The People Powering Vital4

Kristin Stafford

Founder & CEO

Kristin Stafford is a seasoned entrepreneur and executive with extensive experience in SaaS and enterprise platforms that facilitate global compliance and background screening. As the co-founder and CEO of Vital4, she leads the company’s mission to provide AI-powered, cloud-based solutions for data aggregation and screening to support compliance, due diligence, and background checks on a global scale. 

Prior to Vital4, Kristin co-founded and led the development of the first global data screening platform adhering to the Fair Credit Reporting Act, which was successfully acquired by Dun & Bradstreet in 2021. With over 25 years of experience in operations management, software development, and process architecture, Kristin is a proven leader in building innovative solutions and leading teams both domestically and internationally. 

Outside of her professional role, Kristin enjoys spending time with her family, including her husband Scott and three children. A high-energy individual, she loves cooking, entertaining, dancing, and traveling with her four pets—Mabel, Dipper, Chubbs, and Luci-fur. 

Amy Barbieri

Co-Founder, President, and Chief Growth Officer at Vital4

Amy Barbieri is a visionary entrepreneur, executive leader, and recognized innovator in the fields of risk management, AI-driven compliance technology, and financial crime prevention. As a founding partner and President at Vital4, Amy has played a pivotal role in shaping the company into a global force in the fight against financial crime through advanced data and SaaS solutions.

With over 25 years of experience in sales, marketing, and strategic growth across SaaS, data, and compliance sectors, Amy is known for turning vision into execution. Before launching Vital4 she led business development at an international background screening firm, where she was instrumental in the launch of the first-to-market SaaS data search solution designed to meet FCRA compliance — an innovation that led to a successful acquisition by Dun & Bradstreet in 2021.

Amy is an inventor of AI-powered technology currently in the patent process and is widely regarded as a thought leader on the intersection of artificial intelligence, risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance. She speaks frequently at leading conferences on behalf of Vital4, sharing insights on emerging technologies and the future of compliance.

In addition to her executive role at Vital4, Amy serves as the Executive Director of Fintech for Good — an initiative focused on advancing inclusion, trust, equity, and sustainability in financial technology. She also sits on the Board of Managers at Vital4 and the Board of Directors at Fintech Atlanta, where she champions innovation and ethical leadership in the fintech ecosystem.

Based in Atlanta, Amy is the proud mother of two daughters. She loves spending time with friends traveling, enjoying live music, great food, and wine. She’s also an avid tennis and pickleball player and finds joy in staying active and being outdoors.

Dawn Marchand

Founding Partner & Chief Legal & Compliance Officer

Dawn Marchand is a founding partner of Vital4, bringing extensive expertise in product development, compliance, vendor management, and quality assurance to her role as Chief Legal & Compliance Officer. She played a pivotal role in the early stages of the company, drawing on her experience in the startup phase of one of the first independent wholesale international background screening firms in the U.S.

Before joining the team as a founder, Dawn honed her skills in the film industry, where she gained expertise in large-budget logistics and coordination. As a compliance leader at Vital4, she has been instrumental in managing the development and compliance of over 3,000 services across 220 countries.

Dawn maintains strong relationships with government agencies and suppliers worldwide, ensuring Vital4’s services adhere to international data privacy laws. She enjoys exploring the Georgia coast, trying new eateries, and spending time with friends, family, and her college football-loving self (Roll Tide!).

Scott Stafford

Founding Partner & Chief Information Officer

Scott Stafford is a co-founder and the Chief Information Officer at Vital4, overseeing the development and delivery of all technology products and services. With over 15 years of experience in software development, Scott is an expert in managing the entire software development lifecycle, including process engineering, solution design, integration, and user testing.

Prior to Vital4, Scott was a Senior Product Owner at IBM, where he contributed to the company’s cloud technology innovations. His work in managing CRM integrations, including Salesforce, Microsoft CRM, and NetSuite, has equipped him with extensive knowledge of technology applications and business solutions.

When not focused on technology at Vital4, Scott enjoys relaxing on the lake with his three kids and family, often found in his Birkenstocks.

