Col Russ Barnes (Ret)

Russ Barnes, USAF Colonel (retired), MBA, MS

Colonel (retired) Russ Barnes is the CEO and Senior Business Advisor to Entrepreneurs and Executives at Systro, an organization design firm specializing in small business development.  His 30+ years of experience in organization development is drawn from military service, franchise ownership, academic programs, and strategy consulting, specifically with small businesses.

After retirement from the military, Russ grew a franchise territory from zero to profitability in less than three years.  His growth was based on a clear vision, building an effective network, consistently delivering a quality product and maintaining a relentless focus on customer service.

Russ is a graduate of the Referral Institute Certified Networker program where he received extensive training in referral marketing. He received his Bachelor’s Degree from Manhattan College (NY), his MBA from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and his Master of Science degree in Strategic Studies from Air University.  He is currently earning a PhD in Organization Development at Benedictine University.