Kurt May

Results-driven executive with extensive experience in business and operations management across finance, marketing, sales, engineering, and international supply chain. Delivered strategic planning for sustainable growth while fostering leadership development. Known for pragmatic leadership that transforms complex challenges into revenue-generating opportunities. International exposure spans Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.

• Elected to Beta Gamma Sigma international Business Academic Honor Society, top 5%
• Elected to Alpha Pi Mu national international Industrial Engineering Academic Honor Society, top 10%
• Thesis: Effective Integration of Robotic and Human Manufacturing Assets, 1978, based upon research conducted during residency at General Electric Aviation supplier Arwood Manufacturing Corporation, Tilton, New Hampshire
• Gene Tests for Psychiatric Risk Polarizes Researchers, Science Magazine, 01/01/08, 319

• Mayfair and Company, West Linn, OR, Chief Inspiration Officer, 01/01/17, Present, At Mayfair and Company, we founded the company to help create and sustain fair employment opportunities for artisans in 36 developing countries in SE Asia, Africa and Central and South America under the auspices of The World Fair Trade Federation standards and principles. In this way, we serve thousands of artisans, and tens of thousands of family/community members, by creating and sustaining job opportunities, educational advancement and community development while utilizing environmentally sound and sustainable practices, and safe working conditions in a relationship that is respectful of cultural practices.
• Psynomics Inc., La Jolla, CA, Co-Founder, Chief Executive Officer, Board Chair, 01/01/01, 01/01/19, Developed and commercialized molecular diagnostic/therapeutic prediction assays for neuropsychiatric diseases with emphasis of research assets on targeting novel therapies for central nervous system disorders. Developed business model and strategic go-to-market plan to meet set objectives in compliance with corporate rules and regulations. Negotiated and coordinated with attorneys and University of California Technology Transfer Office to patent technology and secure exclusive rights for commercial use. Secured appropriate capital and human and technological resources to support business growth. Funded primary research to extend technological advantage. Delivered executive-level leadership and guidance to enhance operational excellence. Championed the launch and growth of a start-up life sciences company spun out of UC San Diego through the collaboration of related workforces. Introduced and launched first-in market-segment assays; recognized in Science Magazine. Proactively identified investors and raised startup capital by establishing favorable relations and communications with the investment community and presenting a compelling plan. Triggered strong revenue growth and achieved positive cash flow through execution of profit optimization strategy. Successfully established matrixed office and laboratory facilities to support operational requirements. Negotiated and effected exit plan.
• International Stem Cell Corporation, Carlsbad, CA, President / Chief Operating Officer / Senior Vice President – International Mergers & Acquisitions / Consultant, 01/01/08, 01/01/13, Directed and monitored all corporate functions (except R&D) and held full P&L accountability. Recruited, hired, and supervised new CFO to enhance operational effectiveness, achieve audit compliance, and staff performance. Recognized for key contributions in establishing commercial operations and moving the company towards profitability by creating and executing strategic business plans. Created more successful and market-driven organization, increasing revenues from $0 to $9M in five years. Streamlined operations, reduced expenses, and addressed SOX deficiencies by identifying and implementing appropriate solutions. Significantly strengthened organizational readiness and capabilities.
• University of San Diego, San Diego, CA, Director - Master of Science in Executive Leadership Program & Lecturer, 01/01/09, 01/01/15, Managed all functions of Master of Science degree program, including planning and administration, faculty/curriculum development, learning outcomes assessment and financial performance. Held joint faculty appointments in USD’s graduate school of business administration and college of engineering. Significantly triggered revenue growth while turning around a failing program through the implementation of profit optimization strategy. Steered efforts in leading and motivating numerous young leaders during their career-making period while performing as an instructor in the MS, MBA, and engineering programs. Directed the creation and delivery of profitable custom executive education for corporate clients, while creating and directing USD’s Women Taking The Lead executive training program for female leaders.
• University of California San Diego Rady School of Management, La Jolla, CA, Assistant Dean, Director – Rady Center for Leadership Assessment, Development & Lecturer, 01/01/04, 01/01/09, Planned and created open enrollment/customized executive education programs through the utilization of university/global domain expertise. Delivered executive-level leadership and guidance to the staff of Rady Entrepreneurs Club; sponsored and judged intercollegiate business plan competitions to enhance operational excellence. Led the creation and operation of the Rady Center for Leadership Assessment and Development. Taught three-course capstone series in New Venture Creation to MBA students by utilizing advanced teaching techniques. Obtained superior ratings (4.87/5.0) and strong net promoter scores by students and faculty assessors. Achieved financial stability through aggressive marketing and collaboration with workforces.