Meet the People Behind Benchmark
Benchmark's Leadership team is driven by a vision to be the industry's most independent and trusted expert, advocating solely for the client's best interest through unbiased, technically rigorous consulting.
Operational leadership, fostering growth, and a commitment to community service to drive the company's success.
Vince Ellison, an experienced professional with a background in operational leadership and community service, currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Benchmark, Inc. Vince has a track record of fostering growth, enhancing operational efficiency, and nurturing a culture of teamwork and client-focused service.
Raised in Mount Vernon, Iowa, Vince embarked on his educational journey at Iowa State University, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Speech Communication and a Master's degree in Industrial Relations. His pursuit of excellence led him to the University of Iowa's Tippie College of Business, where he completed his MBA, establishing a strong foundation for his professional career.
Vince's career is marked by leadership roles highlighting his versatility. Before joining Benchmark, Inc., he made significant contributions as the Iowa Vice President/General Manager at Knutson Construction Services, where he played a pivotal role in overseeing operations and spearheading complex projects. His experience also includes impactful tenures at Bergan KDV, where he served as the Chief Operating Officer and later became ICR Market Leader, Bergan Paulsen's Chief Operating Officer, and at Marsh, where he built up his skills in human resources management.
Beyond his professional achievements, Vince is committed to giving back to the community. He has held various volunteer positions, including Chair of the Board of Directors for the Iowa City Area Business Partnership, President of the Hawkeye Area Down Syndrome Association, and Board Member of the Cedar Rapids Opera Theatre. His dedication to service underscores his belief in the importance of community engagement and social responsibility.
Vince Ellison's blend of operational expertise, visionary leadership, and community involvement makes him a valuable asset to Benchmark, Inc., as the company continues to grow and excel in the industry.
Lesley brings 25 years of experience leading mission-driven organizations through periods of ambitious growth and transformation. With leadership expertise spanning client services, product development, and business development, she brings a valuable cross-functional perspective to our team.
This extensive experience in scaling operations is paired with a deep understanding of maintaining operational excellence. Her leadership ensures that as Benchmark grows, our core commitment to quality and client satisfaction remains our top priority. Lesley is dedicated to developing high-performing teams and fostering a culture of teamwork and accountability. She has mentored numerous professionals, guiding them from individual contributor roles to executive-level leadership positions.
Lesley’s educational foundation includes an Associate of Arts from Kirkwood Community College and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications/Marketing/Public Relations from Mount Mercy University. Her achievements have been recognized with honors such as the CBJ 40 Under 40 award, and she holds certifications in leadership and marketing frameworks.
Her connection to the community remains strong. Lesley was recently recruited to join the Board of Directors of Kirkwood's Facility Foundation, where her strategic insights will help guide the institution's future. Her commitment to mentorship and community service is also reflected in her past involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters, where she served as a board member for four years and volunteered as a Big Sister lunch buddy.
Leading the company's growth strategy and solidifying Benchmark's position as the industry leader.
As the Senior Director of Sales and Marketing at Benchmark, Inc., Dana is responsible for spearheading the company's growth strategy and leading client engagement initiatives from the corporate headquarters in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She leverages over 15 years of comprehensive experience in sales, marketing, operations, and strategic planning to ensure Benchmark continues to meet and exceed client expectations and solidify its position as the industry leader.
Dana’s leadership is focused on developing strategic commercialization plans and enhancing client satisfaction across both existing and new markets. Her strong track record, including significant contributions as the former Vice President of International Sales at Digital Diagnostics, enables her to deliver high-value contracts and collaborative partnerships critical to Benchmark’s expansion.
Committed to excellence both professionally and personally, Dana holds an Executive MBA from the University of Iowa Tippie College of Business. She actively contributes to supporting the next generation of female leaders by volunteering her expertise as a mentor in the University of Iowa's Women in Business Mentor program.
Elise brings dynamic leadership style and exceptional people skills with a passion for coaching and cultivating relationships, both external and internal. Knowledge of many facets of the industry based on an integrated background involving hands-on experience at multiple levels of the pavement and roof industry.
As part of multiple focus and leadership groups, Elise promotes continuous improvement of organizational health throughout departments and between offices and divisions, translating companywide
Technology leader aligning Benchmark's IT infrastructure and capabilities with our strategic objectives.
As the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for Benchmark, Inc., Aaron Horn is responsible for ensuring the organization's technology infrastructure and capabilities are perfectly aligned with its overall business strategy and objectives from the corporate headquarters in Cedar Rapids, IA. His primary goal is to leverage his extensive experience to enhance Benchmark's already innovative technology foundation.
Aaron brings a broad and diverse background in IT leadership, having directed technology across various industries including ag manufacturing, healthcare software, chemical, and railroad, and most recently served as the Executive Director for NewBoCo. This varied experience provides him with a strategic, adaptable perspective on enterprise technology. Benchmark's COO, Vince Ellison, noted that Aaron's "roll your sleeves up and help where needed" mentality makes him a strong cultural fit for the firm.
Aaron holds a BS in MIS & Entrepreneurship from Iowa State University – Ivy College of Business. Originally from Ames and now residing in Swisher, Iowa, Aaron is deeply committed to community engagement. He serves on the Board of Directors for multiple nonprofits, including Miracle Travel Works, Candlelighters NYC, Hawkeye Area Council - Boy Scouts of America, and Beat Cancer Today.
Join a team that makes and impact
Benchmark is a national leader in roof and pavement consulting services. We build lasting relationships with our clients and with each other.
