Goal Oriented (GO), led by Maria Mazzenga Avellaneda, strengthens mission-driven organizations during moments of growth, challenge, and leadership transition.
Maria brings more than 20 years of executive leadership experience as a CEO and Executive Director, including seven distinct interim engagements guiding organizations through executive transitions, financial uncertainty, cultural revitalization, and strategic realignment. Her leadership portfolio spans California, New York, Arizona, and international work in Costa Rica and Mexico. Maria holds an ACTFL-certified level of Spanish proficiency, allowing her to engage effectively in binational and multicultural contexts.
GO provides disciplined execution, transparent governance partnership, and steady leadership that safeguards both mission and reputation. We are often engaged when organizations require experienced executive oversight, financial stewardship, program reorganization and board alignment during pivotal moments.
Maria holds a degree in Quantitative Business Analysis from Pennsylvania State University, a Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language from UC Irvine, and is a graduate of Third Sector’s Interim Executive Academy. She is also a member of the Bay Area Interim Executive Director Group, reflecting her ongoing commitment to excellence in interim leadership practice.
GO’s work centers on aligning day-to-day operations with mission priorities and board expectations. We partner closely with boards and staff to cultivate a healthy culture, strengthen infrastructure, improve accountability, and position the organization for long-term sustainability—ensuring organizations are not only stabilized, but strategically positioned to thrive.
With a proven record of results and a deep commitment to meaningful impact, Maria and the GO team help organizations navigate organizational, and human side, of change with clarity, confidence, and success.
GOAL ORIENTED 