Emily Jenkins
Leadership is not just about titles—it’s about the journey, the growth, and the dedication that shape individuals into visionaries. At Dominion Payroll, we are thrilled to celebrate the new and expanded roles of three exceptional leaders who have risen to key positions within our executive team. Their diverse experiences, unwavering commitment, and inspiring paths to leadership reflect the core values that drive our company forward. Join us as we honor their journeys, celebrate their achievements, and look ahead to the exciting possibilities they will help us create together.
Dennis Gallagher, President
Dennis 'Denny' Gallagher's career journey began in 1995 during his college years, where he worked as a customer service representative for Signet Bank’s Secured Card program. This experience offered his first glimpse into the business world and instilled the importance of balancing career and life.
After earning his degree from Radford University, Denny joined Capital One as a Data Analyst, where he discovered his passion for building statistical models and learned to make data-driven decisions that would impact business success. "This foundation in analytics and customer service would later prove invaluable in understanding and growing our payroll business, where data accuracy and client relationships are paramount,” Denny reflects.
In 1999, Denny embraced a transformative opportunity that took him to Paris, France, with Capital One. Tasked with collaborating on a joint venture with two prominent French banks, he gained invaluable insights into international business collaboration and cultural adaptation. During this two-year experience, Denny welcomed his first child, Madeleine, marking a period of profound growth both in his personal and professional life.
Upon returning to the U.S., Denny earned his Master of Science degree from UVA’s McIntire School of Commerce, a milestone that deepened his understanding of business dynamics and leadership. This academic achievement, combined with his experience at Capital One, cemented his belief in the importance of culture, community, and positivity as essential elements of a thriving workplace.
While working with PricewaterhouseCoopers in Tampa, Denny honed his skills in teamwork and strategic vision, learning the value of mutual respect and a shared mission in achieving success. Having observed his brothers' hard work building their payroll businesses during this time, Denny, inspired by their dedication, decided to take the leap and launched Dominion Payroll, Florida in September 2010, turning his vision into reality. He notes that over the years, it has grown into something truly extraordinary.
Now stepping into the role of President of Dominion Payroll, Denny describes it as one of the greatest honors of his life. “Our company’s growth is matched only by the individual growth of each team member, and together, we continue to build something remarkable,” he shares.
Jason Poling, Chief Operating Officer
Jason Poling’s career has been defined by a rare blend of entrepreneurial spirit and operational expertise. His journey began as a staff accountant at a regional accounting firm in Nashville, Tennessee, where he played a pivotal role in building the firm’s small business accounting and tax practice. From developing product offerings to leading and managing the team that executed them, Jason quickly honed his skills in leadership and innovation.
Driven by a vision to expand services, Jason partnered with a client and longtime friend to launch a payroll company that complemented an already thriving retirement plan business. They launched Avintus, offering payroll, retirement plans, and HR consulting services. Taking a bold leap, he left his job to focus entirely on this new adventure. Around the same time, Jason’s wife launched a bridal boutique, and he supported her by managing the financial side of the business. Fifteen years later, they successfully sold the boutique, which continues to operate to this day.
After a decade of growth, Avintus began attracting acquisition offers from larger firms. In addition to serving as an owner, Jason took on the role of CFO, skillfully navigating the company through the acquisition process. Recognizing the untapped potential in the payroll division, Jason joined forces with partner, Ken Melichar, to purchase it. Not long after, discussions with David Gallagher and David Fratkin began about merging Avintus with Dominion Payroll’s Tennessee office, "we all knew we could grow better together, so it made sense to join forces," Jason reflects.
Over the past 20 years, Jason has gained invaluable experience across every facet of the payroll business, including sales, operations, and finance. This comprehensive understanding has shaped his leadership style and his ability to guide teams toward success.
Looking ahead, Jason is excited to step into his new role and see what extraordinary achievements the team can accomplish together. He's ready to continue building on the foundations of excellence and shared values that make Dominion Payroll truly unique.
Dr. Shayna Cooke, Chief People Officer
Dr. Shayna Cooke’s career path is as diverse as it is inspiring. With a passion for personal and organizational growth, she brings a unique perspective to her expanded role as Chief People Officer at Dominion Payroll.
Dr. Cooke dedicated 15 years of her career to teaching science, focusing on global education and project-based learning. Her work took her to countries like Namibia, India, and Costa Rica, broadening her perspective on education and human potential.
While teaching full-time and raising two young children, she pursued a doctorate in Leadership & Administration at Virginia Commonwealth University. “This challenging but rewarding academic journey laid the foundation for my future roles in organizational leadership,” she shares.
Transitioning from the classroom, Dr. Cooke became an educational consultant with the World Leadership School, where she led international coaching teams and designed workshops to improve teaching strategies. These experiences deepened her understanding of fostering professional growth and community.
Dr. Cooke's varied background enables her to approach challenges with creativity and empathy. She looks forward to leading Dominion Payroll into this next chapter, collaborating with her colleagues to create an environment where innovation, growth, and human potential thrive. "Together, we aim to foster a workplace where every individual can achieve their full potential and contribute to our collective successes," Dr. Cooke adds.
Our newly promoted executives are truly honored and enthusiastic to step into this exciting new chapter with Dominion Payroll. Alongside our exceptional Dominion Payroll team, they are committed to driving innovation, cultivating growth, and upholding the legacy of excellence that has made Dominion Payroll a trusted leader in the industry.