Laura
Business Leader | Strategic Operations & Investment Executive
New York, US.About
A highly accomplished and entrepreneurial MBA graduate from Columbia University with a dual background in Business Management and Fashion Design. Proven expertise in investment strategy, portfolio management, and spearheading innovative operational solutions across diverse industries including finance, hospitality, and apparel. Adept at driving growth, optimizing processes, and leveraging financial acumen to achieve significant business outcomes, positioning for leadership roles that demand strategic vision and hands-on execution.
Work
Zero + Maria Cornejo
|Co-Founder & Operations Lead
New York, NY, US
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Summary
Led strategic operations and business development for an overseas trade and custom apparel company, driving innovation in manufacturing and supply chain.
Highlights
Transformed a 2000 sqm idle factory into a 'designer-friendly micro-factory,' significantly reducing the industry-standard minimum order quantity (MOQ) from 3000 units to an industry-first 50 units for small brands.
Pioneered the integration of unconventional and sustainable materials, including biodegradable PU, overcoming traditional factory rejections to expand product offerings and market appeal.
Mitigated cash flow challenges by implementing a direct peer-to-peer cryptocurrency payment system with manufacturers, reducing cross-border payment cycles from 60 days and eliminating platform holding fees.
Developed a 'fabric bank' by pre-purchasing 30 types of sustainable materials, which decreased small order production costs and expedited turnaround times.
Vanderbilt Hospitality Group (VHG)
|Hotel Portfolio & Operations Manager
New York, NY, US
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Summary
Managed a portfolio of 12 boutique hotels across key global cities, overseeing acquisition, renovation, and operational strategies.
Highlights
Directed the acquisition, renovation, and operational management of 12 luxury boutique hotels in strategic locations including New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and Tokyo.
Implemented operational efficiencies and strategic asset enhancements to maximize property value and guest experience across the portfolio.
Navigated complex market dynamics and managed portfolio performance during a period of significant industry change, including the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure high standards of service delivery and asset profitability prior to market downturns.
BELLA LUNA Cosmetics
|Co-Manager | Business Partner
New York, NY, US
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Summary
Co-managed operations and business development for a luxury beauty retail chain, expanding its presence with multiple physical stores across New York City.
Highlights
Contributed to the strategic growth and daily operations of a luxury cosmetics retail chain, expanding its presence with multiple physical stores across New York City and Manhattan.
Managed inventory, sales, and customer experience initiatives to enhance brand visibility and market share in a competitive beauty industry.
Developed and executed marketing strategies that resonated with target demographics, fostering strong customer loyalty and repeat business.
Oversaw financial performance and resource allocation, ensuring efficient business operations and profitability.
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
|Quantitative Research & Portfolio Management Intern
New York, NY, US
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Summary
Supported senior advisors in managing high-value client portfolios and provided critical market intelligence during a pivotal economic period.
Highlights
Assisted in the management and allocation analysis of client asset portfolios totaling over $20 billion during a key Federal Reserve interest rate hike cycle.
Authored weekly market briefs for senior advisors, providing insights on market trends and emerging opportunities.
Tracked and analyzed the burgeoning tech IPO wave, gaining firsthand experience during Google's landmark initial public offering in 2004.
Conducted quantitative research to inform investment decisions, contributing to strategic portfolio adjustments.
Volunteer
Harlem Community Initiatives
|Community Volunteer
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Summary
Contributed to local community development and support programs in the Harlem district, enhancing community well-being and engagement.
Highlights
Participated in various community service activities, supporting local residents and fostering positive neighborhood engagement.
Collaborated with community leaders and fellow students on initiatives aimed at improving local well-being.
Developed a deeper understanding of social impact and community needs through active involvement in local projects.
Education
Columbia University
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Master of Business Administration (MBA) & Bachelor of Arts
Business Management, Fashion Design
Courses
Financial Markets & Investments
Strategic Management
Fashion Business & Merchandising
Supply Chain Management
Entrepreneurial Finance
Global Economic Policy
Languages
English
Skills
Product & Design
Fashion Design, Apparel Manufacturing, Sustainable Sourcing, Product Development, Brand Development.
Leadership & Strategy
Cross-functional Leadership, Stakeholder Management, Problem Solving, Market Analysis, Negotiation, Business Strategy.
Financial Management
Investment Analysis, Portfolio Management, Quantitative Research, Risk Management, Financial Modeling, Cryptocurrency Trading, Asset Allocation.
Business Operations
Strategic Planning, Business Development, Operations Management, Supply Chain Optimization, International Trade, Retail Management, Project Management, Entrepreneurship.
Interests
Hobbies
Golf, Diving, Reading, Music, Travel, Skiing.
References
Available upon request
References available upon request.