Staff

DENISE RYSER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Denise leads PNDC’s efforts to support member businesses, by developing sales growth opportunities in direct defense and security sales and building a strong and connected supply chain in these industries. Her background in government relations, partner support, and business development make her a trusted advisor to the PNDC community. With a keen focus on member needs, Denise’s recent projects include supporting the launch of the Pacific Northwest Mission Acceleration Center (PNW MAC), leading delegations to defense focused trade shows in London and Washington D.C., and supporting PNDC’s Advocacy Committee to connect Pacific Northwest businesses with their elected officials to communicate legislative needs and impacts.

Email: [email protected]

 

SAM ZVIRZDYS, DIRECTOR OF MARKET DEVELOPMENT

Filling the roll of Director of Market Development, Sam Zvirzdys responsibilities include the growth of our organization through bridging member businesses, developing new relationships, growing our member network of DOD manufacturers, and expanding the supply chain network for everyone in the Pacific Northwest. Sam’s background in business to business manufacturing sales has helped him learn the in’s and out of manufacturing from both the B2B and B2C. Sam went to school in Caldwell, ID at the College of Idaho where he played left tackle for 4 years on the football team while earning his degree in Business Management with a focus in Marketing.  

Email: [email protected]

Brady Mordhorst, Deputy executive director

Brady leads PNDC’s vast events, including our Supply Chain Opportunities Conferences, Pints and Professionals, Summer Bash, Annual Dinner as well as our International events. His background in events saw him produce some of Portland’s largest events, including the annual Shamrock Run which attracts 25,000+ people as well as nonprofit fundraising, helping local nonprofits generate $500,000+ in just one night. Focused on developing a strong benefit for PNDC members, Brady is our person to connect with regarding anything event related, including sponsorships, speaking opportunities, or fun new ideas. If you really want to capture his attention, invite him to the golf course or a whiskey bar (he’s also very open to any sort of trip to Kentucky).

 

Email: [email protected]

 

EMILY DONALSON, OFFICE MANAGER/EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Emily Donalson joins our team with several years of customer service, schedule management and administrative experience. She assists with the day-to-day operational responsibilities as well as supporting the communications, marketing and membership teams. She also manages admin responsibilities and communications for the Mission Acceleration Center as part of the PNDC-MAC partnership. Emily was born and raised in the Portland Metro area where she lives with her Husband and two dogs. She graduated with her bachelor’s degree from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon.

 

Email: [email protected]