Our Distinctive Approach

Prescentus emerged from a visionary philosophy that recognizes the growing interconnection of payments, technology, regulation and national security. In response to this evolving landscape, we envisioned a new breed of firm. Comprising seasoned national security sector and fintech industry experts with a diverse skillset, our team is adept at addressing the dynamic needs of clients within these rapidly changing industries.

Unparalleled Expertise Across Sectors

What sets Prescentus apart is our unique blend of experience in both government and private sectors. Our team's collective proficiency spans government regulations and the intricacies of private enterprise, allowing us to offer holistic and tailored solutions that bridge the gap between these distinct domains.

Experience

Elevate Your Security and KYC Practices
Prescentus goes beyond conventional offerings, extending our expertise into National Security and AI/ML KYC advisory services. Safeguard your operations with our in-depth knowledge of national security considerations, and leverage the power of AI/ML for robust Know Your Customer (KYC) practices.
Navigate Policy and Legal Compliance with Confidence
In a landscape that moves at warp speed, encompassing technological advancements, regulatory shifts, and a dynamic business environment, staying competitive is paramount for Technology companies. Prescentus specializes in delivering comprehensive solutions to help you navigate these changes seamlessly.

OUR LEADERSHIP

Howard Herndon

MANAGING DIRECTOR
Howard is a managing director and founder of Prescentus. A lawyer by profession, Howard has deep managerial experience on both the legal and business sides of the electronic payments space, which he uses to help clients structure payment strategies, find strategic partners, and evaluate opportunities.
Al Broadbent

MANAGING DIRECTOR
Al specializes in international trade, national security, and government investigations, providing strategic counsel to clients in the commercial and defense sectors. With over 30 years of federal government service, Al has advised senior leaders in the U.S. Army, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), and Department of Defense. Al's expertise includes export controls, economic sanctions, counterthreat finance, and defense technology strategies. Al partners closely with clients, learning their business to deliver tailored solutions for their needs.

Strategic Advisors

Christopher Miller

STRATEGIC ADVISOR
Chris Miller, former Acting Secretary of Defense (Nov 2020–Jan 2021), led the U.S. military's $720 billion budget and 2.7M personnel during a pivotal time. Previously, he served as Director of the National Counterterrorism Center, confirmed by the Senate in Aug 2020. With over 30 years of leadership in complex environments, Chris is dedicated to modernizing defense strategies and advocating for Service Members, Veterans, and their families.
Brandi Reynolds

STRATEGIC ADVISOR
Brandi Reynolds is the Managing Director of Bates Group’s Fintech & Banking Compliance Practice with 19+ years in financial services, including 11 as Deputy Chief Compliance Officer. A CAMS and CAMS-Audit certified expert, she has served as outsourced Chief Compliance Officer for various institutions. Specializing in cryptocurrency compliance, AML, and consumer protection, Brandi delivers strategic and practical compliance solutions, program development, monitoring, testing, and training.
John Romer

MANAGING DIRECTOR
John is a veteran fintech professional with a broad knowledge of payment processing across many industry segments. He brings extensive experience advising retailers, restaurants and other merchants, as well as card networks, acquirers/processors, and related payment vendors.
Sophia Kim

STRATEGIC ADVISOR
Sophia Kim is a business leader with 25+ years of experience managing global teams and delivering transformative solutions. As CEO of Knossos Group Global, she advances Department of Defense operations with innovative programs, including an AI-based risk management framework for the F-35 Joint Program. Previously, she led NSTXL, managing a 400+ organization consortium, and drove business transformations at PwC. A West Point graduate and former Army officer, Sophia's expertise spans strategy, operations, and technology.
Jason Hsu

STRATEGIC ADVISOR
Jason Hsu, a visiting fellow at the Hudson Institute, leads the Indo-Pacific Technology and Geopolitics practice. A former Legislator At-Large in Taiwan's Legislative Yuan (2016-2020), he spearheaded key tech and social progress laws, including the AI Development Act and Same-Sex Marriage Act. An Edward Mason Fellow at Harvard, Hsu researches semiconductor policy and geopolitics and has lectured at Yale, Stanford, and UC Berkeley. His work has been featured in outlets like New York Times and Bloomberg.
Dr. Paul Coyer

