Martin Zapata. Photography by Revo Studios.
Martin Zapata, MBA
Business and IT Transformation Leader

Executive Overview

I specialize in building order from complexity, translating business strategies into operational and tactical execution while developing my teams in operational excellence and IT maturity. With over 20 leading enterprise technology improvements in manufacturing, engineering, and commercial service environments, I’ve served as the bridge between strategic vision and operational reality. My methodical approach combines MBA-level business acumen with hands-on technical credibility, enabling me to speak fluently across all organizational levels while maintaining strategic focus. As a nine-year Operational Excellence program leader, I don't just implement systems and workflows, I redesign the processes around them to eliminate waste, accelerate value realization, and enable sustainable growth. In pursuit of operational maturity, I’ve consistently transformed underperforming business and technology organizations into models of achievement through mentorship-driven leadership, clear frameworks based on industry best practices, and a bias toward empowering individuals to be the best they can be. I'm currently pursuing Director and VP-level opportunities where this translator leadership style, operational excellence mindset, and technical depth can create competitive advantage in complex, regulated, or high-growth environments.

Core Expertise

Strategic Technology Leadership

Enterprise IT Strategy & Governance | Digital Transformation | AI Strategy & Implementation | Cloud Architecture & Migration | M&A Technology Due Diligence & Integration

Enterprise Systems

ERP/CRM/PLM/MES Implementation | Microsoft D365 Ecosystem | Multi-Platform Integration | API Architecture | Business Intelligence && Analytics | Platform Agnostic

Operational Excellence

Lean/Six Sigma Process Transformation | Change Management | Business Process Reengineering | IT Service Management (ITIL) | Vendor & Budget Optimization

Risk & Compliance

Cybersecurity Frameworks | ITAR/ISO 9001/EPA Compliance | IT Governance | Disaster Recovery Planning | Audit Management | Incidence Response

Education

  • MS Information Systems (Anticipated completion: Fall 2026) | Cal State University - Fullerton
  • MBA, emphasis in Information Systems | Cal State University - Fullerton
  • BA in Communications | Biola University
Microsoft Certified Professional