About John D. Varlaro, CPT, MBA

John’s introduction to business occurred at an early age – by age 13 he was helping his mother create marketing campaigns for the family business. With only a high school education, his mother became an entrepreneur; yet, her grassroots business sense inspired him as she taught that people are the heart of any business. These lessons, as well as her ability to connect with each customer set an important precedent for John.

Now The Humanistic Strategist, John focuses on the people. Through “humanizing” business, John ensures total organizational integration and consumer engagement.

Often described as a “West Coast mind in an East Coast body,” John’s management philosophy actually extends past the West Coast to Japan, where he lived and worked as a consultant. This blend of East/West business philosophies and best practices now inform his consulting, along with the early lessons he learned in the family business. By transcending traditional boundaries, John unlocks the full potential of employees and consumers, and the company becomes greater than just a group of individuals.

A proven business strategist and entrepreneur, John has led marketing and strategic initiatives for several companies, including the successful launch of a technology start-up in 2006.

An engaging speaker, John delivers presentations regarding employee empowerment; leadership; as well as the correct integration of social media into a company’s marketing mix.

He is also a dedicated leadership coach. With the philosophy that strong leaders must derive strength from within, John combines physical training with traditional leadership coaching.

John's education includes an MBA in International Business with a graduate certificate in Japanese Management; however, he also possesses his undergraduate degree in Art History and Music, demonstrating a unique mind that is both analytic and creative.

Conversant in Japanese, John likes to spend his free time studying foreign languages, reading and cooking. He is also a certified personal trainer and enjoys working-out regularly.

John currently serves on the board of directors for the American Marketing Association, Southeastern New England Chapter as the Social Media Director. 

He also occupies the Marketing and Communications seat on the board of directors for the Rhode Island Parent Information Network, and is on the advisory board for Emerging Women In Business.

Due to his volunteerism, John has been profiled in an upcoming book Changing the World on a Tuesday Night.