Jill started at Bead in 2007 as Financial Controller and was promoted to Corporate President in 2014 and CEO in 2018. She holds a B.S. in Business from the University of Vermont and a Master of Science from Champlain College. She serves on the boards of CBIA, ManufactureCT and Bridgeport Hospital and is a member of Vistage and Women in Manufacturing. Jill enjoys golfing, skiing, live music and watching her boys play soccer.
Dan joined Bead in 2024, bringing 30 years of diverse manufacturing experience. Throughout his career, he has successfully led teams in operations, product line management, engineering, and customer service. At Bead, Dan is responsible for overseeing manufacturing processes and facilities, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness. Dan enjoys spending quality time with his family, occasionally indulging in golf, searching for his elusive golf ball with a smile.
Gerardo joined Bead in 2018 with 20+ years of experience generating revenue growth through innovative selling strategies. He previously held sales positions at interconnect companies such as TE Connectivity, Autosplice, and Sanmina Cable Assy Division. In his free time, Gerardo enjoys staying active while spending time with his family.
Nick started as an intern in October 2022 and joined Bead full-time in 2023. In addition to supervising the toolroom, Nick troubleshoots and repairs machinery/equip, implements automation needs, and improves technical processes. Nick served for 5 years in the United States Marine Corps. He holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Quinnipiac University. In his free time, he enjoys tinkering and competitive shooting.
Trent joined Bead in 2022 as a Tool & Die Maker. Prior to Bead, he started as an apprenticeship in 2011 and moved from Rockford, IL to Milford, CT in 2017. At Bead, Trent developed his technical expertise and was promoted to Production Supervisor in 2024, where he oversees and improves production processes on the shop floor. When not working, Trent enjoys going to the gym, bowling and spending time with his wife and two kids.
Kristen joined Bead in 2015 with 10+ years of experience in public accounting at CohnReznick as an audit manager. Kristen holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Masters of Science in Accounting from UConn. She is a certified public accountant. In her free time, Kristen loves to watch her kids play baseball and go to the beach.
David joined Bead in 2011 with 40+ years of experience in metal forming design and manufacturing. He previously held leadership positions in both the engineering and business sectors. At Bead, David guides new product development and the implementation of new manufacturing technology. In his free time, David plays ice hockey.
Sara Fradette joined Bead in April 2021. She communicates with our customers daily and works with the production team to ensure alignment. Sara received an MBA in Strategic Leadership from the University of New Haven in 2021. In her free time, she likes to hike with her husband and her dog.
Jess Valentino joined Bead in December 2021. She started as an intern and worked to improve shipping operations. Jess transitioned to full-time in June 2022. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering from the University of New Haven. Jess communicates with Bead's suppliers and assists with continuous improvement projects. In her free time, she likes to cheer on her former UNH field hockey team and spend time with family in New York.
Robert joined Bead in 2024 with 7+ years of both inside and outside sales experience in multiple manufacturing industries. He works closely with customers to help support business development and sales growth. Robert holds an MBA and a BS in Business Management from the University of New Haven. In his free time, he likes to spend time with family and cheer on the New York Yankees and New England Patriots.
