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Alex Stavros
CEO, Embark Behavioral Health // Creating Joy // Business As a Force for Good
Professional Background
Alex Stavros is a dynamic leader and passionate advocate for mental health and social entrepreneurship. As the Chief Executive Officer of Embark Behavioral Health, Alex has dedicated his career to developing a comprehensive range of treatment programs that address the mental health needs of youth across the United States. With his extensive background in both public service and private enterprise, Alex brings a wealth of experience and insight to his role, ensuring that Embark provides effective and compassionate care for the individuals it serves.
Prior to his work at Embark, Alex co-founded and served as Managing Partner of Lia Capital Partners, where he focused on fostering the growth of mission-driven businesses. His role there leveraged his expertise in strategic operations and financial management, helping to elevate companies dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities. This experience perfectly aligns with his commitment to both equity and access to necessary behavioral health services.
Earlier in his career, Alex was the Associate Director of Firm Wide Operations at Cambridge Associates, the largest investment advisory firm serving not-for-profit entities worldwide. This role allowed him to gain invaluable insights into the complexities of financial management and operational excellence, skills that he continues to apply in his current position.
Alex also possesses significant experience in public service. He worked at the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), a U.S. government agency that mobilizes private investments to tackle pressing social challenges globally. His commitment to public service also extended to Capitol Hill, where he contributed to the Office of Congressman Jim Ramstad in Washington D.C. These roles have provided him with a unique perspective on the intersection of public policy and social entrepreneurship.
Education and Achievements
Alex Stavros is a proud alumnus of American University, where he graduated with Honors with a double degree in Economic Theory and International Development. His academic foundation laid the groundwork for his subsequent successes in business and public service. To deepen his understanding of the intricacies of business management, Alex pursued his MBA at Stanford University's prestigious Graduate School of Business, focusing on Social Entrepreneurship. This rigorous education complements his hands-on experiences and fuels his dedication to creating impactful change through his professional pursuits.
In addition to his degrees, Alex earned a Certificate in Public Management from Stanford University, which has enhanced his skills in leadership and strategic management in the public sector. He was also recognized as a Rising Fellow at the Hoover Institution, a prestigious think tank known for its rich involvement in policy research and advocacy. Alex's commitment to continuous learning and leadership development strengthens his ability to lead Embark Behavioral Health effectively and advocate for mental health services.
Involvement and Interests
Outside of his professional commitments, Alex takes great pleasure in immersing himself in the beauty of the ocean as a certified open water diver. He has actively contributed to the Monterey Bay Aquarium by serving as a Board Fellow, further exemplifying his dedication to environmental conservation and education. His personal values and commitment to community growth led him to join the Board of Peruvian Partners, a nonprofit organization focused on connecting North Americans with families in Peru who face abject poverty. This initiative is deeply personal for Alex, as he grew up in Peru, where he experienced firsthand the challenges faced by vulnerable communities and the transformative power of support and advocacy.
Alex's passion for endurance sports illustrates his dedication to maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle. He is a proud resident of Phoenix, Arizona, where he enjoys family life with his wife, Maria-Paz, and their two beautiful children. Maria-Paz, whom Alex describes as having "the most important job in the world," is dedicated to raising their children—a testament to the couple's strong family values and commitment to nurturing the next generation.
Conclusion
Alex Stavros exemplifies a unique blend of business acumen, social consciousness, and continuous personal growth. His journey from a childhood spent among the youth of Lima’s slums to becoming the CEO of a leading behavioral health organization showcases his unwavering dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of others. With a robust educational background, diverse professional experiences, and a passionate commitment to public service, Alex's career is a testament to the incredible impact that one individual's vision and determination can have on communities and society as a whole. Through his various roles and initiatives, he continues to inspire those around him and work towards a brighter, healthier future for all.
