Our Team
When you work with The Downsizers, you're supported by a coordinated team of specialists, each bringing expertise in a specific part of the process to make your transition as seamless, efficient, and worry-free as possible.
Sean Planchard, Chief Executive Officer
Sean Planchard serves as Chief Executive Officer of The Downsizers, leading the company with a deep commitment to service, integrity, and genuine compassion for families navigating life transitions. Hand-selected by our founder as the next steward of the business, Sean is dedicated to protecting the heart and culture that define the work.
Sean began his career as an educator through Teach For America and later served as a Fulbright Scholar before earning his law degree from the University of Chicago. He practiced law in North Carolina and worked as a management consultant with McKinsey & Company before pursuing his entrepreneurial path. Across each chapter, one thread has remained constant: a commitment to love people through serving, learning, teaching, and sharing.
Sean Planchard, Chief Executive Officer
Sean Planchard serves as Chief Executive Officer of The Downsizers, leading the company with a deep commitment to service, integrity, and genuine compassion for families navigating life transitions. Hand-selected by our founder as the next steward of the business, Sean is dedicated to protecting the heart and culture that define the work.
Sean began his career as an educator through Teach For America and later served as a Fulbright Scholar before earning his law degree from the University of Chicago. He practiced law in North Carolina and worked as a management consultant with McKinsey & Company before pursuing his entrepreneurial path. Across each chapter, one thread has remained constant: a commitment to love people through serving, learning, teaching, and sharing.
Our Leadership Team
Jen Harris
CFO & COO
Jen was The Downsizers’ first employee and, over the past eight years, has worked in almost every role across the business. Drawing from her own family’s downsizing experience and her background as a CPA at one of the "Big Four" firms, she now serves as CFO/COO, blending expertise, operational systems and compassion to guide clients through transitions. Ask Jen about her two beautiful daughters and her many adventures in hiking across the globe!
Ibby Wooten
MANAGER OF CLIENT SERVICES
AND PROJECT MANAGER
After experiencing her own downsizing journey, Ibby brings encouragement to clients as they make their new space home. With careers in senior living, antiques, and event planning, she offers strong project management skills and a deep understanding of the Triangle’s retirement communities, making her a trusted guide throughout the moving process. Ask Ibby about her favorite team, the Tar Heels, and her very deep roots in this area!
Angela McGinn
AUCTION SERVICES MANAGER
Angela began her career with The Downsizers in the field and as a Project Manager, where she managed estate clear-outs, liquidations, and helped launch the auction business. With years of experience flipping vintage collectibles from thrift stores, flea markets, and estate sales, she has a sharp eye for value. Now at The Consignors, Angela curates unique treasures. Ask Angela about her experience homeschooling her children and some of her favorite vintage finds!
Jeannie Hickman
ACCOUNTING SUPERVISOR
With degrees in Physical Therapy and Nursing, Jeannie worked over 20 years in healthcare with seniors and public relations before transitioning into business operations for The Downsizers. After managing 16 personal moves and her own downsizing, she now serves as Accounting Supervisor at The Downsizers, blending empathy, detail, and project management expertise. Ask Jeannie about her new puppy and her travels with her husband in their RV!
Client Services
Project Managers
Guide our clients and our Client Services team through each and every project from beginning to end. Our Project Managers focus on communication, timeline and resource management, as well as client experience.
Bridget Haddican
Born and educated in England, Bridget’s career spans aviation, investment banking, and family law as a qualified attorney. Since moving to North Carolina in 2013, she has worked in real estate and personally downsized to Hillsborough. Her international experience and practical knowledge equip her to guide families through major moves with a global perspective. Ask Bridget about her favorite spots and traditions in England, and all of her wonderful travels!
Katie Thornburg
Katie’s background includes years working with seniors in both home care and senior living communities, where she supported families and listened closely to their concerns. She later taught in a developmental day center before raising her own family and working in education. At The Downsizers, Katie draws on her professional and personal experiences to guide clients through life transitions with dignity. Ask Katie about being an avid runner and her recipe for excellent gluten free cookies!
