Capital with Purpose

Paul Allen is an entrepreneur and company-builder who founded Embark in 2010, growing it into one of the fastest-scaling firms in the country. Now, with Ashla, he is channeling his “Happy Works” ethos into a new chapter—backing visionary founders, guiding bold ideas, and connecting innovators so they can shape the future. Grounded in faith and family, Paul finds energy in the ups and downs of building. He and his wife are raising their kids with humor, perspective, and a love of possibility—values that anchor his work at Ashla.

Erin Barlow is a Certified Public Accounting with over a decade of experience spanning external audit, advisory, and industry accounting and finance roles. A graduate of the University of Texas, she earned both her Bachelor of Business Administration and Master in Professional Accounting through the Texas MPA program.Erin began her career at KPMG, where she spent three years in external audit before transitioning to advisory consulting at Embark. Over her 7 years at Embark, Erin advised clients on complex accounting, finance, and operational challenges. Erin also spent time in industry serving as VP of Finance and Accounting at an energy investment firm.Outside of work, Erin enjoys traveling, skiing, live music, reading, attending Texas football games, and spending time with family and friends.

Melissa Allen is the Director of Operations at Ashla, where she brings more than 20 years of experience leading finance, accounting, and operations across corporate, nonprofit, and global organizations. A licensed CPA, Melissa has held leadership roles at Embark, Laureate International Universities, Videre, and EY, with expertise spanning financial reporting, audit, systems implementation, and strategic operations. She is also the co-owner of Stout Accounting, providing full-service accounting solutions to growing businesses. Melissa’s career reflects a proven ability to navigate complex financial environments, optimize systems, and drive business performance with precision and integrity. When she's not managing spreadsheets, Melissa finds joy in mountain views and her vivacious preschooler.

MacKenzie Smith is Chief of Staff at Ashla, where she drives execution and builds the systems, partnerships, and teams powering Ashla’s next stage of growth. A builder, she blends operational rigor with creative instincts to turn big ideas into durable programs across ventures and philanthropy. Before Ashla, MacKenzie served in the Obama White House and helped launch Higher Ground Productions, shaping early Netflix and Spotify partnerships and the Becoming arena tour. She later led growth at McKissack & McKissack. A UC Davis alum and former Division I soccer player, she brings a competitor’s mindset to scaling impact at Ashla.

Angela Warrick is the Director of Details at Ashla, where she manages the founder’s calendar and oversees board meetings, travel, and organizational planning. She is known for her approachable style and ability to bring order to complex schedules. Outside of work, Angela enjoys staying active and spending time with her family.