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Maria Garpestad
Director at Oxeon Venture Studio - MBA + MS Design Innovation
Professional Background
Maria Garpestad is a seasoned professional with a robust background in strategy, operations, and consulting. Having held prestigious roles at reputable organizations, she has demonstrated her ability to drive effective change and optimize business processes. As the former Chief Operating Officer at US College, Maria was instrumental in enhancing operational efficiencies and implementing strategic initiatives that contributed to the institution's growth and success. Her role allowed her to leverage her expertise in both leadership and strategic planning to elevate the educational experience and ensure institutional effectiveness.
Before her tenure as COO, Maria made significant contributions as a Change Management Strategy Business Analyst at Deloitte Consulting. In this capacity, she worked closely with clients to identify their needs and develop tailored strategies that facilitated smooth transitions during periods of organizational change. Her analytical skills and understanding of change management principles proved vital in helping organizations navigate the complexities associated with transformation. Additionally, Maria served as a Lead Consultant at Deloitte Consulting, where she further honed her consulting skills, offering data-driven insights and strategies that fostered business development and operational success.
Maria’s commitment to global issues is exemplified by her role as a Corps Fellow at the United Nations, where she engaged in initiatives aimed at international development and public policy. Her diverse experiences in various sectors have equipped her with valuable skills that resonate well in today's dynamic and interconnected world.
Education and Achievements
Maria Garpestad built her solid academic foundation with a Master of Science degree from Northwestern University. This advanced education has provided her with a comprehensive understanding of analytical methods and strategies essential for effective management and consulting. Prior to Northwestern, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Vanderbilt University, where she laid the groundwork for her professional journey. Furthermore, her studies at the McCormick School of Engineering augmented her engineering acumen, combining rigorous technical training with her management studies, which has uniquely positioned her for success in her roles.
Maria's educational and professional journeys reflect her dedication to continuous improvement and innovation. Through her commitment to learning and development, she has consistently sought opportunities to expand her expertise, contributing to her effectiveness as a leader and consultant.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Maria Garpestad has accomplished several noteworthy milestones. Her leadership as Chief Operating Officer at US College is a highlight of her professional journey, where not only did she enhance operational efficiencies, but she also implemented innovative strategies that supported the institution's mission. Her consulting roles at Deloitte consulting equipped her with the tools to contribute to multiple projects that led to measurable improvements in client performance and satisfaction.
Maria’s unique blend of engineering and management skills allows her to approach challenges from a multifaceted perspective, a trait that has greatly benefited her clients and institutions she has worked with. She actively engages with professional networks to share her insights and continue to drive positive change in her communities. Maria is also known for her generosity with her time and expertise, mentoring the next generation of professionals and sharing her knowledge in workshops and seminars.
