Rayford Etherton

About Rayford Etherton

I founded Janus Consultants in 2017, with the goal of working with attorneys who are representing victims of systemic failures and the underlying conduct causing those failures. In our consultancy, we use System Dynamics simulation modeling as a core technology to support and extend our legal research, analysis, and recommendations on complex causation and impact issues. Our primary focus is identifying and building expert teams, expert witness preparation, and trial management strategy. Since 2018, our team of experts has worked with firms across the country on the opioid litigation. We are currently retained to work with these same and other firms on the opioid litigation against Pharmacy Benefit Managers. This work, combined with years of working with some of the best subject matter experts on opioid use disorder, led to the formation in 2023 of The Helios Alliance, an Alabama nonprofit LLC. Helios has developed a first-of-its-kind computer simulation platform that combines health economics, stigma reduction, prevention, and advocacy to create comprehensive solutions. Our first focus is addressing and abating the impacts of the ongoing opioid crisis. Specifically, we work with decision makers to assess their current recovery ecosystems, identify gaps in services, and develop programs and plans to assist with all aspects of opioid abatement. Importantly, our approach allows us to monitor progress during all stages of programming and allow quick pivots, if needed, as communities change and evolve over time. Finally, our simulation platform can predict impact before investment – leading to more efficient spending and programming. Core Focus Areas- Evidence-Based Solution Design- Complex Problem Resolution- Strategic Alliance Leadership- Public Health & Safety Innovation- Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration- Technology Integration for Social Impact Our approach is built on- Intellectual rigor and evidence-based methodologies- Translation of complex challenges into actionable solutions- Effective collaboration across disciplines

Experience

1. Founder Leadership Team

   The Helios Alliance

   Jan 2023 — Present

   The Helios Alliance is a group of like-minded individuals and organizations with a common purpose: to effectively improve health, safety, and the quality of life using innovative, transformative technologies and methodologies. The Helios Alliance is at the forefront of addressing the opioid crisis through a multi-disciplinary approach, combining cutting-edge advanced intelligence with time-proven methodologies to provide comprehensive solutions to the systemic challenges of the epidemic. By integrating System Dynamics modeling with predictive analytics, our team can better understand the complexities posed to individuals, communities, and states ravaged by opioid use.

Education

• The University of Alabama

  Bachelor of Arts - BA

  1973 — 1977

• The University of Alabama School of Law

  Doctor of Law - JD

  1977 — 1980