We show up before things break.

Philipp Bohren serves as SVP of Cybersecurity at 7 Layer Solutions, where he has led the company's cybersecurity practice since 2020. He owns the full security portfolio, cyber posture management, compliance and risk advisory, vCISO services, and the 24×7 Security Operations Center and leads the team of analysts and security leaders behind it. Philipp works directly with client executives to align security investment with business objectives, guide compliance readiness across frameworks like SOC 2, HIPAA, and NIST CSF, and build roadmaps that deliver measurable risk reduction. His combination of executive perspective and hands-on technical depth makes him a trusted advisor to clients navigating an increasingly complex threat and regulatory landscape. 

James Pike has served as Director of Business Development at 7 Layer Solutions since 2018. James leads both sales and marketing for the organization. He brings over 20 years of experience spanning software development, technology strategy consulting, and ERP business application sales. 

Tony Bellisario is Vice President of Advisory Services at 7 Layer Solutions, leading the advisory practice with over 30 years of IT experience. He works alongside executives and IT leaders to select, implement, and optimize technology that improves operational efficiency and supports business growth. His focus areas include virtual CIO leadership, M&A due diligence, cloud strategy, cybersecurity, and disaster recovery.

Russell Donofrio started with 7 Layer IT in 2015 as a Systems Engineer and worked his way up to IT Director in 2022, leading a team dedicated to supporting the company's financial services clients throughout the Chicagoland area. His responsibilities span Microsoft 365 administration, endpoint security, cloud infrastructure, compliance, and other critical IT functions for client organizations. Having risen through the ranks himself, Russell brings a practical, ground-level understanding to his leadership—along with the technical depth clients count on for reliable support. 

Jim Pawlak co-founded 7 Layer Solutions with Marc in 2014 and serves as CFO, overseeing the company's financial strategy and operations. Prior to 7 Layer Solutions, Jim built his career at Material Sciences Corporation, a publicly traded manufacturing company, where he held a series of financial leadership roles before ultimately serving as CFO. He brings deep financial and administrative discipline to 7 Layer Solutions, helping keep the business on solid footing as it continues to grow.

Jeff Zerwer, IT Director, leads a team of skilled technicians delivering responsive, reliable IT support to clients in the manufacturing and municipality sectors across the Chicagoland area. With over 20 years of IT experience and a track record with 7 Layer since 2024, Jeff brings deep technical expertise and steady leadership to every engagement. Above all, he is committed to building trusted, long-term relationships that help each organization unlock real value from its technology investments.

Bernie has been a member of 7 Layer Solutions since 2015 and serves as Senior Vice President of Managed Services, leading the practice and its specialized service groups. Bernie brings extensive technical expertise and a strong background supporting organizations in the private equity and financial services sectors. He also serves on the advisory board of PECFOA's (Private Equity CFO Association) Midwest Chapter as a technical resource. In addition to leading 7 Layer’s managed services team, Bernie helps drive strategic relationships with clients and partners, ensuring a high level of technical expertise and service across the business.