MARCO ALVARADO
Belen,G
Summary
Experienced Professional with a Passion for Impact. As a seasoned professional, I bring a data-driven mindset and unwavering commitment to achieving goals. My enthusiasm for learning and teaching aligns seamlessly with the dynamic corporate and entrepreneurial landscapes. My success is rooted in qualities such as empathy, self-reliance, resilience, and determination.
Overview
1
1
Certification
Work History
Business School Dean
Universidad Latinoamericana de la Ciencia y la Tecnología (ULACIT)
01.2023
- As the Business School Dean at Universidad Latinoamericana de la Ciencia y la Tecnología (ULACIT), I have the privilege of overseeing a dynamic portfolio of programs
- Our offerings stand at the pinnacle of excellence, significantly contributing to ULACIT’s reputation as a respected institution
- Here’s an overview of my role within each career path: Management Program: Guiding future leaders through strategic thinking and effective decision-making
- Accounting: Nurturing financial acumen and ethical practices
- Business Bilingual: Empowering students with language proficiency and cross-cultural competence
- Economy: Equipping learners to navigate complex economic landscapes
- Marketing and Communications: Fostering creativity and strategic communication
- Digital Animation and Design Careers: Cultivating artistic talent and technical expertise
- Postgraduate Programs: Enriching professionals’ knowledge and skills for career advancement
- Key Achievements: Program Suite Transformation: Spearheaded a suite of distinguished programs, elevating ULACIT’s reputation for excellence in management, accounting, bilingual business, economics, marketing, communications, digital animation, design, and over ten prestigious postgraduate offerings
- Strategic Implementation: Devised and executed a strategic plan, aligning program quality and relevance with the evolving demands of the corporate, innovation, and entrepreneurial sectors
- Notably, initiatives like Technovation have driven impactful change
- Global Collaboration: Championed the development of ambitious COIL projects, fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange with leading global universities
- This has significantly enhanced research and educational impact
- Student Experience Enhancement: Successfully boosted postgraduate student satisfaction from 51% to over 80%, as evidenced by the latest Net Promoter Score (NPS) assessment
- Our commitment to continuous improvement ensures a transformative student experience.
Executive Director
Universidad Politécnica Internacional Costa Rica
03.2020
- As the Executive Director at Universidad Politécnica Internacional Costa Rica, I spearheaded an exceptional academic and administrative experience
- Here’s a closer look at my impactful contributions: Innovative E-Learning: I revolutionized our e-learning platform, empowering students to transcend perceived limitations
- Additionally, I facilitated a parallel online experience for our sister institution in Panama City
- Strategic Leadership: As the overseer of the entire academic unit, I catalyzed new revenue streams and spearheaded research and development efforts
- Our unique educational products reflect our commitment to excellence
- Quality Extension Mechanism: I conceptualized and implemented a professional and academic extension mechanism, ensuring adherence to our organization’s high standards of quality and sustainability
- Global Collaborations: By initiating and nurturing strategic alliances with institutions in the United States, Spain, Panama, Chile, and beyond, I significantly expanded our course offerings and enriched our academic portfolio.
Director Center of Innovation & Technology Transfer (CIT - ULACIT)
Universidad Latinoamericana de la Ciencia y la Tecnología (ULACIT)
11.2019
- As the Director of the Center of Innovation & Technology Transfer (CIT) at Universidad Latinoamericana de la Ciencia y la Tecnología (ULACIT), I implemented several impactful strategies to elevate the educational experience
- Here are actionable steps based on best practices and research: Enhance Quality Instruction: Consider scaling up quality instruction by offering prerecorded lessons or conducting live virtual classes
- This approach ensures broader reach and flexibility for diverse learners
- Facilitate Differentiated Instruction: Implement computer-adaptive learning to tailor content to individual student needs
- Provide live one-on-one tutoring to address specific challenges and enhance personalized learning
- Expand Practice Opportunities: Create ample opportunities for students to apply their skills in real-world scenarios
- Practical experience is invaluable for mastery
- Increase Engagement: Utilize interactive technologies such as videos, games, and simulations
- Engaging content fosters deeper understanding and retention
- Collaborate with Industry: Maintain strong ties with business partners to ensure program relevance
- Industry insights drive curriculum enhancements
- Monitor and Evaluate: Regularly assess program effectiveness through data-driven evaluation
- Use insights to make informed decisions and refine offerings
- Leverage Emerging Technologies: Stay abreast of the latest educational technologies
- Explore how innovations like AI, AR/VR, and adaptive learning can be integrated into your programs for enhanced learning outcomes.
