Leadership Team
Christien Ducker
Chief Executive Officer & Founder
Christien has worked 25+ years in the software sector, with the majority of them in QHSE systems. With experience working on both sides of the Atlantic, Christien understands the nuances of safety and business culture. She has successfully brought two European Enterprise QHSE systems into the USA and led Safety Management Systems through its immense growth.
Keith Augustyn
Chief Operating Officer
Keith leverages over two decades of expertise and executive leadership experience in the Software-as-a-Service industry to lead his dynamic team of professionals at Safety Management Systems. Most notably, Keith has gained invaluable expertise and experience in global information services and SaaS platforms through building and managing teams in Asia Pacific and Europe. Keith received his bachelor’s degree in business administration and accounting from Rider University. He is highly respected for his strengths in operations, executive leadership, finance, and business development.
Caroline Sharpless
VP, Marketing
Caroline Sharpless graduated with a degree in Integrated Marketing Communications after studying at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, and London, England. She expanded her knowledge of marketing strategy and graphic design by working for nonprofits, start-ups, and global media conglomerates. On top of her professional experience, she has dedicated many hours to philanthropic work which has made her very passionate about the safety and security of others.
Mary Dunlap
VP, Customer Relations
Safety has been a key component in Mary's work culture since her first job in Operations. She has worked in Business Development for over 20 years. Mary believes that relationships play a vital role in not only the sales process but in the success of any organization.
Jason Adam
VP, Fleet Services
With over 17 years of fleet service experience within the transportation industry, Jason is highly skilled in process management and identifying operational improvements as related to fleet financials, safety, operational efficiency and culture. He is Smith System trained and knowledgeable with ATA guidelines, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and OSHA General Industry Regulations.
Phil Defina
VP, Business Development
Phil has over 14 years of QHSE software industry experience in enterprise-level, software solution Sales, Global Implementations & OSHA compliance across multiple industry sectors. Phil has been with Safety Management Systems, Inc. since 2015 and holds a Bachelor’s degree from New York University.
Advisory Board
Kara Fitzpatrick
Compliance and Logistics Advisor
Kara's career in the Transportation/Logistics industry was launched in the early 90's. Kara's accomplishments include 'Outstanding Operations Management' for 3 consecutive years. Her certifications include Total Quality Management, ISO 9001 Implementation and ISO 9001 Internal Auditing. She is a member of the Traffic Club of Chicago and TQM Association.
Sam Lybrand
Waste Advisor
Samuel Lybrand is a highly experienced waste industry executive with a diverse skill set including management, logistics, operations, financial analysis, project management and operations improvement. Mr. Lybrand possesses in-depth knowledge and experience with establishing and operating integrated solid waste systems consisting of collection, transfer, recycling and disposal components.
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Steve Fitzpatrick
Fleet Advisor
Steve offers 24 years of safety/claims management experience. His professional background includes managing safety compliance (DOT, OSHA, and PHMSA), for 9 terminal operations, in Chicago, IL area. Conducted CSA analysis and provided remedial programs. Maintained safety fitness for 1200 drivers and terminal personnel. Affiliations include Illinois Trucking Association, American Society for Quality, and Michigan Trucking Association Eastern Safety Counsel.