Bob Geolas
President & CEO

Robert T. “Bob” Geolas is President and CEO of the Research Triangle Foundation of North Carolina. Bob joined the Research Triangle Foundation in November 2011 and coordinates initiatives and efforts to ensure the Park remains at the forefront of technology and applied science. He leads the Foundation in achieving its mission of creating opportunities for all of North Carolina by repositioning RTP to respond to new realities and re-invent itself to meet the demands of the 21st Century.

Bob brings more than 20 years of experience to RTP and has a proven track record of leveraging world-class education, research and business activities. Prior to being named the President & CEO of the Foundation, Bob most recently served as Executive Director of the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR) and Associate Vice President for Economic Development at Clemson University. In his earlier career, Bob led North Carolina State University’s Centennial Campus and Centennial Biomedical Campus.

Liz Rooks
Executive Vice President & COO

"My favorite thing about The Park is the impact it has had for the good of the economy of North Carolina."

As the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Liz is responsible for short and long range physical planning and operational management. Liz serves on the Executive Committee of the Research Triangle Park Owners & Tenants Association, working with the association on issues of importance to Park companies.  

Linda Hall
Chief Financial Officer
@Lkhall 

"It's pretty amazing. We work with and amongst over 170 companies, ranging from Fortune 500 global companies to the small one person start up -- all who work toward a common goal of furthering our future of science, technology and research."

As Chief Financial Officer, Linda is responsible for the Foundation’s finance and administration functions, including strategic financial planning and analysis, human resources, information technology, and the Archie K. Davis Conference Center. 

As Vice President, Ailstock leads the business development, marketing, real estate and partnership efforts of the Research Triangle Park. He is responsible for strengthening our role in partnering with regional and state economic development efforts and expanding our partnerships with the universities and Park companies.

"My favorite part of working in RTP, particularly in my position, is that I get to interact with all different types of businesses and organizations and learn about new and exciting things that are cultivating within the region."

Anna provides direct support to the President and CEO, coordinates all meetings and logistics, and serves as a liaison for the Board of Directors.

Anna Penner
Senior Director, Business Development 

"My job is so incredibly rewarding in that I actively build the community by creating jobs for people."

Anna plays an integral role in business development and client activities. She is responsible for leasing RTP-owned incubator Park Research Center and is the primary liaison with state and regional economic development groups.

Vacant
Director, Marketing and Communications

The Director of Marketing & Communications is responsible for ensuring alignment of Foundation activities with the Research Triangle Park brand and the marketing and communications strategy. The Director is also responsible for the proactive public relations strategy and media outreach across all platforms, and acts as the company spokesperson.

Linda Rozet
Conference Center Manager

"My favorite thing about RTP is its inherent sense of purpose and dedication."

A seasoned event manager, Linda is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Archie K. Davis Conference Center and reception area.

Ashley Parson
Administrative Assistant

"I love interacting with the community of The Park. The companies and people who helped create this place and keep us moving towards a future of innovation."

Ashley provides administrative support for the Foundation, greets visitors at the front reception and supports the coordination of meeting logistics for the Archie K. Davis Conference Center.

Vacant
Conference Center Meeting Planner

The Meeting Planner coordinates meeting logistics including set-up, presentation, and catering requirements. Other responsibilities include conference center tours and client communications.

Karenn Cox
Senior Administrative Assistant

"I am so drawn to the wide variety of culture and arts related events in both our small and large award-winning venues."

 Karen supports the planning and business development group and coordinates @rtp program events, including the Innovation speaker series and Owners & Tenants Association meetings.

Corey Liles
Planner

"The greatest thing about RTP is the quality of life improvements it has fostered for all North Carolinians. I'm proud to be a part of it."

Corey provides technical input, including data and geographic mapping to support the planning of infrastructure and land-use for the Master Plan project and other planning efforts of the Park. 

James Lim
Director, Programs and Sustainability Initiatives

"I enjoy the small town feel combined with world class amentities. Our cities like Durham and Raleigh have such unique identities and personalities."

James champions sustainability initiatives, including The Park's environmental conservation programs and SmartCommute campaign, supports the Owners & Tenants Association and coordinates programs that help build community and fosters collaboration amongst RTP companies and its employees.

Craig Reed
Intern, Environmental Programs

"The thing I value most about working in the Park is the environmental consciousness of those around me.  Working in such a positive atmosphere with like-minded people towards similar goals for the environment and society keeps me motivated and driven every day.”

Craig is responsible for maintenance of RTP’s wildlife programs, including the 40 bird boxes and the butterfly garden, and supporting the environmental programs produced by Environment @rtp and SmartCommute @rtp.

Darren Danko
IT Manager

"The sunny, warm weather in NC allows me to get out and bike to work pretty regularly. With the many bike paths in RTP, I'm able to enjoy the ride not having to worry about getting run over for 90% of my journey."

Darren oversees the administration and maintenance of the company's infrastructure and ensures that the Foundation’s day-to-day and conference center IT and AV operations run smoothly. 

Krystal Sanchez
Accounting Assistant

“What prompted my relocation to the RTP area was the beautiful weather, picturesque foliage, and multitude of unique shops & restaurants.  It is a pleasure to work & live in such an environment every day.”

Krystal is responsible for accounts payable, cash receipts and accounts collections, in addition to providing administrative support for the finance department.

Michelle Stiles
Accounting Supervisor

"Being centrally located to top universities Duke, UNC and NC State gives companies great access to talent and research. I personally love the access to top notch doctors and specialists."

Michelle manages the accounting functions of the Research Triangle Foundation, Triangle Service Center, Durham Wake Service District and TUCASI. She is also responsible for payroll and HR administration.