Director of Research and Entrepreneurship (Innovation Hub)
Universidad Latinoamericana de la Ciencia y la Tecnología (ULACIT)
02.2019
- As the Director of Research and Entrepreneurship at Universidad Latinoamericana de la Ciencia y la Tecnología (ULACIT), I spearheaded initiatives that transformed our ecosystem
- Here are actionable steps to foster innovation and success: Expand Global Partnerships: Collaborate with universities and industry partners worldwide
- Exchange knowledge, share best practices, and create a vibrant network
- Leverage Technology: Utilize digital platforms for virtual entrepreneurship camps and engaging competitions
- Reach a broader audience beyond physical boundaries
- Impact Research Focus: Conduct and publish research that measures the impact of entrepreneurship programs on students and the community
- Data-driven insights drive improvement
- Diversify Funding Streams: Explore avenues such as grants, sponsorships, and strategic partnerships
- Secure additional funding to fuel research and entrepreneurial activities
- Alumni Engagement: Tap into the expertise of alumni entrepreneurs
- Their mentorship and networking support benefit current students
- Dynamic Curriculum: Integrate the latest trends in entrepreneurship and innovation into the curriculum
- Keep it relevant, adaptive, and forward-thinking
- Empower Student Ventures: Support student-led ventures through incubation programs
- Provide access to resources, mentorship, and expert guidance
- Showcase Success Stories: Amplify program outcomes through media channels
- Attract potential students and partners by sharing inspiring success stories.
Founder, President & Chair
PIELSEGURA COSMETICA ARTESANA RL
06.2016
- Personal Care, organic, vegan & hand made artisan products.
Chief Executive Officer
La República
10.2012
- Guided a robust team of over 400 dedicated professionals, I ensured our information and advertising operations remained cutting-edge and authentic as we embraced the digital revolution
- With a proactive approach, I led the charge against the tide of technological change, swiftly adapting to meet the evolving needs of our clients and audience
- My global oversight extended to key locations, including Seattle, Quintana Roo/Mexico, Chicago, and across South America, where I evaluated and supervised operations
- This culminated in the strategic acquisition and rapid deployment of a state-of-the-art, $40M high-tech printing press, setting a new industry benchmark for efficiency and innovation.
Senior Technical Consultant
Instituto Interamericano de Cooperación para la Agricultura (IICA)
02.2004
- Conducted a comprehensive audit and designed innovative industrial operations at IICA’s production facility, focusing on a range of consultative due diligence topics to optimize performance and compliance.
Chief Operating Officer
La República
09.2002
- As a strategic leader, I orchestrated the operational framework of our company, directing key units such as production, commercial printing sales, and customer service
- My leadership was instrumental in establishing clear objectives and surpassing annual financial targets through meticulous cost accounting and resource optimization
- Leveraging Lean-Six Sigma methodology and agile sprint designs, I addressed challenges and spurred growth in real-time, fostering unparalleled teamwork within the printing industry.
Retail Commercial Director
Chicago Sun-Times
09.2000
- As a co-author and integral member of the implementation team, I contributed to the strategic sales plan that fortified our position as a leader in single copy sales throughout the greater Chicago metro area
- Guiding a robust team of over 500 members, we propelled America’s 5th largest newsprint publication to new heights
- We achieved a 2% increase in net circulation sales by pioneering over 6,000 new points of sale, thanks to our innovative approach to 1:1 sales meetings
- I oversaw the CRM protocol and commercial monitoring system, ensuring optimal performance and customer engagement
- Our team launched targeted ‘retail’ campaigns in collaboration with major companies like BP Amoco, 7 Eleven, Quiznos, Subway, Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, Chicago Auto Show, and Walmart, featuring the Chicago Sun-Times
- These campaigns were meticulously crafted to align with each business partner’s unique brand, enhancing stakeholder value.
Finance & Distribution Manager
La República
03.1997
- Strategically designed, executed, and managed comprehensive new distribution networks, revolutionizing the country’s distribution channels to optimize performance
- My leadership resulted in a significant reduction of expenses, exceeding $800K, while simultaneously launching innovative campaigns that emphasized our commitment to quality service and introduced a diverse portfolio of new products
- Fostered a culture of open communication with distribution agents, enhancing the perception of quality and empathy, which was pivotal in achieving a 2% monthly sales increase in rural areas during the 99-00 fiscal period
- Spearheaded a remarkable 13% revenue increase year over year through 2000, demonstrating effective growth strategies
- Directed the allocation and oversight of a $150K budget for the development of a groundbreaking application, which successfully replaced the existing CRM system, streamlining the management of prospects and clients
- Implemented customer-centric initiatives that boosted customer retention rates by 12%, driving consistent and sustained growth over two consecutive fiscal years.