STRATEGIC ADVISOR
Dr. Paul Coyer specializes in foreign affairs and national security, with extensive experience in U.S. policy, interagency processes, and international business. He has advised financial firms, consulted on global expansion, and lectured at institutions like Saint-Cyr and the Institute of World Politics. His work spans major regions, and his analysis appears in publications like Forbes. Author of The Ethics of Nationalism, Dr. Coyer holds advanced degrees from Yale and LSE and lives in Virginia with his wife.
Vikas Kalra

STRATEGIC ADVISOR
Vikas combines teaching and engineering expertise with a systematic, empathetic approach to solving business challenges. With over 20 years of experience, he has driven double-digit CAGR growth across startups and S&P 500 companies. He specializes in sales operations, customer experience, go-to-market strategy, and technology solutions like SaaS, blockchain, and AI/ML. Previously, he held leadership roles at MSCI, Cross River, Alkymi, and FXCM. Vikas holds a BA in Chemical Engineering and is a CFA charter holder.
Nicanor Tat

STRATEGIC ADVISOR
Nic Tat is a seasoned expert in emerging technologies with over 20 years of experience in fields like 3G/4G telecom, IoT, Smart Cities, transportation, and electric vehicles. A former executive at a global consulting firm, Nic has led innovation strategies across industries such as automotive, energy, and retail. A co-founder of successful startups, including in electric mobility, Nic advises companies like Liquid Intelligence and frequently speaks at industry events. He holds a degree from Northwestern University.
Russell Moore

STRATEGIC ADVISOR
Russell Moore is the Director of Corporate Strategy and Development at Global Payments Inc., leading strategy across various segments. Founder of ECOWRM, ThinkDropCreative, and TechNeMa, he has driven innovation in industrial design and cryptocurrency since 2004. With prior senior roles at TSYS and engineering experience at Knology and Troy University, Russell specializes in network architecture and technical solutions. He holds a Bachelor's in Industrial Design from Auburn University.
Tom Mitchell

STRATEGIC ADVISOR
With 35+ years of experience, Tom is President and COO of Insequence Corporation, providing software solutions to automotive suppliers. He also leads Stratipoint Advisory, advising companies on strategy, growth, and digital transformation. Tom serves on multiple boards, including TN HIMSS and the Nashville Chamber, and is active in the Nashville CEO Roundtable. A speaker and advisor, he holds a BA from Auburn, enjoys guitar, archaeology, and fitness, and has been married for 36 years with three children.
Michael Miller

STRATEGIC ADVISOR
Michael is a business executive and national security expert with a proven track record in driving growth and innovation in aerospace and defense. He has secured significant R&D funding, led high-performing teams, and developed cutting-edge technologies. A combat veteran and former Senior Advisor to the Secretary of Defense, Michael has held leadership roles at VT-ARC, U.S. Strategic Command, and more, specializing in AI, cybersecurity, and wireless tech for defense markets.
Will Patterson

STRATEGIC ADVISOR
Will has extensive knowledge of US defense and foreign policy, backed by over a decade of experience in Congress and the UK’s Washington Embassy. He managed Congressional engagement for the British Embassy on critical issues such as AUKUS, export controls, and shipbuilding. On Capitol Hill, he spent seven years in the Senate focusing on defense, foreign affairs, and trade policy. With his deep political insight and broad network, Will helps companies navigate complex political landscapes and enhance their visibility.
Danielle Dayné Duff

STRATEGIC ADVISOR
With a background in international agreement negotiation, cyber and operational military law, Danielle provides clients in the financial services and technology industries with independent legal and advisory services on corporate, national security, data privacy, and technology matters. Currently residing in Stockholm, Sweden, Danielle manages a successful practice where she drafts, reviews and negotiates corporate legal agreements and assists clients in navigating complex legal and regulatory requirements in order to make informed and compliant business decisions.
Dr. David Brock

STRATEGIC ADVISOR
Dr. David L. Brock is the Founder of Liquid Intelligence, a platform advancing AI networking across industries like defense, healthcare, and energy. A former Principal Research Scientist at MIT, he invented the Internet of Things, founded the MIT Data Center, and co-directed the Auto-ID Center. Previously, he led research at MIT’s AI Lab and founded companies like endoVia Medical and Hangout Industries. Dr. Brock holds multiple degrees, including a Ph.D. from MIT.