Jim Kiser, Global CEO of capSpire, brings over 30 years of experience in building high-performing teams and organizations that tackle some of the world’s most complex energy and commodity challenges. With a distinguished career at industry-leading software and consulting firms such as SAP and Deloitte, Jim has honed a passion for guiding companies in establishing their brands, defining markets, and crafting strategies that drive global scale.
Jim is a firm believer in the power of relationships as the cornerstone of both successful business and fulfilling personal lives. He is dedicated to setting a clear vision and empowering individuals to reach their highest potential. His experience includes growing companies like SolArc and FuelQuest, as well as serving on the boards of nonprofits including Habitat for Humanity and the Women’s Energy Network.
Outside of his professional commitments, Jim is an avid father and outdoorsman, committed to fitness through activities such as running a ranch, skiing, running and embracing the outdoors.
Jeff Hardcastle is capSpire’s co-founder, COO, and board member. Jeff began his career at SolArc, a commodity trading and risk management software company, where he spent eleven years responsible for quality assurance and project management, and then software development and architecture. With a vision for a people-focused consulting company that could help energy and commodity trading businesses implement and realize value from software investments, in 2009 Jeff co-founded capSpire. Jeff leads with an empathetic mindset and an emphasis on long-term client relationships and helps capSpire make decisions that embody the company’s values. Jeff earned a B.S. in Industrial Engineering from the University of Arkansas.
William Chen, Chief Financial Officer at capSpire, has more than 20 years of experience helping companies achieve objectives across operations, strategy, M&A, capital markets, FP&A, and accounting functions. Specifically, William has over a decade of specialized experience in portfolio company operations, working with and liaising between management and sponsors to deliver value creation strategies and investment theses. Moreover, he has executed ~$40B of M&A and capital market transactions in his career across an array of industries. William is a strong believer in flexibility and adaptability, combining data and storytelling to make an impact. In his personal time, William enjoys spending time with his family, as well as basketball, fishkeeping, and comedy.
Rich O’Keefe, Chief Revenue Officer, has been dedicated to clients, prospects, and customers for more than 35 years. With 30 years in the ETRM/CTRM space, Rich has experience running major sales organizations, partnerships, and regions, including APAC, Europe, and the Americas. He has worked with IBM, OpenLink, and DXC. Rich views himself as a mentor and sounding board for advice and ideas. He helps customers solve complex problems and employees grow in their careers. Rich is a graduate of Northeastern University in Boston and the University of Edinburgh MBA in Scotland. He has lived on four continents and enjoys traveling and skiing. You may find him volunteering at the local animal shelter when not at capSpire because, in addition to being a people person, Rich loves dogs.
Regional Leadership: North America
Cathy Hughes, Managing Partner, North America, has dedicated 29 years to her career in professional services and operational leadership, focusing on collaboration and proactivity to set internal and client teams up for success. At capSpire, Cathy aims to build strong client and partner relationships to develop highly effective teams and attainable excellence. When she’s not at work, Cathy is cheering her kids on the basketball court, cooking for friends and family, and mastering the perfect margarita.
Jaydeep Shah, Partner, has dedicated more than 23 years of service spanning diverse sectors of the energy industry. Jaydeep has oversight of our RightAngle and Digital practices in North America. Jaydeep is well versed in leading large transformational CTRM initiatives with tight budgets and delivering strong results. Jaydeep believes in leading by example and trusting the team. His deep industry/system knowledge along with ability to converse with top executives at summary level make him uniquely qualified. Combining this with an easy going personality means Jaydeep is able to foster long term relationships and loyalty among his clients and employees. In terms of education, Jaydeep holds a Master of Science in Computer Science from University of Houston and an MBA in Finance & Energy from Rice University. Outside of work, Jaydeep enjoys reading mystery novels, watching football, practicing yoga & meditation and spending time with family and friends.
Larry Loocke, Partner, has dedicated 22 years to the oil and gas industry, focusing the last 15 years on ETRM. At capSpire, Larry specializes in system selection, project management, organizational change, and overall delivery for enterprise software projects. Larry is passionate about keeping at the forefront of the ever-evolving ETRM industry, staying current on vendors, their support solutions, and what markets they serve, so he can help clients make efficient, informed decisions. Larry also believes in recognizing his strong team and the value they deliver to clients. At home, Larry and his family care for a menagerie of animals on their ranch and enjoy theatre, sports, hunting, and fishing. Larry is sometimes spotted drinking coffee from his #1 Dad mug.
Rusty Robeson, Partner, has 16 years of experience in the ETRM space, often leading projects by seeing the bigger picture and ensuring all individual efforts form holistic business solutions. Rusty has deep knowledge of front office, lease, scheduling, and risk domains, with a focus on process optimization and automation. Non-linear thinking has allowed Rusty to quickly assess and understand problems faced in projects to bring swift, creative solutions. As a leader, Rusty trusts and empowers his team towards success. When not at work, Rusty sews bags using the industrial sewing machines in his basement. He also woodworks, fly fishes, camps, hikes, and backpacks.