Emily Garvin
Emily brings over 25 years of leadership as Executive Director of two multidisciplinary arts organizations, where she managed exhibitions, performances, classes, and community partnerships. She has also coordinated senior relocations and experienced downsizing with her own family. At The Downsizers, she blends strategic planning and creativity. Ask Emily about her experience in the arts and why she decided to downsize from Annapolis to Durham!
Team Leads
These team members oversee our on-site team. They ensures everything runs smoothly during hands-on days, covering all phases of the projects including sorting and clear out, packing, unpacking and art hanging.
Sarah Rhyne
With a Master’s in Public Health and 15 years in nonprofit leadership, including as Disaster Program Manager at the American Red Cross, Sarah brings strong organizational and client service skills. Having helped her own family through multiple downsizing moves, she is passionate about guiding others through transitions with clarity and care. Ask Sarah about her absolute love of organizing and all things Duke!
Sophie Bozymski
A Chapel Hill native and lifelong Tar Heel, Sophie discovered early passions for fitness, health, and helping others. Her diverse career path including being part of the Durham Police force and a personal trainer has shaped her people-focused approach at The Downsizers. Ask Sophie about her F45 coaching practice and how she likes to motivate others to become their best selves!
Sarah Myers
With over 15 years of experience supporting older adults and individuals in transition, Sarah specializes in downsizing, accessibility modifications, and home cleanouts. A former Peace Corps volunteer who also contributed to Hurricane Katrina recovery in New Orleans, she brings integrity and problem-solving skills to every client she serves. Ask Sarah about her favorite tv shows!
Jaclyn Mattera
With a background in jewelry design, retail, and coaching, Jaclyn brings creativity and problem-solving skills to The Downsizers. Inspired by supporting her own grandparents through downsizing, she is passionate about guiding clients through life transitions with communication and goal-focused support. Ask Jaclyn about her upcoming wedding and her experience creating jewelry with her CAD design career!
Felicia Cothran
With a Master’s in Psychology from Appalachian State, Felicia has worked with children and adults with special needs and supported senior ministry efforts. Having guided family members through their own moves, she now brings organization and personal insight to helping clients navigate the emotional and practical aspects of transition. Ask Felicia about her sons, baseball and quilting!
Downsizing Specialists
This hands-on team manages the daily details of the sorting and clear out process, packing, unpacking, and settling you smoothly into your new space.
Regan Cudjoe
Regan’s own experience managing her mother’s ALS-related move during the pandemic gave her a deep understanding of the challenges families face in transition. With 15 years as a photojournalist meeting people from all walks of life, she brings storytelling insight to her work with The Downsizers. Ask Regan about her career in journalism, and her beautiful and charismatic daughter!
Kate Kosmen
Originally from outside Chicago, Kate spent over a decade in corporate event planning. After relocating to Raleigh, she became certified in home staging and began pursuing her real estate license. Having experienced her own downsizing journey, she brings expertise and empathy to help clients create intentional living spaces. Ask Kate about her two grown children, and whe she's traveling to next!
Charity Crabtree
With experience at Emory University, the Institute on Aging in San Francisco, and the Durham Center for Senior Life, Charity has dedicated her career to supporting older adults. Passionate about helping people share their stories, she brings empathy and expertise to guiding clients through life transitions. Ask Charity about miniatures and preserving oral family histories!
Erin Woodward
Erin began her career supporting pediatric patients and later spent a decade in Montessori education. Having long assisted friends and family with decluttering and organizing, she brings this dedication to The Downsizers, helping seniors and families navigate the challenges of downsizing with care. Ask Erin about her love of running and managing her teens and college age kiddos!
Rachel Baliff
With 20+ years of Recruiting and HR experience supporting companies from startups to Boeing, The Discovery Channel, and The Washington Post, Rachel also managed two high-end consignment shops. Having helped her own parents begin downsizing, she now brings professional expertise and personal insight to serving clients at The Downsizers. Ask Rachel about her photography hobby or her kids!
