class companies in a variety of markets. Tom launched the Refuge Group to support another generation of entrepreneurs and provide the guidance that new business leaders require as they navigate early-stage business development.
As President and CEO of Refuge Group, Tom works with each business leader to develop annual operating plans, oversees each business’s strategic direction, and ensures compliance with industry regulations. Tom has a proven track record of managing and overcoming complex global business challenges. His primary focus is utilizing his experience and wisdom to help entrepreneurs clarify their company’s vision while working with their teams to achieve specific company objectives.
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Chief Financial Officer, Refuge Group
Ashley Chambliss is a dedicated accounting professional with a rich history of accomplishments both inside and outside of Refuge Group businesses. With a strong educational background, extensive professional experience, and a deep commitment to community service, Ashley has proven herself as an unparalleled leader and a compassionate advocate.
As the Chief Financial Officer of Refuge Group, Ashley is responsible for the financial health of the organization. Ashley and her team closely manage the firm’s annual budget and results and ensure that all financial reporting is accurate and timely. She also supports portfolio businesses with special projects and guides partners as they establish critical financial management processes.
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Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer (Transportation Operations)
Mike Ford brings over two decades of financial leadership and expertise to his role as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Refuge Group’s transportation businesses –GC Transports, Quality Transport Services, and LeFleur Limousines. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Ford has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to financial stewardship and strategic leadership. His expertise has left an indelible mark on the organizations he has served, and his dedication to operational efficiency and fiscal responsibility continues to be the driving force behind Refuge Group’s transportation vertical.
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Chief Technology Officer
Rob Nethery is the Chief Technology and Security Officer of the Refuge Group. He is a distinguished Information Technology Executive, Solutions Architect, and Lead Programmer/Analyst with a remarkable career spanning over two decades. His responsibilities encompass everything from user requirement assessments to practical solution recommendations and the enhancement of company-wide technology capabilities. Rob is not only a seasoned leader with a profound understanding of IT operations, but also a mentor who actively guides development, IT operations, and IT services teams for each of the Refuge Portfolio companies.
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Chief Operating Officer
Jana has successfully developed and implemented innovative business processes across the public and private space for more than 30 years. In her role as Chief Operating Officer, she creates clear, efficient procedures that facilitate smooth operations across the wholly owned businesses of the Refuge Group. Additionally, she works to ensure that Refuge Group’s functional shared services departments deliver outstanding value for portfolio companies and partners.
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Vice President, Contracted Services
Trey manages all contract-based portfolio investments for the Refuge Group. He has over a decade of experience managing government contracts in Mississippi, Texas, Louisianna, the US Virgin Islands, and West Virginia. Trey is a results-oriented professional that prioritizes adding value to clients through innovative, forward-thinking solutions. He prioritizes on-budget, on-time performance and showcases a commitment to delivery that has made him an expert at driving program administration, process development, and change management goals for leading government and business institutions. Trey is the primary contact for business leaders and entrepreneurs that are interested in focusing their business on delivering solutions for government clients.
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General Counsel
Kendall Moore is General Counsel of Refuge Group and related companies. He advises and supports the leaders of the various portfolio companies as they structure their organizations, raise capital, and navigate complicated regulatory environments.
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Vice President, Risk Management
Christy has successfully developed and implemented a detailed operating model for industry associations that drives growth, enhances member experiences, and strengthens relationships. She is a dynamic professional whose extensive experience working with associations and franchise organizations is matched only by her commitment to excellence and innovation. Christy serves as the Refuge Group’s foremost expert on creating, managing, and growing a sales-oriented, risk-sensitive culture.
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Manager, Administrative Services
As the lead administrator of the Refuge Group, Pam Crusoe stands at the forefront of the organization’s accomplishments. Within the company, her stellar reputation is built upon her exceptional eye for detail, unwavering attentiveness, and unmatched professionalism. Pam’s meticulous approach guarantees that every project proceeds with precision, minimizing errors and maximizing operational efficiency. Her keen attentiveness means she not only listens intently but also excels in effective communication, which in turn fosters seamless interactions within the organization and with external partners.
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Producer, Higginbotham Insurance
Jay Jernigan is the driving force behind the growth and development of association/affinity groups at Refuge Group. With a focus on strategy and execution, Jay collaborates closely with partners to create membership-based organizations for diverse industries. He excels in cultivating strong partnerships, fostering product innovation, and implementing strategic sales plans to fuel enrollment and revenue growth. As a leader at Refuge Group, Jay oversees team development, conducts insightful market analysis, and manages budgets to ensure effective organizational development. Bringing a wealth of experience, Jay plays a pivotal role in shaping and expanding current associations while driving the growth of insurance offerings in collaboration with Higginbotham.
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Vice President, Corporate Development
Caleb heads the corporate development function of the Refuge Group and is responsible for managing the firm’s portfolio. He provides expertise in selecting, monitoring, and optimizing investments to achieve the best possible returns while minimizing risk. Caleb collaborates closely with portfolio companies to define their growth strategies, operational plans, and financial goals.
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Director, Accounting Services
Karen Falgout holds the position of Director of Accounting Services at the Refuge Group, where her primary focus is on delivering precise and timely financial reporting. Karen ensures that clients, partners, and portfolio companies have the essential financial information they need for well-informed decision-making. Her role encompasses the oversight of recurring financial operations and providing valuable guidance in financial management.
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Director, Human Resources
With a deep passion for people, Jynger heads Refuge Group’s Human Resources department, specializing in a wide array of people-related functions. This includes HRIS implementation and customization, performance management and coaching, employee benefits, and fostering organizational culture. She partners with business leaders to understand their needs and delivers incredibly specialized solutions to fit their unique requirements.
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Manager, Call Center Services
Estella Johnson is the Call Center Operations Manager for the Refuge Group. She leads the day-to-day operations of the Customer service and Dispatching center for the transportation businesses. Estella provides training, coaching, development, and feedback to her team and conducts effective communication while maintaining a customer-oriented mindset. Estella fosters positive morale within her team while making sure that quality customer service is a priority.
