Dana Shute

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Executive Leader | Strategy, Operations & Growth | Financial Markets, Trading Performance & Risk Strategy

I am an executive leader, business strategist, U.S. Navy veteran with a career rooted in disciplined decision-making, operational leadership, and performance optimization. My background spans complex, high-stakes environments where accountability, structure, and sound judgment are essential—ranging from financial markets to organizational leadership roles.

I bring a measured, data-informed approach to leadership, with a focus on risk management, strategic execution, and team development. Whether guiding professionals, shaping organizational strategy, or improving operational systems, I am known for elevating performance, strengthening processes, and delivering sustainable, long-term results.

Expertise, Strategic Vision, and Leadership Philosophy

Proprietary Trading & Market Insight
Senior-level experience across multiple asset classes, including futures, applying a disciplined, risk-aware framework to decision-making in dynamic, high-pressure environments. Recognized for translating market structure, data, and probability into actionable strategy that drives consistent performance at both the individual and organizational level.

Trader Mentorship & Performance Development
Proven leader and mentor to retail and professional traders, focused on developing discipline, accountability, and repeatable decision-making processes. Experienced in aligning individual performance with broader organizational objectives through coaching, feedback, and structured performance frameworks.

Risk Management & Behavioral Discipline
Extensive experience designing and enforcing risk management protocols and performance controls. Deep understanding of behavioral dynamics and decision psychology, with a leadership approach that emphasizes consistency, capital preservation, and long-term sustainability over short-term outcomes.

Entrepreneurial Leadership & Strategic Planning
Founder and operator of a proprietary trading business with responsibility for strategy, operations, systems design, and team leadership. Experienced in building scalable processes, evaluating performance metrics, and driving measurable growth in competitive environments.

Financial Consulting & Education
Provide strategic market insight, advisory services, and education to traders and firms seeking to improve performance, efficiency, and risk-adjusted outcomes. Known for translating complex concepts into practical, executable frameworks.

AI-Enabled Strategy & Execution
Advanced user of Gemini Pro, ChatGPT 5.2 Pro, and Claude, applying LLMs to strengthen strategic planning, marketing and messaging, analytical modeling, and technical problem-solving. Leverage AI to accelerate research, streamline workflows, and improve decision quality across executive-level responsibilities.

Operational & Platform Proficiency
Advanced user of NinjaTrader, Sierra Chart, TradingView, and automation tools to support data-driven workflows, operational efficiency, and scalable execution. Experience integrating technology into performance and risk frameworks at both individual and team levels.

Public Speaking & Executive CommunicationExperienced presenter and communicator, leading webinars, training sessions, and professional discussions focused on markets, risk, and performance. Skilled at engaging diverse audiences and communicating complex ideas with clarity and purpose.

EXPERIENCE

EDUCATION

EXPERIENCE

Download Resume

EXPERIENCE

TOP GUN TRADERS EDGE / TOP GUN TRADE ZONES

Marblehead MA

Founded and scaled Top Gun Traders Edge (live coaching, education, trading signals) and Top Gun Trade Zones (Market Reaction Zones™, proprietary trade-zone alerts).
Established and pioneered trader education, trading indicator software, and live futures trading signal service, serving clients in over 10 countries, driving profitability and success.
Managed product delivery, trader onboarding, subscription management, and ongoing support with a lean team/partner model.
Conduct proactive in-depth research and analysis of proprietary trading systems, leveraging 25 years of trading experience, resulting in valuable insights and the development of a robust trading methodology.
Empower and guide individual traders through comprehensive online webinars and coaching sessions, delivering expert knowledge on risk management, trade psychology, and trade management, enhancing performance and profitability.
Create and implement detailed written and video daily trading plans across six futures markets, providing clients with strategic market guidance. Conduct daily strategic market reviews and interactive Q&A sessions to ensure client success.
Develop and execute comprehensive social media advertising campaigns across multiple channels, overseeing design, content, SEO, and creative content to maximize reach and engagement.
Orchestrate regular strategic review meetings with partners, affiliates, and technical support team fostering collaboration and leveraging diverse expertise to optimize trading strategies and products, driving informed decision-making.

