As new blockchain projects crowd the market, credibility has become a scarce commodity. BlockDAG separates itself not just with its hybrid infrastructure or $376 million presale haul, but with a leadership team that combines real-world experience, academic credentials, and domain-specific expertise.
From cybersecurity and smart contracts to distributed systems and branding, the BlockDAG C-suite and advisory board represent a calculated effort to build from the top down with strategic execution in mind.
C-Suite Executives: Foundational Roles Driving Execution
CTO Jeremy Harkness: Engineering Scale
Jeremy Harkness brings extensive experience in blockchain scalability, having led prior distributed ledger system projects focused on transaction throughput and data consistency. At BlockDAG, he oversees the technical execution of the hybrid DAG + PoW architecture and is deeply involved in testnet optimizations and smart contract layer integration. His engineering decisions directly influence the network’s ability to support EVM-based applications at scale.
CSO Youssef Khaoulaj: Embedded Security Expertise
Dr. Youssef Khaoulaj is a cybersecurity expert and red team hacker who has audited multiple smart contracts across different chains. As Chief Security Officer, he not only oversees internal audits and disaster recovery plans but has also been instrumental in shaping the bug bounty and smart contract verification program. With a PhD in cybersecurity, he ensures that BlockDAG’s infrastructure and app ecosystem are fortified from day one.
CMO Nicolaas van den Bergh: Positioning for Global Scale
Nicolaas David van den Bergh brings over two decades of branding and digital marketing experience, including a leadership role at DFY Studios. At BlockDAG, he is spearheading the global marketing push, managing strategic partnerships, and leading user acquisition for tools like the X1 App and Tap Miner Game. His focus is on brand equity, consistent narrative, and performance-driven outreach.
Advisory Board: High-Caliber Minds Guiding Strategy
Maurice Herlihy: Academic Rigor in Distributed Systems
Few names in computer science carry the weight of Maurice Herlihy. A professor and researcher with multiple Dijkstra Prizes to his name, Herlihy has helped shape the theoretical underpinnings of distributed ledger systems. His presence on the advisory board not only brings gravitas but ensures that the system's core is grounded in proven theory. Herlihy also serves as an advisor to Algorand and was involved with BlockDAG before his formal appointment.
Steven Clarke-Martin: DAO & DevSecOps Expertise
Steven Clarke-Martin bridges the worlds of high-performance infrastructure and smart contract ecosystems. With a background in startup scaling and decentralized organizational models, he provides critical insights into developer engagement, governance layer design, and technical marketing. His hands-on experience with cloud automation and DevSecOps strategies supports BlockDAG’s long-term plan for dApp expansion and modular deployment.
Strategic Alignment: One Vision, Diverse Execution
What stands out about BlockDAG’s leadership composition is its multidimensional focus: security, engineering, product utility, and branding are all represented by specialists in their fields. The team’s coordinated execution has already led to tangible milestones such as the successful testnet launch, the rapid expansion of the mining ecosystem, and presale traction. Initiatives like the developer hackathon, VC outreach campaigns, and cross-industry sponsorships (e.g., Inter Milan, Seattle Orcas) demonstrate operational clarity and long-range planning.
A Team Built for Real Scale
BlockDAG isn’t aiming to be just another crypto token. The platform’s leadership structure shows deliberate intent to scale, not only in terms of technology but also in brand trust, user growth, and institutional visibility. From red-team-tested security layers to developer onboarding tools and academic oversight, the team is equipped to execute on the full roadmap. For investors and builders alike, the strength of the BlockDAG team provides assurance that the foundation is more than just marketing, it’s execution-ready.