Jim Cerra is the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of PlanetTogether, an Advanced Planning & Scheduling (APS) platform.
PlanetTogether was founded in 2004 and has grown to be the APS platform of choice for the world’s leading Supply Chain Planning and Manufacturing Execution platforms.
PlanetTogether’s software is used to optimize hundreds of billions of dollars worth of production output and resources for its manufacturing customers worldwide.
Jim has worked with many of the world’s leading manufacturers to improve their planning and scheduling systems and processes, including: Johnson & Johnson, Sony, Corning, Procter and Gamble, Guinness, Driscoll’s, and Saint Gobain.
Prior to starting PlanetTogether, Jim was the APS Product Manager at Epicor Software Corporation and earlier an APS Consultant at C-WAY Systems Inc, founded by Cornell University Professors and authors of Theory of Scheduling, Dr. Conway and Dr. Maxwell. Jim holds both a Masters and Bachelor’s degree in Operations Research and Industrial Engineering from Cornell University.
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.
At PlanetTogether, Ted oversees all day-to-day operations and finances, including the build-out and management of PlanetTogether’s Partnership Channel.
Kevin Burrell is a technical-minded problem solver with a solutions-oriented approach.
He is a hands-on learner and enjoys tackling unique technical challenges. Kevin is committed to delivering fast and friendly service to provide the best possible customer experience.
He is currently overseeing Product Support, Development QA, and Technical Documentation.
Outside of work, Kevin enjoys hiking and backpacking, with mountain summits and waterfalls as his main destinations. He is also an avid runner, golfer, tennis player, and snowboarder. Kevin's achievements include earning a B.A. in Digital Media from the University of Central Florida, summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro in 2019, and completing the Hood to Coast relay run in 2022, which covered approximately 200 miles as a team relay. Kevin's passion for solving complex technical challenges and his love for the outdoors make him a well-rounded and versatile individual
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.
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.
Currently overseeing the development and growth of PlanetTogether's global partner network, Tim resides in the Czech Republic. Outside of work, he enjoys travel and learning new languages, interests that complement an ongoing professional education in understanding local cultures and business practices throughout Europe and beyond. Tim graduated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor's degree in International Relations from Claremont McKenna College.
With a deep passion for technology, music, and trailblazing in professional services, Colin Herold brings a fearless and innovative spirit to his role as Director of Professional Services.
With over a decade of experience leading project management initiatives, Colin stands out for his commitment to excellence and his drive to explore uncharted territory in both tech and team leadership.
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.
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”
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.
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.
Tony’s leadership has been instrumental in the successful global launch of seven products, consistently driving teams to exceed company goals.
A regular speaker at Dreamforce and other major conferences, Tony has also showcased his expertise by winning Demo Jam competitions. Outside of work, Tony channels his energy and competitive nature into physical challenges.
With five years of Jiu-Jitsu experience, a passion for mountain biking, and regular participation in Spartan and Tough Mudder races, Tony always pushes his personal and professional limits.
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.
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.
Over the course of his career, John has worked on many fascinating projects, e.g. writing cloud analysis software for Scripps Institute of Oceanography, where he learned the shortfalls of large project compartmentalization.
John worked on satellites focusing on the sensor arrays, which is where he learned Infrared Engineering and how to grow crystal cameras. He worked on the front of the Nautilus-class subs, which is where he learned about piezo- and pyro-electric ceramics.
John also worked on the nation's only Plasma Generator underneath the San Francisco Bay, which is
where he learned about the fourth state of matter and predictive software. He worked with experimental light-activated medicines, where he learned the pitfalls of Clinical Trials. He worked on implanted medical devices where he learned the importance of limiting the recall exposure.
"John is a top-grade technical talent who is a pleasure to work with and to learn from."
"Anyone who has John supporting them is in good hands."
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.
Currently overseeing the development and growth of PlanetTogether's APAC and Middle East partner network, Business Development and Solutions. Outside of work, he enjoys travel and trekking.
He has worked for OEM’s and tech-enabled services companies like DELL and Frontier Business Systems. Throughout his journey he is known for his ability to build and lead high-performing teams in sales, partner channels, and customer success across domestic and international markets.
His commitment and passion towards achieving organization’s goals is commendable.
In a world teeming with digital possibilities, the personal touch often takes a back seat. Samuel Pulley, a seasoned Success Manager at PlanetTogether, is here to ensure that technology doesn't lose sight of the human touch.
During his time at Microsoft, Samuel's unwavering commitment to reliability became his hallmark. He was part of Statewide Education Programs earning the title of “Microsoft Innovative Educator”, as well as both Power BI and Enterprise Dynamics 365 pilot programs. He brought to the team the belief that a group of dedicated, like-minded individuals are irreplaceable in this increasingly digital landscape and continues to do so to this day.
As a Success Manager at PlanetTogether, Samuel is committed to delivering immediate satisfaction to clients while ensuring that their contentment remains steadfast throughout their journey with the company. With a foundation built on the personal touch and an unwavering dedication to reliability, Samuel Pulley is the trusted guide who ensures that your technology-driven success begins today and flourishes for years to come.
Peter is originally from New Zealand, but has worked and lived in Asia for over 20 years. He enjoys watching the All Blacks along with his home town team the Crusaders in the Southern Hemisphere Super Rugby league. His idea of relaxing is trekking in the jungle in his four-wheel drive.
Peter’s background includes over forty years of industry and consulting experience in ERP, Supply Chain Management, Customer Relationship Management, Lean Manufacturing and Information Technology, with major organizations in the manufacturing and distribution sector.
Peter has considerable experience in Strategic Information Systems Planning, Project
General Manager with extensive senior leadership experience building commercial relationships and extracting value from large, centrally-managed, multi-plant, make-to-order/make-to-stock manufacturing operations.
A creative strategic thinker guided by business acumen to manage teams and individuals with a strong vision and purpose. Energized by designing and implementing new and different approaches and organizational structures to tackle large, complex challenges that deliver sustainable financial results driven by informed and empowered associates.
Dr. Maxwell, or "Max" as his friends call him, sits on the PlanetTogether Advisory Board. Max has been on the engineering faculty at Cornell University since 1960 where he authored the groundbreaking book, Theory of Scheduling.
He was a Ford Foundation distinguished visiting professor at the University of Chicago in 1968-69, a visiting professor at the University of Michigan in 1977-78, a visiting professor at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, in 1983-84 and a visiting professor at Stanford University in 1989-90. He was a consultant in residence at the RAND Corporation in 1965, at General Motors Manufacturing Development in 1977-78, and at SI Handling Systems in 1983-84.
