Aleo announces new strategic executive hires

The team at the Aleo Network Foundation is excited to announce two new additions to its executive team as the foundation and community work to accelerate the adoption of zero-knowledge technology to protect privacy and security worldwide. 

Today, BJ Mahal joins the foundation as the new Head of Partnerships to lead strategic collaborations and expand ecosystem alliances and Josh Hawkins joins as the EVP of Strategy, Policy & Communications to bring our mission and vision to a wider global audience. 

These key leadership appointments reflect the foundation’s commitment to helping the network reach its full potential by bringing the promise of a decentralized, private world to everyone.

About BJ

With a record of building relationships over several high tech industries, BJ Mahal joins the Aleo Network Foundation as Head of Partnerships. In this strategic role, he will lead collaborations, expand ecosystem alliances, and drive adoption of Aleo's groundbreaking zero-knowledge technology across Web3 and enterprise sectors. 

Bringing over two decades of experience in business development and strategic partnerships across the blockchain, fintech, and technology sectors, Mahal’s impressive career includes key roles at prominent companies such as FalconX, Apple, Mastercard, Deloitte, Microsoft, and Goldman Sachs. Most recently, he served as Head of Partnerships at FalconX, a leading digital asset trading platform, where he successfully expanded the company's strategic alliances and market presence.​

About Josh

Hawkins joins from Circle Financial, the global fintech firm behind the $60 billion USDC stablecoin, where he served as Senior Vice President of Marketing & Communications, most recently building a team in Strategy and Policy focused on strategic positioning and global thought leadership, playing a central role in shaping the company’s voice and executive presence.

At Circle, Hawkins helped guide the company through its rapid ascent as one of the most trusted names in digital assets. He led global communications strategy during critical moments of industry evolution, helped manage regulatory engagement across key markets around the world, and was a public voice for transparency, trust, and responsible innovation in crypto. His leadership extended beyond media and messaging — helping Circle navigate policy frameworks, expand its global footprint, and build institutional confidence in the crypto economy.

For more about careers at Aleo, check out our open roles.