Pride Holdings Group (OTC: PHSE) announced on September 29, 2026, the formation of a new Advisory Board and the appointment of Richard Hawkins, George Wallace, and Darren Donnelly as its first members. The move is part of the company's effort to build corporate governance and strategic infrastructure as it expands its operating portfolio, evaluates acquisition opportunities, and pursues a long-term objective of uplisting to the New York Stock Exchange or NASDAQ.
The Advisory Board will work alongside company leadership, offering guidance on acquisitions, corporate governance, operational growth, and capital markets strategy. Richard Hawkins brings more than two decades of experience in public company leadership, corporate finance, restructurings, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic growth. He has held executive and board roles across multiple public companies and serves as managing partner of a multi-strategy investment fund focused on public company investments and special situations. George Wallace, a member of the Orlando LGBTQ+ community, adds a community-focused perspective, reinforcing Pride Holdings Group's commitment to the communities it serves. Darren Donnelly, MBA, previously managed Trevi Lounge in Connecticut and has since joined the company, providing operational insight from the venue level.
CEO Tim Majors said, "Establishing our Advisory Board is another important step in building the corporate infrastructure for the future of Pride Holdings Group. Richard, George and Darren each bring a different perspective to the table - from corporate strategy and community engagement to direct operational experience. That diversity of experience will be valuable as we continue evaluating acquisitions, strengthening our governance and positioning the Company for its next stage of growth." He added that the company aims to build a stronger organization with the governance, accountability, and strategic discipline needed to operate at a significantly larger scale.
The Advisory Board is expected to play an active role in reviewing acquisition opportunities and advising management on strategic fit, operational integration, potential financial contribution, and long-term shareholder value. It will also advise on steps necessary for a future NYSE/NASDAQ uplisting, though any such move is subject to listing standards, regulatory requirements, and other conditions, with no assurance of timing.
This development matters because it signals Pride Holdings Group's intent to professionalize its operations and pursue larger capital markets opportunities. For investors, the addition of experienced advisors could improve acquisition decision-making and governance, potentially enhancing shareholder value. For the LGBTQ+ hospitality and nightlife sector, the company's growth strategy may expand safe, inclusive community spaces. Pride Holdings Group plans to add more Advisory Board members in 2027 as it continues to expand. The announcement was distributed via NEWMEDIAWIRE.
