Boards: Hercules Capital (HTGC), Pliant Therapeutics (PLRX), Centerbase, Fexa

Gayle Crowell is recognized as one of America’s Top 100 Directors. She is respected for her integrity, strategic vision, and consistent record of performance at the highest levels. A former CEO and technology operating executive, Gayle brings deep expertise in enterprise software, artificial intelligence, data, capital markets, and growth strategy, providing a distinctive perspective on value creation and shareholder returns.

Gayle has driven significant growth across public companies, private equity firms, and venture-backed firms, delivering long-term value while aligning diverse stakeholder interests. She has held more than 26 corporate board appointments, serving as executive chair, lead independent director, and chair of every major public board committee, including compensation, nominating and governance, information security and regulatory compliance, and strategic committees.

She currently serves on the boards of Hercules Capital, Pliant Therapeutics, Centerbase, and Fexa. Grounded in principle and driven by impact, Gayle exemplifies the qualities essential to modern board leadership.