LEADERSHIP

Errin Chapman

Errin Chapman is the Director of IT for ACT LAB. He has over 30 years of experience in IT, specifically in the areas of network security, server virtualization, voice-over IP, and software-as-a-service.  Before joining ACT LAB, Errin served 25 years in education with the last 12 years as the Director of Media and Technology. 

He holds a Master’s degree in Information Security and Assurance.

J. Michael Drozd

Mr. Drozd has over 25 years of experience leading bio-analytic testing, manufacturing, and consumer product companies. Most recently, Michael served as the CEO of AgEagle (NYSE: UAVS) which was the highest-performing stock on the NYSE in 2020.

Prior to AgEagle, Michael led Eurofins’s (ERF: PA) AgBio division, which included hemp/cannabis testing, agrigenomics, and seed/plan testing. Michael also served as the CEO of Aseptia/Wright Foods which was the #1 fastest-growing food company in the US on Inc 5000.

Michael received a B.S.E. and a Ph.D. from Duke University and a Master’s degree from Cambridge University and Stanford University. In 2004, Michael was awarded the Distinguished Young Alumni from Duke University.

Jasmina Kovacevic

Jasmina’s primary focus is operational strategies, aligning the organization’s overall goals and objectives, and leading the operations teams to optimize processes and ensure efficient and effective business outcomes for the organization and customers.  As a member of the leadership team, she ensures customers receive best-in-class service through continuous operational excellence, competitive advantage, and a focus on customer service.

In her previous roles, she developed and implemented strategic operational improvements, tools, and processes as the Director of Operational Excellence.

Jasmina holds an Executive MBA from the University of Iowa, and several certifications including: Artificial Intelligence Applications for Growth, from Northwestern Kellogg School of Management, Lean Manufacturing, HACCP for Food Processors, and Implementation of SQF Systems.

Cornelius Merlini

Mr. Merlini has 30 years of operational experience and healthcare leadership in biopharmaceuticals, medical devices, consumer health and diagnostics products. Most recently, Mr. Merlini was General Manager for Healthtronics Lab Solutions, the diagnostics division of Endo Pharmaceuticals. Previously, Mr. Merlini ran commercial operations for Core Blood Registry (CBR). Mr. Merlini joined CBR from Johnson & Johnson, where he served as Worldwide Vice President of the Cardiovascular Franchise across Bio Pharmaceuticals. Mr. Merlini is a Managing Partner of Intrinsic Capital Partners, an investment firm focused on life science and technology businesses with the legal cannabinoid market.

Dr. Robert Miller

Bob Miller, Ph.D joined ACT as COO in 2019. He took on the role of Chief Scientific Officer in 2023. Bob has over 35 years in Pharmaceuticals, which included oversite of diverse product portfolios for global Pharma and Generic companies such as Bayer Pharmaceutical, Pfizer/Warner-Lambert, and Johnson & Johnson. Prior to joining ACT, Bob was SVP of Quality at Gilead Sciences Inc. He has a wealth of experience in the design and implementation of quality systems and guiding companies through compliance enhancements in response to FDA and other global regulatory agencies. Prior to his role at Gilead, Bob was the head of Quality at Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer.

Bob holds a B.S. in Pharmacy and a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from Rutgers University College of Pharmacy

Cole Tautges

Mr. Tautges has over 15 years of experience leading testing groups, including pharmaceutical, supplement, cannabis, medical device, and food chemistry. Most recently, Cole served as the Vice President of Operations and Country Manager for Tentamus North America, including oversight of 15 laboratories.

Prior to Tentamus, Cole led chemistry testing at FSNS (A Certified Group Company) as the Vice President of Operations. Other previous CRO experience includes leadership roles at both PPD and Covance.

He holds both a bachelor’s degree in biology, and an MBA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Donna Yelinek

Donna Yelinek joined ACT LAB with over 30 years of experience in the Human Resources field, predominantly in the Manufacturing industry. Donna also worked in the healthcare industry as a labor relations advisor. She has been at ACT LAB for over 2 years and is excited daily to work closely with ACT’s leadership and teams toward the goal of becoming the most preferred employer in the cannabis testing industry! 

Donna received her master’s degree in human resources management from Central Michigan University. She served as an Adjunct Professor of Human Resources Management and Organizational Behavior at Northwood University.