Lisa Krueger-Gavin
Having moved 27 times herself, Lisa understands the physical and emotional challenges of transition. Her background includes client service in advertising and senior support as a Meals on Wheels case manager. As a Downsizing Specialist, she draws on both personal and professional experience to guide clients through meaningful life changes. Ask Lisa about what book she's reading!
Paige Darlington
With over a decade of experience as a Professional Organizer in Los Angeles, Paige brings deep insight from helping individuals navigate major moves and life transitions. With a background in interior design and home staging, she blends practicality and style in her work with The Downsizers. Ask Paige about her quirky dog, Beau, or the latest experimental dish she’s cooked up with her husband!
Taylor Nawrocki
In-House Movers
Your trusted team for small moves, auction and consignment drop-offs and deliveries, known for their careful handling and attention to detail.
Adrian Soto-Perez
A North Carolina native and former Division I wrestler at Appalachian State University, Adrian brings diverse experience in coaching, construction, remodeling, and moving. Passionate about helping those in need, he is dedicated to giving his best each day and supporting clients with energy, positivity, and hands-on expertise at The Downsizers. Ask Adrian about his amazing wrestling career!
Jordan Mangum
A proud North Carolina native from Knightdale, Jordan holds an associate degree in business from Wake Tech and Livingstone University and is pursuing a degree in Sports Medicine. At The Downsizers, he is committed to supporting clients through transitions while embracing teamwork and the pursuit of personal growth. Ask Jordan about his large extended family and his interest in sports medicine!
Auction Services
Our specialized team at The Consignors curates your items to be lotted and resold so they can enjoy new homes
Lee Johnson
ASSISTANT AUCTION COORDINATOR
With over 30 years in the fine arts and 15 years as a rare book dealer, Lee has a well-trained eye for unique treasures. A former bibliographer, he brings deep expertise in researching and cataloging rare and collectible items, making him a real asset to The Consignors team. Ask Lee about his multiple talents as a musician, an artist, and researcher!
Lori Rukamp
AUCTION CATALOGER
After a successful career in the financial industry, Lori embraced the next chapter of life by pursuing her passion for unique finds. She began her career with The Downsizers and later moved to The Consignors, driven by her sharp eye, enthusiasm, and dedication to curating meaningful treasures for clients. Ask Lori about her love of travel and upcoming antique hunts!
Morgan Stratton
AUCTION CATALOGER
A lifelong love for vintage and antique items began early, working swap meets and markets alongside her grandpa and aunt. Years of curating her own eclectic collection led to a successful resale business and eventually to The Consignors. She loves giving all sorts of treasures new homes and new life. Ask Morgan about her five rescue dogs, and her van, Betty White!
Chandra Bashara
AUCTION CATALOGER
Operations
This behind-the-scenes team handles scheduling, move timelines, recruiting, finances, warehouse and supply logistics, and more to keep your project running smoothly and on track.
Alison Neufeld
SCHEDULING COORDINATOR
After 16 years in medical laboratory science, from forensic toxicology to COVID PCR testing for the NBA and NFL, Alison followed her passion for directly serving others. Now based in Chapel Hill, she supports clients and the team at The Downsizers with care, connection, and a commitment to core values. Ask Alison why she moved from Florida, and her keen skill for finding great deals in auctions throughout the area!
Melinda Kizer
BOOKKEEPER
With over 20 years of experience supporting seniors, Melinda has seen firsthand the challenges of transition. She has guided countless families through the moving process with compassion and patience. A dedicated advocate, Melinda is passionate about helping seniors navigate change and achieve outcomes that bring comfort and peace of mind. Ask Melinda about her love of dogs and the fact that she would prefer to work with seniors more than anything in the world!
Erika Stewart
ENGAGEMENT SPECIALIST
With 25+ years in communications and marketing, Erika is known for strategic guidance rooted in empathy and clarity. A longtime Triangle resident, she transitioned into real estate to support families navigating complex moves. At The Downsizers, she blends professional expertise with compassion, ensuring clients feel heard, valued, and confident. Ask Erika about her walking groups, and her spontaneous family dance parties!
