Tom Zazueta

Professional Background

Tom Zazueta is an empathetic leader who has dedicated over 20 years to navigating the dynamic intersection of technology, innovation, and creativity. With a robust portfolio of experience, Tom exhibits exceptional global strategic product planning and brand-building expertise, equipping him with the skills needed to handle complex responsibilities in various industries. Throughout his career, Tom has made significant strides, focusing on disruptive innovation and constructing effective communication pathways that foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders. His leadership style is engaging, combining clarity of thought with a good sense of humor, which enables him to convey intricate information and cultivate consensus among key clients and executive leaders.

Tom's professional journey includes several pivotal roles in successful start-ups, where he challenged the status quo and advocated for customer-first product innovations. His results-oriented approach is complemented by strong organizational skills and a dependable nature, qualities that have made him a standout product professional in an ever-evolving market landscape. As a team player and a creative problem solver, Tom continues to leverage his extensive experience to drive initiatives that not only meet but exceed customer expectations.

Education and Achievements

Tom Zazueta's educational achievements illustrate his commitment to harnessing the power of digital innovation. He studied Digital Business Strategy: Harnessing Our Digital Future at MIT Sloan Executive Education, gaining insights into the strategic implications of digital advances. Additionally, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Computers in Art & Design, Research, and Education from San Jose State University, blending creativity with technical expertise. Further enhancing his background, he studied Business and Marketing at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, solidifying his foundation in key business principles necessary for driving product and brand strategies in today's marketplace.

Over the years, Tom has held multiple influential positions across various organizations. Notably, he was a Co-Founder and President at Sound Union, where he contributed significantly to shaping the company's vision and strategic priorities. In his role as Senior Customer Success Manager at Paravision, he fostered strong relationships with clients, ensuring satisfaction and loyalty.

As the Founder and CEO of DataMagic LLC, Tom demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit, steering the company to innovate and excel within the data management sector. His tenure as Chief Marketing Officer at Buckingham Wealth Partners highlights his proficiency in integrating marketing strategies that enhance brand visibility and customer engagement.

At Loring Ward, Tom held the dual roles of Chief Experience Officer and Chief Marketing Officer, further exemplifying his versatility in both product and experience management. His leadership at iD Tech, Inc. (Internal Drive) as Chief Marketing Officer solidified his expertise in developing initiatives that cater to diverse market demands.

Tom's career at HyperRelevance (formerly Coakley Heagerty) reflects significant achievements as he served in multiple roles, including CEO, Chief Marketing Strategist, and President. His trajectory within eBay, Inc., where he held positions such as Sr. Program Manager, Manager of Tools & Reporting, and Sr. Project Manager, illustrates his ability to operate at the forefront of digital marketing and project management in one of the world's largest online marketplaces. Additionally, Tom has contributed to project management efforts for leading companies such as Apple, demonstrating his adaptability across different domains and technology levels.

Achievements

Tom Zazueta's professional narrative is characterized by a series of noteworthy achievements that extend beyond job titles. His aptitude for fostering innovation and enhancing user experiences in various sectors has reaffirmed his reputation as a thought leader at the nexus of technology and customer engagement. Tom's ventures have consistently emphasized a customer-first philosophy, evident in the successful initiatives he has led throughout his career.

Moreover, his ability to communicate complex information effectively has played a critical role in building lasting relationships with clients and stakeholders. Tom is known for engaging conversations that not only promote understanding but also inspire collaborative efforts toward achieving business goals.

With a wealth of experience across diverse environments, including startups and established firms, Tom Zazueta has precisely positioned himself as a valued asset in the fields of digital marketing, product development, and user experience. Looking forward, he is always eager to leverage his skills, insights, and experiences to connect with like-minded professionals.

Questions

• How did Tom Zazueta develop his expertise in brand building and disruptive innovation?
• What inspired Tom Zazueta to venture into the fields of artificial intelligence and machine learning?
• In what ways has Tom Zazueta contributed to successful start-ups and how did those experiences shape his leadership approach?
• How does Tom Zazueta leverage his educational background to inform his strategies in digital transformation?
• Can you elaborate on Tom Zazueta's role in enhancing customer experience in his various leadership positions?