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Maria Hermoso
Director, Only the Brave Foundation
Professional Background
Maria Hermoso is a seasoned professional in social entrepreneurship and project management, with a rich tapestry of experience spanning across various prestigious organizations. Currently serving as the Director of the Only the Brave Foundation at OTB, she is dedicated to fostering social change and promoting sustainable initiatives that align with the foundation's mission. Maria's leadership role at the foundation showcases her commitment to social impact, where she orchestrates projects that aim to create a positive difference in communities around the world.
Prior to her current position, Maria honed her expertise as a Senior Project Manager at both the Lehman Brothers Foundation for Europe and the Middle East and the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship. During her time at Lehman Brothers, she expertly managed projects that bridged financial services and social contributions, ensuring the effective delivery of impactful initiatives. Her role at the Schwab Foundation provided her with an invaluable opportunity to work closely with social entrepreneurs across Latin America and Europe, enabling her to develop a keen understanding of the dynamic landscape of social initiatives and challenges across these regions.
Education and Achievements
Maria's strong educational foundation is rooted in her studies at two prominent institutions. She studied Social Entrepreneurship at INSEAD, a leading business school renowned for its innovative approach to education and commitment to fostering social and environmental sustainability. This program provided her with critical insights into the principles of social entrepreneurship, equipping her with the necessary skills to drive impactful social projects.
Additionally, Maria holds a degree in Business Administration from Universidad del País Vasco/Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea. This broad business background enables her to approach challenges from both a financial and operational perspective, making her an effective leader in the non-profit sector. Her educational experiences have been instrumental in shaping her strategic and analytical thinking abilities, which she leverages in her current and past roles to elevate the impact of social initiatives.
Achievements
Throughout her illustrious career, Maria has achieved significant milestones that underscore her expertise in project management and social entrepreneurship. At the Only the Brave Foundation, she has successfully led various projects that not only support local communities but also empower individuals through sustainable development practices. Her focus on collaboration and partnership building has resulted in fruitful alliances with multiple stakeholders, making her a key player in the field.
Her previous tenure at the Lehman Brothers Foundation and the Schwab Foundation has also been marked by remarkable successes. Maria led initiatives that addressed social inequalities and fostered entrepreneurship in underserved regions. Her ability to navigate complex financial landscapes while advocating for social responsibility is a testament to her skill and dedication. Collectively, these experiences position Maria Hermoso as a formidable force in the realm of social entrepreneurship, with a passion for effecting meaningful change in society.