2020-Present

Founder & Head of Trader Experience

Top Gun Trade Zones, LLC

Top Gun Trend Trades, LLC

2016-Present

Professional Trader and Trading Coach

SHUTE TRADING

Manchester-by-the-Sea MA & Marblehead MA

Independent futures/options trader and trading coach including:

Full time independent futures trader: Capitalizing on 20+ years of institutional trading experience and utilizing proprietary methodologies and indicators to identify and exploit profitable market patterns.
Conducted research and initial analysis on experimental proprietary trading systems.
Coached institutional and retail traders on risk management, trade psychology, and trade management.
Evaluated conceptual trading models for feasibility of further research and study.
Organized strategic review meetings of trader methodology, progress, and development.
Collaborated with select independent traders to evaluate and improve trading methodologies.

2014-2016

Director of Marketing and Business Development

STRATIFI (formely LOG-E Risk Advisors)

Boston MA & San Francisco CA

Developed consultative relationships with HNW individuals/families, C-Suite executives, institutions, and RIAs to create customized solutions in separately managed accounts (SMA), for Boston based boutique hedge fund, including: income generation, risk reduction, tax management, and greater diversification.
Increased assets under management (AUM) from $240M to $280M in 4 quarters with additional $25M+ in pipeline.
Collaborated with team to create bespoke option overlay risk management solutions for clients.
Conducted presentations to prospective clients reviewing benefits, products, and RFPs.
Created marketing and business development plans, all marketing materials including tear-sheets, product brochures, email, and online digital content. Designed new company website, vetted prospective designers and developers, and oversaw project through completion.

SHUTE WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Chicago IL & Manchester-by-the-Sea MA

Friends and family private wealth manager. Created proprietary market timing model and 'fund of funds' portfolio.
Managed all aspects of business development, sales, marketing, and relationship management. Responsible for administration, banking, funding, and account management.
Conducted online and/or on-site monthly portfolio reviews with clients. Addressed clients' questions and concerns on an ongoing basis and made appropriate adjustments to portfolio according to goals and risk tolerance.

2007-2014

Private Wealth Manager & Trader

2002-2006

Senior Portfolio Manager

HEYHMEYER TRADING & INVESTMENTS (formely Kottke & Associates)

Chicago IL

Collaborated with firm principals in the development of quantitative trading models and systems. Consulted with engineers to develop concepts into profitable models.
Development efforts directly resulted in 23% growth of yearly firm trading revenue.
Managed all proprietary trading systems: execution, reconciliation, daily reports, etc. Presented monthly status reports to key stakeholders.
Managed, coached, and mentored a team of eight proprietary traders.

2000-2001
SaaS Account Executive

ZACKS INVESTMENT RESEARCH

Chicago IL

Sold proprietary investor relations software to leading Fortune 1000 companies for entire east coast region. Achieved 80% closing rate on qualified leads.
Leading account executive in total annual sales revenue. Average initial sale: $50k
Demonstrated and delivered training for new clients via online and on-site instruction.
Planned, organized, and conducted regional sales seminars for Zack's high-end B2C (individual investors) investment software. Taught software to new clients and provide ongoing technical support.

1997-2001
Portfolio Manager / Senior Derivatives Trader

GOLDMAN SACHS / HULL TRADING COMPANY

Chicago IL

S&P 500 arbitrage and neural network trader/PM for leading global investment firm and world's leading options market maker. $150M portfolio.
Developed several successful international trading partnerships with overseas system developers.
Traded joint venture neural network portfolio utilizing an advanced order execution system. Averaged $500k profit monthly.
Exclusively chosen by all firm traders to trade and manage firm's trader bonus pool fund.
Evaluated and identified weaknesses in firms risk management. Created and implemented Portfolio Trading Guides (PTGs) for training new portfolio managers in specific strategies, operational troubleshooting, and administrative tasks, reducing operations errors by 65% and human trading related errors by over $3M per year.