Donna Oveson, Managing Director, brings more than 30 years of experience in the energy sector to capSpire, specializing in leading implementation teams for large-scale ETRM solutions. Donna has worked on the client side within the energy industry, implementing RightAngle and an array of software systems to meet clients’ goals and drive benefits for their businesses. Donna enjoys creating a collaborative environment where employees can grow and reach their full potential. With clients, she works to build long-standing trusted relationships to ensure strong partnerships. Outside of work, Donna enjoys volunteering as a Child Advocate for Ft Bend CASA, gardening, reading, and traveling.
Nicole deBoer, Managing Director, brings over 23 years of expertise in the energy sector, including 17 years specializing in C/ETRM system support and implementations. As a practice lead, she oversees teams delivering innovative solutions to complex challenges in organizational design, business processes, controls, and IT strategy. As a certified facilitator, Nicole has led client workshops, professional development programs, and leadership training sessions. Nicole’s knowledge spans the commodity transaction lifecycle across power, natural gas, renewables, and agriculture. She is skilled in driving agility and efficiency in the evolving commodity and energy trading landscape through transformative system implementations and process design. She is passionate about developing the next generation of talented leaders and empowering professionals at all levels to elevate their performance. Nicole is also an Energy Risk Professional (ERP), certified by the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) and previously sat on the GARP Steering Committee in Calgary.
Outside of work, Nicole enjoys reading biographies and history books, watching hockey and exploring nature through travel and hiking with her husband.
Arpan Gutgutia, Managing Director, has nearly two decades of experience in technology, implementation, and support services, with 18 years focused on ETRM. Arpan is passionate about creating impact by fostering a collaborative, high-performance culture where every team member has the tools and support to excel. Clients describe Arpan as a trusted, solutions-driven partner who understands their unique needs and goes above and beyond to help them succeed. Arpan’s strategic and pragmatic approach helps him solve complex challenges with creative, tailored solutions. Outside of capSpire, Arpan spends time with his children and enjoys badminton and pool. He also loves cooking for family and friends, but don’t expect him to follow a recipe.
Mike Strickland leads capSpire’s North American Advisory Consulting team and brings over 15 years of experience in the commodities sector. He specializes in consulting engagements focused on driving large-scale transformational change within the energy and agriculture industries, with particular expertise in process optimization and technology roadmaps. Prior to his current role at capSpire, Mike held several positions at Cargill, including roles in corporate credit and the petrochemical trading sector, where he gained valuable, hands-on industry experience. His extensive background enables him to provide strategic guidance and deliver impactful solutions for clients navigating complex business and technological challenges. Outside of work, Mike enjoys fishing, boating, Minnesota sports teams, and hunting for golf balls on the golf course.
Jose Carlos Dos Santos, Principal Consultant and Openlink Practice Lead at capSpire, brings over 16 years of expertise in C/ETRM solutions and a decade of experience as a software engineer. He has a proven track record of designing and implementing innovative software solutions, leveraging advanced development methodologies and tools to optimize system performance and business outcomes. Specializing in solution architecture, system implementation, and development for CTRM projects, Jose has extensive experience with Openlink/Findur systems, particularly in the Natural Gas, Power, and Agriculture sectors. His technical expertise, combined with a collaborative and knowledge-sharing approach, makes him a trusted advisor to colleagues and clients alike. Committed to fostering innovation and problem-solving, Jose is passionate about mentoring teams and driving successful project outcomes. He holds certifications in SAP ABAP and Sitecore Professional Development and has earned an MBA in Information Technology, with a second MBA in Leadership and Change Management currently in progress. Outside of work, Jose enjoys soccer, working out, and traveling.
Bhuvan Sethi is a highly experienced technology leader specializing in digital transformation and strategic planning. With more than 19 years of global experience in the energy and commodities sectors across both Asia and North America, Bhuvan is the Digital Practice Lead at capSpire where he is responsible for advancing innovation, streamlining operations, and providing tailored solutions to address clients’ ever-evolving business challenges. Throughout his career, Bhuvan has successfully led the design and implementation of large-scale enterprise solutions, including RightAngle, robotic process automation (RPA), and advanced business intelligence platforms. Bhuvan is an advocate for team-building and mentorship, fostering collaboration and innovation among his teams to drive long-term value for clients through innovative and impactful strategies. Outside of work, Bhuvan enjoys mixology and hiking, finding both a creative outlet and a way to connect with nature.