Robin Boyle

Chief Financial Officer, CPA, CMA

Robin Boyle, a seasoned finance professional, joined Vital4 in 2020, bringing 34 years of experience in accounting and finance. Prior to joining Vital4, she served as CFO for seven startups, providing invaluable expertise to facilitate high-growth companies.

Robin’s career includes a long tenure as Director of Finance at Cambridge Engineering, where she developed comprehensive financial reporting packages and KPIs to drive business success. She holds an Executive MBA from Washington University in St. Louis and a dual bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance from Southeast Missouri State University.

In her personal life, Robin enjoys spending time with her family, including her four daughters and two granddaughters. She is passionate about yoga, walking, and traveling.

Kathy Escoto

Chief Operating Officer

Kathy Escoto is an experienced business and technology executive, with over 25 years in leadership roles across both large corporations and startups. As Vital4’s Chief Operating Officer, Kathy builds strong partnerships with clients and ensures the successful execution of their business strategies.

Her career includes roles at The Coca-Cola Company, Georgia-Pacific, and Equifax, where she led digital transformations and spearheaded global innovation efforts. Kathy’s unique ability to bridge the gap between technology and people makes her a key leader in driving business results.

Outside of work, Kathy enjoys traveling, cooking with friends, and spending time with her husband, Moe, and their four boys. She is also passionate about entrepreneurship and serves as a board member for Startup Runway.

Robert Fenech Santucci

Chief Information Security Officer

Robert Fenech Santucci is an accomplished professional in data networking, IT infrastructure, and cybersecurity. With a master’s degree in engineering and computer science from Oakland University, Robert has spent decades advancing the field through both his work with international clients and his role as an educator and lecturer.

He holds numerous professional certifications that demonstrate his depth of expertise and commitment to excellence, including Certified Information Systems Auditor, Certified Ethical Hacker, GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst, GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner, and ISO/IEC 27001 Lead Auditor.

Robert has been at the forefront of cybersecurity and data privacy solutions, and his role at Vital4 ensures the continued security of the company’s systems and data.

In his spare time, Robert keeps up with industry advancements and enjoys ongoing professional development in his field.

Kellan Williams

Chief Data Scientist

Kellan Williams is the Chief Data Scientist at Vital4, where he leads the development of innovative machine learning, natural language processing, and AI models. Kellan is an expert in applying advanced analytics to solve real-world business challenges, driving strategic and operational advantages for both internal and external clients.

With 17 years of experience in data science and analytics, Kellan has worked with organizations such as IBM, Huntington National Bank, and Tenet Partners. He specializes in text analytics, forecasting, and predictive modeling, and is a recognized thought leader in the industry.

Kellan is passionate about pushing the boundaries of innovation and spends his free time enjoying golf, snowboarding, auto racing, and spending time with his four children.

Lindsay Earwood

VITAL4Search Program Manager

Lindsay Earwood is the Program Manager for VITAL4Search, overseeing the research, development, and continuous improvement of Vital4’s search platform. She and her team audit and update the platform to ensure it meets the evolving needs of clients in the global compliance landscape.

Before joining Vital4, Lindsay held a similar role in an international background screening company, where she led the development of a SaaS platform providing complex data to Consumer Reporting Agencies. Her expertise in data management and compliance has been instrumental in enhancing Vital4’s offerings.

In her personal time, Lindsay enjoys activities like whitewater kayaking, surfing, rock climbing, and traveling with her family.

Tracey Rucker

Founding Partner & Director of Customer Success

Tracey Rucker is a founding partner and Director of Customer Success at Vital4. Tracey’s background in global due diligence, background screening, and operations management has been a key driver in the company’s growth and success. She excels in client services, vendor management, and change management, having built long-term relationships with partners and customers worldwide.

A member of NAPBS since 2009, Tracey ensures Vital4’s clients receive exceptional service and value. Her deep industry experience, combined with her established network, strengthens the company’s position in the global compliance landscape.

Outside of work, Tracey enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking, and is a college football fan (Go Dawgs!). She also cherishes spending time with her three children, granddaughter, and close friends.