Ahola Announces Executive Team Promotions: Michael Paull named President & CFO; Sonya Ahola James promoted to Executive Vice President
Brecksville, OH - June 5, 2025 - Ahola Payroll & HR Solutions is proud to announce the promotion of two key leaders within its executive team: Michael Paull to President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Sonya Ahola James to Executive Vice President. These promotions reflect the company’s strategic growth plans and continued commitment to leadership excellence as it enters a new phase of innovation and expansion. “We’re entering an exciting new chapter at Ahola, and these promotions reflect the evolution of our leadership to meet the needs of our clients, our employees, and our future,” said Jeff Ahola, Chief Executive Officer. “Michael and Sonya have both demonstrated incredible leadership, deep expertise, and a commitment to the values that define our company. I'm thrilled to formalize their expanded roles.”
These transitions follow the departure of Mark Strippy, who previously served as President. Mark played a key role during a period of important operational progress for the company. “We’re grateful for Mark’s leadership and the contributions he made during his time at Ahola,” said Jeff Ahola. “He helped us make meaningful strides in refining our internal processes and positioning our team for the future. We wish him all the best in his next chapter.”
Michael Paull, who joined Ahola as Chief Financial Officer in 2017, now steps into the role of President and CFO. In this capacity, he will lead broader strategic and operational functions, driving growth initiatives across the organization while continuing to oversee all financial operations. “Michael’s leadership has been nothing short of transformational,” added Jeff Ahola. “His ability to navigate complex financial landscapes while keeping a clear focus on strategic growth has positioned us for long-term success. I have the utmost confidence in Michael’s ability to help guide Ahola into the future.”
Michael brings over 35 years of experience in finance, having held leadership roles in high-growth companies, private equity-backed firms, and public organizations. He has led multiple capital raises, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate turnarounds. Michael holds a finance degree from Indiana University Bloomington, an MBA in accounting from Loyola University Chicago, and is a licensed CPA. In 2022, Michael was recognized in Crain's Cleveland Business Notables in Finance.
Sonya Ahola James has been promoted to Executive Vice President. A third-generation family member, Sonya brings a strong connection to the company’s legacy as well as a forward-looking vision for its brand and market presence. She will take on an expanded role leading Ahola’s Marketing, Sales, Product, and HR Consulting Divisions and has been instrumental in redefining the company’s brand and digital strategy. “Sonya is the heart and soul of our brand,” said Jeff Ahola. “She brings an energy and authenticity that inspires not just our internal teams but also our clients and partners. My daughter represents the best of our family’s legacy and the innovation we strive for every day.”
Since joining the company in 2017, Sonya has spearheaded key initiatives including a comprehensive brand refresh, the expansion of Ahola’s HR Consulting Division, and expanded industry partnerships. A Magna Cum Laude graduate of The Ohio State University, she has been recognized as a NextGen to Watch by Family Business Magazine and a Notable Executive in Marketing by Crain’s Cleveland Business. Sonya also plays a leading role in Ahola’s philanthropic efforts and community engagement across Northeast Ohio.
Jeff Ahola will continue in his role as Chief Executive Officer, overseeing the company’s long-term vision and strategy. Scott Ahola remains Chief Information Officer (CIO), ensuring the organization’s continued investment in secure and scalable technology solutions. “We’re building on 57 years of family leadership and innovation,” concluded Jeff Ahola. “Michael and Sonya have proven that they’re not only capable stewards of our company’s future, but bold leaders who will take us to new heights. I’m incredibly proud of both of them and excited for what lies ahead.”
These promotions are effective immediately and reflect Ahola’s ongoing commitment to leadership development, client success, and operational excellence.
###
About Ahola Payroll & HR Solutions
Ahola is a third-generation family-owned business based in Brecksville, Ohio, providing payroll and human capital management solutions to thousands of businesses nationwide. For over 55 years, Ahola has helped privately held and family-owned businesses streamline operations, remain compliant, and manage their workforce with confidence. To learn more, visit www.ahola.com.
Ahola is a third-generation family-owned business based in Brecksville, Ohio, providing payroll and human capital management solutions to thousands of businesses nationwide. For over 55 years, Ahola has helped privately held and family-owned businesses streamline operations, remain compliant, and manage their workforce with confidence. To learn more, visit www.ahola.com.
Reply a Comment