Education
Doctor of Philosophy - PhD - Business Managment- Corporate Direction & innovation
Technologic Institute of Costa Rica - TEC
11.2021
Bacllicher, Ingeniería Industrial -
ULACIT
03.2027
Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies - Business Administration and Management, Entrepreneurship
Harvard Business School
12.2020
Master's / Business Administration - Banking, Corporate, Finance
ULACIT
01.2003
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) - International Business/Trade/Commerce
ULACIT
01.2003
C1 - FLUID, Writing and verbal communication skills. -
Centro Cultural Costarricense Norteamericano
01.1999
Skills
- Operations Management
- Productivity Improvement
- Team Leadership
- Contingency Planning
- Work Flow Design
- Logistics Management
- Youth Empowerment
- Delegation
- Goal Oriented
- Financial Analysis
- Strategic Thinking: I excel in communication-based negotiation and creating win-win scenarios During my tenure at the Sun-Times, one of the largest US news media outlets in Chicago, I demonstrated expertise in navigating complex situations
- Goal-Oriented Approach: My track record includes reflective analytics and decision-making With a customer-centric mindset, I’ve consistently driven exponential benefits As a leader at La República, Costa Rica’s premier professional news source, I fostered impactful outcomes
- Empowerment and Innovation: At ULACIT, I pioneered entrepreneurship and innovation programs These initiatives empowered students, enhancing their skill development and career progression
- Continuous Improvement: I championed strategic initiatives focused on innovation and scalability across various disciplines at ULACIT My commitment to ongoing improvement ensures lasting impact
Websites
Certification
- Crestcom BPM -1 year leadership incubator covering all the practical competencies of leadership including how to build a team, how to inspire innovation, how to orient toward results, how to become customer centric and how to motivate others., Crestcom International, 04/2015, 04/2016
- Project Management Professional (PMP), PMI Rochester, In process
- The Five-Step Creative Process, LinkedIn
- Product Innovation for Product Managers, LinkedIn
- Data Science Foundations: Data Engineering, LinkedIn
- Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies, Harvard Business School
Publications
- The Forgetting Curve in Entrepreneurship: Decaying Learning Benefits of Past Entrepreneurial Experience” Small Business Economics - February 19, 2024
- Convierta Sus Ideas en Negocios Reales” Vida & Éxito - October 9, 2023
- Un Gran Trabajo” Vida y Éxito - July 4, 2023
- Decretos del Arroz y la Ausente Negociación Política Hacia el Cambio” Periódico La República - January 3, 2023
- La Educación y Formación en el Emprendimiento” Periódico La República - December 7, 2022
- El Momento Justo y Necesario para Retomar la Senda y Reconectar Nuestra Educación Tras el ‘Apagón’” Periódico El Financiero - March 11, 2022
- Nuestra Crisis en el Segmento Educativo Requiere de una Vigorosa y Renovada Política Pública” Periódico El Financiero - December 19, 2021
- La Educación del Futuro Requiere de Perpetuidad, Audacia en la Innovación y Coherencia en las Buenas Prácticas” Periódico Extra - September 30, 2021
- The Impact of Financial Bootstrapping Techniques on Perceived Performance: An Empirical Analysis of Costa Rican SMEs” International Journal of Business Environment - May 6, 2021
- Experience as a Catalyst of Export Destinations: The Ambidextrous Connection Between International Experience and Past Entrepreneurial Experience” International Business Review - October 29, 2020
- Financial Bootstrapping Among Costa Rican Small Businesses: An Exploratory Study” TEC Empresarial - January 7, 2020
- Export Diversity and the Relevance of Different Forms of Market Experience” Inderscience Publishers - February 19, 2019
Timeline
Business School Dean
Universidad Latinoamericana de la Ciencia y la Tecnología (ULACIT)
01.2023
Executive Director
Universidad Politécnica Internacional Costa Rica
03.2020
Director Center of Innovation & Technology Transfer (CIT - ULACIT)
Universidad Latinoamericana de la Ciencia y la Tecnología (ULACIT)
11.2019
Director of Research and Entrepreneurship (Innovation Hub)
Universidad Latinoamericana de la Ciencia y la Tecnología (ULACIT)
02.2019
Founder, President & Chair
PIELSEGURA COSMETICA ARTESANA RL
06.2016
Chief Executive Officer
La República
10.2012
Senior Technical Consultant
Instituto Interamericano de Cooperación para la Agricultura (IICA)
02.2004
Chief Operating Officer
La República
09.2002
Retail Commercial Director
Chicago Sun-Times
09.2000
Finance & Distribution Manager
La República
03.1997
Doctor of Philosophy - PhD - Business Managment- Corporate Direction & innovation
Technologic Institute of Costa Rica - TEC
Bacllicher, Ingeniería Industrial -
ULACIT
Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies - Business Administration and Management, Entrepreneurship
Harvard Business School
Master's / Business Administration - Banking, Corporate, Finance
ULACIT
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) - International Business/Trade/Commerce
ULACIT
C1 - FLUID, Writing and verbal communication skills. -
Centro Cultural Costarricense Norteamericano
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