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science

The Hotel School

Business Administration & Finance

CORNELL UNIVERSITY

Ithaca, NY

Commissioned Naval Officer

US NAVY AVIATION OFFICER CANDIDATE SCHOOL

United States Navy, Pensacola, FL

Distinguished Naval Graduate (First in Graduating Class)

EMPLOYERS

EXPERIENCE WITH LEADING FIRMS

SKILLS

SOFTWARE SKILLS

AI Proficient in Prompts, Modeling and Business Strategy: ChatGpt, Claude, Gemini, Midjourney

Trade Platforms: Ninjatrader, TradingView, Tradestation

Microsoft PowerPoint - Proficient

Adobe Photoshop & Acrobat

File Storage & Cloud Productivity: Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive

Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook

SEO, Google Ads & Analytics

Google Workspace: Gmail, Drive, Docs Calendar

Webinar Platforms: Webex, Zoom, GoTo

Various Productivity Applications: Evernote, Google Keep, Snagit

Website Design and Management

EXPERTISE

I am a dynamic and results-oriented sales and business development professional with a track record of delivering measurable results across diverse industries. With over 20 years of experience, I have cultivated a deep understanding of both strategic leadership and operational execution. My client-centric approach allows me to foster lasting relationships, creating strong loyalty and trust that drive sustainable business growth. Whether managing high-level client engagements, trading portfolios, or leading teams, my commitment is always centered on one core objective: delivering value and exceptional outcomes.

My core competencies include:

Strategic Leadership – Driving growth through market insights, collaboration, and operational excellence.
Trading & Asset Management – Developing quantitative models, optimizing portfolios, and managing proprietary trading strategies.
Customer Success & Retention – Empowering clients with strategic guidance and ensuring long-term satisfaction.
Sales & Business Development – Identifying opportunities, qualifying leads, and closing high-value deals through consultative selling.

STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP & OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE

Vision & Strategy Development – Define and execute strategic initiatives that drive growth, optimize operations, and enhance organizational performance.
Team Leadership & Collaboration – Lead cross-functional teams with a focus on high performance, accountability, and alignment with business objectives.
Project Management & Execution – Oversee complex projects from conception to delivery, ensuring timelines, budgets, and quality standards are consistently met.

PROPRIETARY TRADING & MARKET ANALYSIS

Proprietary Trading Expertise – Leveraging 20+ years of institutional trading experience, I use proprietary methodologies and quantitative analysis to identify profitable opportunities and execute high-probability trades in futures markets
Risk Management & Coaching – I guide individual traders and institutional teams in managing risk, optimizing strategy execution, and mastering trade psychology for consistent performance.
Relationship Management & Business Development – I develop consultative relationships with HNW individuals, C-suite executives, and institutions, creating tailored strategies and growing assets under management (AUM).
Quantitative Trading & Model Development – I collaborate on trading models and automated systems, driving measurable results including increased revenue and enhanced profitability.
Portfolio Management & Market Timing – I manage private wealth portfolios, providing regular reviews and strategic adjustments to align with client goals while navigating market volatility.

CUSTOMER SUCCESS & RETENTION

Client Onboarding & Training – Lead comprehensive onboarding and coaching programs, equipping clients with tools, knowledge, and strategies for success.
Client Success & Portfolio Optimization – Monitor portfolios proactively, adjusting strategies to maximize returns while mitigating risk.
Strategic Relationship Management – Build and maintain long-term client relationships, aligning portfolios with goals and fostering loyalty.

