Our PlanetTogether Team
Our team of experts is united by a shared passion for delivering innovative and effective advanced planning and scheduling solutions to help businesses thrive
Founder & CEO
Jim Cerra is the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of PlanetTogether, an Advanced Planning & Scheduling (APS) platform.
Before launching PlanetTogether, Jim honed his expertise in the world of scheduling and planning at companies like Epicor and C-WAY Systems (founded by the very smart folks behind the "Theory of Scheduling").
With degrees in Operations Research and Industrial Engineering from Cornell, he's got the background to back it all up.
Chief Operating Officer
Ted joined PlanetTogether in 2021 and is based out of Portland, Oregon.
He has worked for tech-enabled services companies for more than 16 years. Throughout his journey, he has led global programs and teams responsible for serving Fortune 500 companies like Amazon, Danaher, HP, Walt Disney, UPS, Starbucks, and Wells Fargo.
Ted oversees all day-to-day operations and finances, including the build-out and management of PlanetTogether’s Partnership Channel.
Director of Engineering
Cavan is one of the behind-the-scenes geniuses who helps lead the design and development of PlanetTogether’s feature-rich software.
When he’s not in front of the computer or whiteboard, he can be found in the mountains – snowboarding, backpacking, or out on the racquetball courts.
A true thinker, Cavan graduated Magna Cum Laude from California State University, San Marcos with a B.S. in Computer Science.
Director of Product
Kevin Burrell is a technical-minded problem solver with a solutions-oriented approach. He is currently overseeing Product Support, Development QA, and Technical Documentation.
Kevin enjoys hiking and backpacking (mountain summits, waterfalls). He holds a B.A. in Digital Media (UCF), summited Mt. Kilimanjaro (2019), and completed the 200-mile Hood to Coast relay (2022). Kevin's passion for solving complex technical challenges and his love for the outdoors make him a well-rounded and versatile individual.
Cloud Operations Manager
Stephen Milano has over 20 years’ experience managing technology and customer engagements for software and professional services firms.
Most recently, Stephen played a key role in building and managing the SaaS infrastructure for Gimmal, Inc. Stephen joined PlanetTogether in 2021, where he is responsible for the PlanetTogether Cloud Service as well as internal technology and security initiatives.
Stephen has a degree in Computer Science from Rice University. He lives in Houston, Texas.
Director of Global Partnerships
A dedicated advocate of customer and partner success, Tim has more than 25 years of enterprise software sales experience with a focus on partner and account management across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Before joining PlanetTogether in 2023, Tim oversaw partner relationships for QAD, Inc., a global provider of ERP solutions for manufacturing companies in the EMEA region for more than 15 years.
Based in the Czech Republic, Tim oversees PlanetTogether's global partner network. He enjoys travel and language learning, complementing his professional education in international cultures and business. Tim graduated Magna Cum Laude in International Relations from Claremont McKenna College.
Director, Professional Services
Colin plays an instrumental role at PlanetTogether, establishing and advancing formal project management methodologies that set a strong foundation for operational success.
His approach centers on pushing boundaries and empowering teams to do the same. His belief in the potential of the “new” and “unexplored” makes him a magnetic presence, inspiring those around him to embrace challenges and see potential setbacks as opportunities for growth.
Outside of work, Colin blends his love for tech and music, always eager to learn and share insights with his team and community.
Senior, Solutions Architect
Joseph is originally from Haiti, but has worked and lived in Dominican Republic for 6 years. He is an active learner, business enthusiast and process improvement addict, which made his integration in our team a natural fit.
He is currently in charge of: software consulting, testing and system integration.
Joseph holds a B.S degree in Industrial Engineering from UTESA University. He likes volunteering and speaks 4 languages: Creole, French, English and Spanish. In his free time, he likes to watch movies, listen to music, and learn new languages. As a married man, Joseph dreams to grow a happy family. As an engineer, he strives to make an impact in the engineering world. His mantra: “Beat the Odds”
Customer Success Manager
Shelly has over 25 years in customer-facing roles, including customer success, sales and marketing. She has a passion for driving the customer journey from implementation and adoption to expansion and advocacy. She has successfully built and led teams to achieve high customer satisfaction.
Shelly has an MBA degree from Pepperdine University. Her goal at PlanetTogether is to build and maintain strong, long-lasting customer relationships by understanding customer needs, addressing concerns, and advocating for the customer.
Sales Engineer
With over 14 years in the Salesforce ecosystem and a strong foundation in data integration, big data, and master data management, Tony brings a wealth of expertise to the table.
Known for a competitive drive and an entrepreneurial “figure-it-out” mentality, Tony has built and led high-performing teams in sales, marketing, partner channels, and customer success across domestic and international markets.
A regular speaker at Dreamforce and other major conferences, Tony has also showcased his expertise by winning Demo Jam competitions.
Outside of work, Tony, a competitive individual, enjoys physical challenges: 5 years of Jiu-Jitsu, mountain biking, and participation in Spartan and Tough Mudder races. He consistently pushes his limits.
Marketing Manager
Alejandra Varela, a marketing powerhouse from México, brings a unique blend of cultural understanding and marketing expertise to PlanetTogether. With a double major in Marketing and Advertising, she crafts globally resonant campaigns. Her passion for international collaboration is fueled by her experience working with both high-growth tech firms and major media companies.
With a proven track record of success and a commitment to excellence, Alejandra is poised to take PlanetTogether's marketing efforts to new heights. Her ability to adapt to changing market conditions and her dedication to delivering high-quality work make her a trusted partner for businesses looking to optimize their operations and stay ahead of the curve.
Regional Director (APAC)
Santosh Kumar from India has been instrumental in building Sales and Channel Partner teams Globally. He has more than 21 years of enterprise software sales experience with a focus on partner and account management across APAC, Europe and North America.
Overseeing PlanetTogether's APAC and Middle East partner network (Business Development & Solutions), he enjoys travel and trekking.
With experience at DELL and Frontier, he's known for building and leading high-performing sales, partner, and customer success teams internationally.
Solutions Architect
JD is a San Diego native. As a leader of our support team, he enjoys solving problems and making sure our customers have the tools they need.
Outside of the office, he enjoys playing guitar and exploring San Diego's best-hiking spots.
JD received his B.A. in Writing from California State University, San Marcos.