Senior Partnership Engagement Manager
Armando Perlaza is the Senior Partnership Engagement Manager and a retired U.S. Army First Sergeant with more than 20 years of leadership experience spanning the military, education, nonprofit, and private sectors. Originally from Cali, Colombia, Armando brings a unique multicultural perspective and a passion for connecting individuals, organizations, and communities through meaningful partnerships, workforce development, and professional growth opportunities.
Armando holds a Master of Science in Human Resources and Organizational Development from the University of Louisville and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Post University. Throughout his distinguished military career, serving in both the United States Marine Corps and the United States Army, he developed extensive expertise in leadership, talent development, operations management, strategic planning, and community engagement. As a senior enlisted leader, he successfully led large, diverse teams, mentored hundreds of service members, and cultivated strong relationships with community organizations, educational institutions, and corporate partners.
Following his military retirement, Armando continued his commitment to leadership and workforce development in the civilian sector. He served as Director of Instructors for the Houston Independent School District (HISD), and Regional Operations Manager for a Construction Staffing Company, where he provided leadership and oversight for instructional programs, operational performance, staff development, and strategic initiatives across multiple locations. In this role, he collaborated with educators, administrators, and community stakeholders to support student success, organizational effectiveness, and talent development.
Armando’s professional experience also includes partnership development, stakeholder engagement, program management, team building, and fostering collaborations that support organizational growth and community empowerment. He possesses exceptional leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills and is fluent in both English and Spanish. His ability to connect with individuals from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds has enabled him to effectively serve communities while promoting inclusion, collaboration, and mutual respect.
Armando is passionate about helping others achieve their personal and professional goals. He is committed to mentoring emerging leaders, developing high-performing teams, and creating opportunities that strengthen individuals, organizations, and communities. Driven by a strong belief in service and the power of relationships, Armando remains dedicated to advancing leadership development, fostering strategic partnerships, and supporting the success of Latino and multicultural professionals.