Leadership
NEAL TEPEL
Founder and Publisher of LaborPress
Neal Tepel is the visionary behind LaborPress, founding the organization in 2009 to elevate the voices of workers and unions through trusted, high-impact media. With more than 30 years of experience as an educator and administrator in New York City’s school system—including serving as Chairperson for the Committee on Special Education—Neal transitioned into labor communications, consulting with unions and
advocacy organizations to shape public narratives and policy.
He also served as Assistant to the Executive Director of AFSCME District Council 1707, deepening his commitment to labor rights and union leadership. Under Neal’s direction, LaborPress has grown into one of the most respected labor news outlets in the country, reaching thousands daily across digital, print, podcast, and event platforms. His leadership continues to guide LaborPress in its mission to inform, connect, and champion the labor movement.
STEPHANIE WEST
Executive Director of Strategic Planning and Event Coordination
Stephanie West has been a cornerstone of LaborPress for more than 15 years, where she has shaped its growth and the organization’s mission of amplifying labor news and advocacy. She joined the organization in its earliest days—just one year after its founding—and has been a driving force behind its maturation and evolution ever since.
In her role, Stephanie oversees strategic initiatives and leads the planning and execution of signature events that bring together labor leaders, unions, and community partners; she has also been one of the leading voices in labor journalism. Her leadership has helped position LaborPress as one of the most respected voices in labor news, ensuring its ability to adapt and thrive through change.
Through her vision and dedication, Stephanie has helped establish LaborPress as a trusted and influential resource for working people.
DARREN YELIN
Executive Director of Business Development
Darren Yelin brings over 30 years of expertise in media and marketing, specializing in helping brands reach and resonate with union audiences. As a seasoned strategist, he has led integrated campaigns across broadcast, digital, out-of-home, podcasts, and live events—always focused on driving traffic, delivering ROI, and elevating brand trust.
At LaborPress, Darren spearheads business development efforts, forging high-impact partnerships with mission-aligned organizations and creating sponsorship opportunities that connect directly with labor leaders and their communities. Known for his ability to translate a brand’s message into meaningful engagement, Darren plays a critical role in amplifying voices that matter in the labor space.
DR. KERRI O'BRIEN
Executive Director of Strategy and Growth
Kerri O’Brien brings over two decades of leadership experience across healthcare, workforce development, and media innovation. As Chief Operating Officer and a strategic advisor to multiple healthcare and labor-facing initiatives, Kerri has built a reputation for translating frontline insights into scalable solutions that drive access, equity, and engagement.
She has led national provider recruitment efforts, launched digital health platforms focused on chronic care and preventive services, and designed union-facing wellness programs tailored to the unique needs of working-class families. Her career spans clinical operations, training, SaaS implementation, and direct-to-consumer health services.
At LaborPress, Kerri plays a pivotal role in developing member-centered solutions and connecting healthcare innovators with the labor community. She is known for her ability to synthesize complex issues into actionable strategies.
