Dr. Jennifer Obernier is the CEO of Grist Mill Exchange (GME), where she leads a mission-focused team delivering faster, more flexible access to commercial data for defense and national security agencies. Prior to her appointment as CEO, she drove the company's early growth, securing its first production contracts and building its delivery and customer success business units.
Jen brings more than 15 years of senior national security leadership, including overseeing the intelligence and security enterprise for the Department of the Navy and advancing major reform efforts in the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence & Security.
Her experience leading complex missions now underpins her leadership at GME as she guides the development and deployment of solutions that address real operational challenges, strengthen decision-advantage, and reduce long-standing bottlenecks across mission.
Ben joined GME in January of 2023. As VP of Growth and Strategic Partnerships, he is responsible for global revenue and GME's strategic partnership ecosystem in support of government customers. Ben has held numerous positions within enterprise software companies, with a focus on Solution Selling, Go-To-Market for emerging technologies, and successfully navigating the complex ecosystems of international markets. Throughout Ben's career, whether enterprise integration, rapid application development, or semantic solutions, data has always been the foundation and driving force in providing value to customers.
Jeff is a founding member of the GME team and leads engineering and operations. He brings 20 years of experience driving product strategy and developing teams that consistently deliver high-impact software. He co-founded two successful startups, Near Infinity and Visallo—both acquired—and later held senior leadership roles at Kensho Technologies and Core4ce.
Colleen joined GME in 2023 and serves as the company's VP of Data Product Management. She oversees all commercial data provider product development and leads GME's Curation Team, which manages the Mill's data catalog and ensures that providers' offerings are best positioned to align with customer needs. Colleen has an extensive background in both military and civilian leadership, including serving as a U.S. Navy Intelligence officer, risk mitigation for both DoD and Corporate insider threat, strategy and policy development, and capabilities oversight.
Caroline joined GME in August 2023 as the Vice President of Marketing and Communications. In her role at GME, she works to build a strong, memorable brand that carries through all communications, the Mill's interface, and GME's company culture. Prior to joining GME, Caroline spent 20 years running marketing and communications programs for innovative products and startups in software, data, government services, and AI.
Prior to joining GME, Phyllis spent more than 20 years working for the federal government in various leadership roles, including crisis management in overseas, high-risk areas. These experiences helped her see firsthand the invaluable role that timely, accurate data plays in assessing and responding to crisis situations.
Ty joined the GME team in 2024. In his role as a Commercial Data Analyst, he works closely with government teams to develop and deliver data solutions that support mission requirements. Prior to joining GME, Ty served in military intelligence collections and targeting roles in support of special operations and counter-WMD analysis. He holds a master's degree in international security.
Casey joined the GME team in 2025. In her role as a Commercial Data Analyst, she provides actionable data solutions to government clients. Her background includes intelligence support for United States Special Operations Forces and joint operations, specializing in program management, sensitive activities, cyber operations, and emerging technology analysis. Casey holds a patent in system and method for automated social engineering defense.
Matthew joined the GME team in 2025. In his role as Director of Growth and Partnerships, he focuses on getting commercial data into the hands of US warfighters and our closest allies. Prior to joining GME, he worked at Core4ce, Spear AI and served as a Marine Officer on Project Maven.
Conn joined the GME team in 2026. In his role as Director of Strategic Programs, he focuses on alligning government partners' requirements with optimal commercial data solutions. Prior to joining GME, he worked at Vannevar Labs and Sierra Nevada Corporation. Before his time in the private sector, Conn deployed several times in his decade of active duty Marine Corps service, and he continues to serve in the Marine Corps Reserve.