Our Team

Charles Hess developed the technique of inference reading while earning his B.A. in Political Science at the University of Rochester. By reading outside his field of study, he found he was able to create connections and piece together a more realistic perspective of world economic, political and social events. Recognizing the implications of inference reading for business, Mr. Hess helped develop its steady growth and development. In 1980, as a leader in the field, he helped found Inferential Focus.

Kenneth Hey, managing partner and writer, holds an M.A. in Renaissance Humanities and a Ph.D. in American Studies. Mr. Hey received a Fulbright Lectureship to the University of Rome, Italy, for 1976-1977. He also participated in a National Endowment for the Humanities grant. In 1985, he received a Silver Award at the Houston International Film Festival for his feature-length documentary, Southern Voices, American Dreams, an overview of the American South in the 1970’s. After fourteen years as a professor at Brooklyn College, where he served as Chairman of the Film Department, he became a partner at Inferential Focus. Also formerly a film critic for USA Today magazine, Mr. Hey’s continuing achievements in diverse fields contribute a unique dimension to research and published reports at Inferential Focus. His writing has appeared in the popular, professional and scholarly press.

Fran Insinga has served as Chief Operating Officer since the earliest days of Inferential Focus. She, along with managing partner Charles Hess, has been with the company from its inception. Fran has had a long career at Inferential Focus working with investment firms where she acted as a registered broker and general principal. Her current duties include management of office operations, the administrative staff as well as being directly involved in all financial aspects of the firm.

Eric Zavolinsky is a Partner at Inferential Focus. Eric leads the content team and Inferential Focus’ digital initiatives. He is also a writer and member of the intelligence, client service and investment teams. He holds a B.A. in Journalism from Washington and Lee University. Prior to joining Inferential Focus in 2002, Mr. Zavolinsky worked in the entertainment and technology industries at CDNOW, an online music retailer, and at Island Def Jam Records. Mr. Zavolinsky began his career as a freelance television producer, including a job as the highlight producer at the 1998 U.S. Open for USA Network.

Risa Hess, is a managing director, writer and member of the intelligence team. She also leads Inferential Focus’ due diligence initiatives for Private Equity clients. Risa holds a B.S. from the University of Rhode Island in Fashion and Textiles with a minor in Fine Arts including a senior honors colloquium thesis in photography. Ms. Hess spent 20 years in the fashion industry, the first half as a buyer for Lord & Taylor. Her successive stint as product development coordinator for the country’s largest buying office took her on extensive travels throughout Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

Lauren Wonica graduated magna cum laude from St. John’s University with a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in pre-professional Business. She has been with Inferential Focus for 19 years, and is an integral part of our company. Lauren executes dual roles as Administrative Manager of front office operations, as well as Executive Assistant to Ken Hey. She is also the key force behind coordinating our Executive Forums. Lauren enjoys reading and spending time with her husband and three children.

Melissa Cipolla started her administrative career in New York City 26 years ago. Prior to joining the team at Inferential Focus, she held positions at Nathan & Lewis Securities, Calvin Klein Inc. and Rohde & Liesenfeld Inc. where she served in the capacity of executive administrative support to management. Since joining Inferential Focus in 2002, Melissa has held the position of Senior Executive Administrative Assistant to Charles Hess. Melissa also serves as our chief travel coordinator.

Gerarda is an honors graduate of Rutgers University, Douglass College with dual B.A. degrees, in English and Sociology. She is also an alumni of the Julliard School, NYC, where she studied theatrical painting and stagecraft. She spent her early career working on operas, plays and independent films in the NY, NJ and Washington, DC areas. Her film career began by working with Director John Sayles on his 1996 film Lone Star. As a member of United Scenic Artists, her professional career spanned across Broadway, opera at the Metropolitan Opera, network television and feature films. After more than a decade in show business, she turned her attention to work in the private sector and joined the team at Inferential Focus in 2010.