Mr. Nielsen is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the American Institute of CPA�s and Arizona Society of CPA�s. He was the manager of the Phoenix office of KPMG Peat, Marwick and has served in an executive capacity as Senior VP of Finance or CFO for three NYSE companies, one AMEX Company, a NASDAQ Company and one Pre-IPO. These Companies include Environmental Support Solutions, Inc., Granite Golf Corporation, Best Western International, Giant Industries, Inc., American Continental Corporation and Del Webb Corporation. With Best Western, he directed the development and implementation of the first strategic plan for this 50 year old company that conducted business in 75 countries. With Del Webb he directed the reengineering of all computer information systems for six hotel casinos and three resort facilities. With Giant Industries he played a key role in the structuring of a successful NYSE IPO and directed a successful $100 million financing and positioned the Company for a large acquisition. With KPMG Peat Marwick he was responsible for management and supervision of audit engagements. Mr. Nielsen has extensive experience in taxation, accounting, cash management, capital formation, finance, administration, human resources, market development, risk management, strategic planning, internal controls, information systems, SEC reporting and investor relations. He has been a productive director and committee chairman for a number of highly successful companies. Mr. Nielsen serves on the GFT audit and compensation committee. |