In volatile times, it takes vision and experience to maintain operational efficiency, organizational effectiveness, and financial profitability. That’s where Ara comes in. He guides strategic sourcing, procurement, and supplier negotiation initiatives that have tangible financial impact. For example, he worked with the chief procurement officer of a Fortune 500 consumer products company to transform organizational design and effectiveness, processes, and strategic category management—delivering EBITDA improvements of $100 million.
Through proactive assessment and planning, he helps companies pivot quickly during crisis and disruption—COVID-19 supply chain challenges were a prime example. He has developed and led supplier relationship management programs that reduced risks, promoted collaboration to build trust and favored status, and ensured continuity of products, services, and pricing.
He joined West Monroe in 2022 from EY-Parthenon, where he was a senior director of strategy and operations. He worked with senior leaders of corporate and private equity clients to create and deliver transformation programs for growth, profitability, and risk mitigation. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business from California State University, Fresno, and an MBA degree from Babson College.
What makes Ara different
Having lived and worked internationally in Asia and Europe—and across multiple industries and sectors—he has a robust understanding of international business etiquette, protocols, and personal styles and preferences. He is fluent in Armenian and is learning to speak French.
He founded and co-founded boutique consultancies, a health and wellness business (he is a Certified Natural Health Professional), as well as a non-profit organization.
Where Ara makes an impact
Integrity, open and honest communication, and leading by example are pillars by which he lives. He actively seeks out coaching and mentoring opportunities in the workplace and community and throughout his travels, which has led to many long-lasting, fruitful relationships.