Daysi Rodriguez, People Services Director, has specialized in human resources management and leadership, focusing on leadership, HR strategy, operations, and employee relations for more than 10 years. Daysi has held both technical and operational roles, focused on developing strategies that support organizational growth and employee satisfaction. Daysi is passionate about employee engagement within a supportive and inclusive environment and genuine people-centric leadership. She believes in being authentic in how she treats and communicates with employees. In her free time, Daysi is with her family taking road trips, playing board games, and watching movies.
Regional Leadership: Europe & International
Dave Webb, Managing Partner International at capSpire, brings over 25 years of experience to global energy and commodity clients to solve their most complex process and technology challenges. Dave has developed a strong track record of helping businesses optimize operations, improve profitability, and navigate complex industry challenges. His leadership focuses on driving strategic growth, fostering long-term client relationships, and cultivating a culture of excellence within the firm. Dave is passionate about continuous learning, staying on top of industry trends, and leveraging emerging technologies to create value for clients. Away from the office, Dave enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching sports, and traveling.
Gaurav Garg, Managing Partner, has been leading international teams in improving the quality and effectiveness of organizational trading and digital technology landscapes for more than 21 years. Gaurav has expertise across change management, complex project management, and organizational transformation, with a focus on domain and technology. With a deep understanding of client needs and expectations, and strong technical and communication skills, Gaurav develops and implements effective strategies to support customer satisfaction. Gaurav is proud to create a positive, inclusive, and collaborative environment where capSpirians can develop and expand their capabilities to drive more value for customers. Outside of work, Gaurv enjoys building large-scale LEGO sets with his 2 sons, playing cricket, and cooking.
Hilda Wong
Hilda Wong, Managing Director, Singapore, brings more than 25 years of experience in the energy and commodities space, specializing in risk management, trading, systems, and processes in emerging and new markets. She has worked across the globe, delivering solutions and value to customers scaling new business lines in Toronto, New York, Calgary, Houston, and London. Hilda believes in creating a collaborative environment as a business partner, leading with a strategic vision, and building international and long-term customer relationships. Away from the office, Hilda enjoys culinary travels around Asia, golfing, and spending time with her family and dogs.
Robert Parker, Managing Partner, has over 25 years of experience in technology and ETRM/CTRM systems. Rob has a proven record of bringing capSpire and client delivery teams together in a collaborative partnership to successfully deliver projects. Having worked for public and private sectors in client engaging, vendor facing and client facing roles in demanding environments Rob understands what is expected from all stakeholders and works to ensure all parties are engaged and requirements understood.
With 17 years of Allegro functional and technical implementation experience across multiple commodities Rob has a unique knowledge of the Allegro platform and has delivered enterprise level solutions that solve complex business problems with over 60 clients located in over 15 countries across the EU, APAC and NA regions. In his free time, Robert is passionate about technology, Formula 1, and fishing.
Ken Twomey, Director of Advisory, Europe at capSpire has 17 years of experience strategically leading businesses across wholesale energy and investment banking industries, including power, gas, LNG, wider commodity trading, and operations. Ken’s specialty is business and technology change, with a particular focus on trading IT architecture, solution design, system selection, and project delivery of large-scale implementations. Ken builds trust and strong relationships with clients to support strategic guidance, innovative solutions, and support in navigating complex challenges. He is also deeply committed to fostering an environment where his team members can thrive through sharing knowledge and providing opportunities for personal development. Ken believes that staying curious and committed to continuous learning is essential. Outside of work, Ken teaches his children to ride horses and enjoys running and sea swimming.
Dale Emmerson, Managing Director, has 30 years of experience in global energy and commodity markets. Dale delivers step-change growth for clients, working across complex organizations to engage with senior stakeholders and deliver strategic and meaningful change. With expertise across the full deal life cycle, Dale has witnessed the evolution of the ETRM/CTRM sector and brings expertise across markets, technologies, and end-to-end business operations. Dale brings clarity of vision to complex problems for simplicity and clear communication. In his free time, Dale enjoys life drawing and painting, climbing mountains, and exploring new cities.
Jeric Macalintal, Managing Director, leads capSpire’s Australia and New Zealand operations. With over 15 years of experience in electricity trading, energy risk management, and ETRM project implementations, Jeric assists organizations in managing business transformations and implementing technology to achieve their strategic goals. He believes in helping his team develop and refine their skills to efficiently solve their clients’ most complex challenges. Jeric is passionate about energy and risk and using his knowledge and experience to deliver value to his clients. Outside of work, Jeric likes to spend time playing golf and basketball.
Clare Annis, Director of International Human Resources, brings over 15 years of progressive HR experience to capSpire. Responsible for the architecture and implementation of strategic initiatives, Clare aligns HR’s operations with capSpire’s vision across all functions, attracting top talent, fostering engagement, and building high-performing teams around the globe. Through authentic leadership and inclusive practices, with a balance of empathy and strategic focus, Clare cultivates an environment where individuals and teams reach their highest potential and deliver measurable impact. Clare is inspired by travel and treasures spending time with her family.
