Building the future of operations

Bryan Burkhart is the Founder and CEO of Worksmith. Bryan has extensive leadership and management experience gained through more than two decades in the software industry. He began his career at Trilogy Software in Austin, Texas. Later he served as Senior Vice President of Global Sales at Callidus Software, Inc. (IPO – NASDAQ: CALD), where he was responsible for all revenue and managed the company’s sales operations globally. Bryan founded and served as CEO of H.Bloom Inc., acquired by Tenth Avenue Holdings. Bryan graduated from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania with a BS in Entrepreneurial Management.

Steve is the Chief Operating Officer at Worksmith, where he leads the company's vision, strategy, and operational execution. A key figure since Worksmith’s inception, Steve has been instrumental in building the core team, driving financial forecasting, ensuring regulatory compliance, and shaping the product roadmap. Under his leadership, the company has achieved significant growth and profitability through strategic planning, exceptional project management, and a strong focus on team development. With a background in software engineering, Steve initially designed and developed Worksmith's flagship product. His unique combination of technical expertise and business acumen has positioned him as a leader in both engineering and operations. Before joining Worksmith, Steve served as Director of Engineering at H.Bloom, where he led the development of web applications and expanded the engineering team. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Columbia University, providing a solid foundation in technology and leadership.

Cassie is the VP of Enterprise Accounts at Worksmith, where she has a proven track record of driving growth and fostering strong relationships with key clients. Passionate about delivering tailored solutions and ensuring exceptional service for large-scale enterprises, Cassie was the first hired employee at Worksmith. She enjoys helping her clients reap the benefits of a great solution. Cassie thrives in fast-paced environments, leveraging her expertise to create impactful, long-term partnerships. She's dedicated to continuous innovation and strives to lead by example in delivering value to both clients and the business. As a problem solver, Cassie focuses on finding creative solutions that meet her clients' needs, working tirelessly to ensure their success. She believes in fostering a positive, collaborative atmosphere and empowering her team to exceed expectations. Cassie is also committed to staying ahead of industry trends and adapting to the evolving needs of her clients. She loves exploring new places, staying active, and soaking up all the fun that life has to offer. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a competitive tennis match, or simply relaxing with Olive, Cassie knows how to find the perfect balance between work and play.

Michael is the Vice President of Engineering at Worksmith where he has played a pivotal role in scaling the company’s technology stack. With a focus on building a talented and collaborative team of engineers while staying up-to-date on the latest software trends, he has fostered a culture of innovation and continuous improvement at Worksmith. Starting at Worksmith as an engineer himself, Michael has an acute understanding of the challenges his team faces, and uses that background to nurture a supportive environment that ensures both the success of his team as well as Worksmith’s technology platform. In his free time, he enjoys hiking and exploring local breweries.

Kaitlyn Thoen is the Director of Product at Worksmith, specializing in Product Design and User Experience. Known for her creative problem-solving and user-centered approach, she is passionate about transforming complex challenges into intuitive solutions that meet customer needs. When she’s not at work, you can find her on a plane, traveling to a different corner of the world.

“Nico” Steimer is the Director of Sales at Worksmith, specializing in cultivating successful, new business partnerships for Worksmith and its clients. Always at the forefront of exploring innovative go-to-market and sales strategies and testing new ideas, he elevates team performance through collaborative efforts and a commitment to continuous improvement. His colleagues commend his leadership skills, perseverance, creativity, and integrity, defining him as a professional who consistently strives for excellence. Outside of work, alongside his wife, dogs, and cat, Nico takes advantage of all of the live music, food, and fun Austin, TX has to offer.

Kanan is Worksmith’s Director of Customer Success, where he focuses on driving customer satisfaction, ensuring seamless onboarding, and building long-term relationships to enhance client retention and success. Known for his strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and customer-centric mindset, he’s passionate about empowering customers to maximize the value of Worksmith and providing personalized, strategic support. When he’s not at work, you can find him reading, playing strategy games, or going on walks with his dog, Zeke.

Ray Riley co-led Progress Retail from inception to acquisition by Worksmith. Ray remains responsible for the Progress Retail business unit, and as a member of broader Worksmith team that is passionate about bringing innovation to workforce and workplace management. Previously Ray spent 10 years in the retail industry. Ray enjoys traveling, good food, basketball, and spending quality time with his family. Ray is based in Chicago.

Nadine Horwitz is the Director of Creative Services, Floral & Visual Division at Worksmith, where she brings over 20 years of leadership in luxury events and floral design. Her expertise spans client service, vendor relations, design strategy, operations, sales, and marketing. Nadine ensures each design or campaign reflects brand identity through thoughtful use of color, texture, and form, creating an elevated guest experience that embodies each client's aesthetic. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two boys and experiencing everything Chicago has to offer.