I am an experienced business professional with a strong track record of supporting entrepreneurs, building innovative ventures, and driving growth across multiple industries. As a business founder and experience working for a dozen start-up businesses, I have a real passion to help fellow entrepreneurs achieve their business objectives.

I received my MBA in Management, Marketing, and Media from Columbia Business School and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Mount Holyoke College.

Field Goods, LLC - Founder

I founded Field Goods a local food delivery service that catered to health-conscious consumers by providing high-quality food sourced from small farms and food companies. Like most entrepreneurs, I began with modest resources but expanded significantly over nine years, serving over 20,000 customers and creating numerous job opportunities. Field Goods went through significant transformations, including securing multiple funding rounds to support growth and eventual acquisition by Consolidated Harvest.

Professional Experience

Donna Williams Beyond Consulting offers Fractional CFO, Executive Mentoring and General Consulting services including financial leadership, growth strategies, operational efficiency, funding advice, and marketing expertise to help entrepreneurs achieve their business goals effectively and efficiently.

NYS Small Business Development Center at the University at Albany – Business Advisor
I guided over 200 entrepreneurs and small businesses through various stages of the business lifecycle. I developed tailored business plans, financial projections, and market research while assisting clients in securing funding, optimizing marketing strategies, and improving operational efficiency.

Bankers Trust – Merchant Banking Associate
I managed leveraged buyouts, divestitures, and partnership financings, creating unique lending solutions and drafting critical investment documents.

Hudson Harvest – Interim Head of Operations
I spearheaded the restructuring of operations at Hudson Harvest, improving profitability by 50% through strategic staffing, logistics optimization, and system upgrades. I also oversaw the transition to a new facility and enhanced pick-pack operations efficiency.

The Williams Group – Principal
I worked with diverse clients on strategic planning, business development, and general management projects. Highlights include developing a strategic plan for the Greene County Agriculture Incubator, advising food hubs, and acting as interim President for a digital travel guide.

Sahale Snacks – VP of Business Development
As one of the 1st employees, I played a key role in growing Sahale Snacks from under $1M in revenue to multi-digits. During my tenure, I established the Midwest and East Coast sales territories, securing distributors and grocery accounts. I led strategic initiatives in brand positioning, pricing optimization, and marketing.

BigStar Entertainment, Inc. – SVP of Business Development & Marketing
As one of the 1st employees I helped build BigStar.com into a leading film entertainment site, leading a team of 17 professionals and managing a $15M marketing budget. My efforts resulted in substantial media coverage and traffic growth.

The Times Mirror Company – VP of Business Development
I led strategic initiatives that generated over $75M in revenue, completed 12+ acquisitions, and developed plans for digital publishing ventures. I also supported high-value divestitures and presented strategies to senior leadership.

Cronus Partners LLC – Partner
I advised healthcare and lodging clients on acquisitions and structured financial transactions, including a $5.6B strategic acquisition and a $70M hospital sale.