Kate Barr
HUMAN RESOURCES COORDINATOR
With experience in long term care and nearly 15 years as General Manager of an international home care agency, Kate has extensive experience supporting older adults and their families. After moving to the Triangle to be near her family, she joined The Downsizers, first joining Client Services in the field and then bringing her experience to recruiting and interviewing new team members. Ask about her love of cooking and about when she owned a restaurant!
Tim Williams
SUPPLY MANAGER
With over 20 years in customer service, retail, and site management, Tim brings strong expertise and a deep local perspective from 25 years in the Chapel Hill/Durham area. Having experienced frequent moves himself and supporting his own family through senior transitions, he is committed to helping clients navigate life’s changes with care. Ask Tim about his interest in LEGOS, and his love for football!
Rachel Thomas
MARKETING COORDINATOR
Rachel brings experience in operations, marketing, and communications, including serving as Director of Operations for a community-focused app. Once a professional ballet dancer, she now helps craft and amplify The Downsizers’ story, bringing its message of compassion and clarity to a wider audience. Ask Rachel about her ballet career and the very interesting non-profit that she and her husband run that focuses on solar energy in Uganda!
Anthony Devito
SUPPLY ASSOCIATE
Anthony brings energy and experience to The Downsizers team, drawing on his background as a Physical Education teacher at Research Triangle High School. During his summer breaks from teaching, he worked as a mover, becoming well-acquainted with moving trucks, equipment, and the rhythm of transition. Ask Anthony about his precious dog!
Interested in learning more about what it's like to be a Downsizer?
Board Members
Elizabeth Hirsh
FOUNDER & ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER
Elizabeth is the Founder of The Downsizers, and serves as an Advisory Board Member, where she continues to support the mission she originally envisioned. She established The Downsizers with the goal of providing compassion, and trusted guidance during one of life’s most significant transitions.
Throughout her career, Elizabeth has worked closely with families navigating complex moves and life changes, building a company rooted in care and empathy. Her vision helped shape the culture and approach that define The Downsizers today: one centered on making the moving process as thoughtful, seamless, and supportive as possible.
As a Advisory Board Member, Elizabeth shares her experience and perspective to help guide the organization’s continued growth. She remains deeply proud of the team and the meaningful work they do each day. Elizabeth and her husband, Glenn, are currently traveling in their RV so they can be local and support their own family members through life's transitions.
Matt Riley
BOARD MEMBER
Matt is thrilled to be part of The Downsizers, an organization dedicated to bringing steadiness and clarity to clients during times of change. Throughout his career, he has specialized in the foundational development of organizations, focusing on the operational stability and integrity necessary to support internal teams and the clients they serve for the long term.
In his capacity as a Board Member, Matt leverages his extensive background in operations and finance to provide strategic oversight. He is a firm believer that the company’s true value lies in its role as a steady, guiding force for families, ensuring that the moving process is as seamless and transparent as possible.
Matt has moved multiple times, and appreciates the importance of a seamless journey when "home" is changing. He is excited to support the organization’s continued growth.
Kieth Forshew
BOARD MEMBER
Keith feels deeply honored to support the team at The Downsizers and the meaningful work they do for families every day.
Throughout his career, Keith has led and grown service businesses with a focus on strong culture, operational excellence, and long-term stewardship. When he first met the Downsizers team, he was immediately moved by their compassion, professionalism, and the care they bring into every home.
As a Board Member, Keith focuses on supporting the company’s long-term vision and thoughtful growth, ensuring the organization continues to serve clients with heart and respect.
Keith lives with his family in the Philadelphia area and values time outdoors, staying active, and being present for life’s important moments. He is grateful to Elizabeth for the trust she placed in him and is proud to support The Downsizers in its next chapter.
Ready to Make an Impact on Other's Lives Every Day?