SALES & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Consultative Selling & Lead Qualification – Identify client needs early and deliver tailored solutions that build trust and create value.
Revenue Growth & Market Adaptation – Consistently exceed sales targets through strategic planning, market analysis, and client engagement.
Sales Strategy & Marketing Execution – Design and implement marketing campaigns, collateral, and digital content to expand client base and drive results.

SUMMARY

With a client-centric approach and extensive experience spanning trading, asset management, customer success, and business development, I drive growth, strengthen relationships, and deliver measurable results. Leveraging strategic insight, operational excellence, and leadership, I ensure sustained success for both clients and organizations. My ability to combine innovative strategies with practical execution makes me a valuable partner for any enterprise seeking to enhance performance, expand market reach, and build lasting partnerships.

EXPERTISE

MILITARY SERVICE

ABOUT ME

Hand selected to direct ten-member team to assimilate five years of historical data for federal Base Re-alignment and Closure Commission (BRAC). Led successful team presentation of accounting data to senate commission in Washington. Result: Military base was saved from closure.
Persian Gulf war decorated veteran. 200+ carrier landings, flew four different military combat jet aircraft. Extensive management and leadership experience overseeing 250 personnel in the following positions: Communications Officer, Administration Officer, IT Risk Manager, Public Affairs Officer, and Nuclear Safety Officer.
Numerous awards and decorations for outstanding performance of duties and service.
Managed operational budget three consecutive years with zero discrepancies.
Led four-member team conducting extensive JAG (Judge Advocate General) audit investigation. Result: Saved the US Navy $2.8M by identifying operational and accounting mismanagement.

UNITED STATES NAVY

Naval Aviator

Developmental Test Pilot, Fighter/Attack Pilot and Operations Officer

Naval Air Weapons Center, Naval Air Station, Point Mugu, CA

Managed $3.75M budget and related planning and forecasting. Honorably discharged from Navy at rank of Lieutenant Commander. Accomplishments include:

BEYOND THE OFFICE: WHAT INSPIRES ME

Stowe Vermont A ski weekend in Stowe - never often or long enough!	Marblehead MA I learned to sail in Chicago and now participate in races in the ocean waters around Marblehead.	Cape Cod I find peace and beauty in the lesser traveled Cape beaches.
Home for our Troops (Charity) A favorite charity of mine. HFOT builds and donates specially adapted custom homes nationwide for severely injured post – 9/11 Veterans.	Cornell Reunion Dinner Party Summer reunion dinner party with fellow Cornellians.	A Favorite Thoreau Quote A Thoreau quote that I find meaningful and keeps goals in perspective.
Cadillac Mountain Sunrise A spectacular sunrise on Cadillac Mountain in Mt. Desert Island Maine - highly recommended!	Kayak Tour in Essex MA Always up for a paddle somewhere on the rivers and ocean on the north shore of Massachusetts	Sebastian Maniscalco I'm a big fan of stand-up comedy - always looking for brilliant and funny people: Sebastian (a Chicago area native) is one of them.
Carrier Fly-by An image from my Navy days of a fly-by of the Carrier.	Napa Wine & Wineries Always love to find new wines to enjoy. Discovering smaller vineyards and vintners is always a pleasure.	Tough Mudder I've always enjoyed sports and enjoy a good physical (and mental) challenge. Also a great way to meet new friends.
The Tipping Point I tend to read more non-fiction than fiction, and usually business related - this book is one example. I found this book to be eye-opening and fascinating.	NAWC Point Mugu, CA A picture taken before one of my last flights for the US Navy in the F-4 Phantom as Developmental Test Pilot.	Labrador Retriever I love animals - I'm presently "in-between" pets, but cliche as it may be, it's hard to beat the unconditional love of a dog.
White Mountains New England is such a beautiful area - mountains, lakes, oceans, cities, quaint towns, culture - all within a few hours drive.	Springsteen from Pit I love live music of all kinds - and occasionally it's a special experience, like seeing Bruce Springsteen from the pit, only feet from the stage.