Carmel Wynkoop

Bio

Carmel has over 25 years of experience applying software solutions to achieve strategic business objectives, currently serving as the Partner in charge of AI, Automation, and Analytics. She leads a dedicated team in implementing a range of AI projects for diverse clients, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and fostering innovation. With a strong track record of guiding organizations through digital transformations, Carmel specializes in strategic AI deployment to create competitive advantages.

Prior to her current role, she directed business-driven processes from conception to implementation, encompassing comprehensive product management, usability, and organizational development. Carmel's previous positions include Director of ERP & Control Systems at Guitar Center, and roles as CIO and VP of IT at Network Equipment Technologies. She holds an M.S. in organizational development with a focus on change management from the University of San Francisco, and a B.S. in health and community science from the University of Nevada, Reno.

Experience

Guitar Center
Network Equipment Technologies

Education

University of Nevada, Reno
University of San Francisco

Honors/Awards

Microsoft Dynamics Customer Excellence Award for Innovation in Manufacturing – 2009-2011

Speaking Engagements

Microsoft Convergence, AXUG.com and High Tech conferences – 2007-2011
University of Nevada, Las Vegas Sourcing and Procurement Department – 2001-2004

Q&A

I think cloud services are going to continue to grow. More off-the-shelf, self-managed features and processes are going to be necessary to remain competitive. The industry needs a lot of overhaul as it moves from a monolithic ERP system/platform to more of a cloud-hosted/streamlined/self-service option. We have experience helping companies transform beyond simply managing implementations. We can help them see the bigger picture and what will work best for them.

I’m pretty upfront and fairly direct, but personable. Very results oriented. For me, we’re here to do a job and do it really well. We’re here to work with a client to help them grow their business and make process improvements so their company is profitable and their employees are fulfilled and satisfied.

It’s more about small wins. When you can get a management team to see a vision and help them execute on it. Or when you’ve helped someone else succeed and you watch them rise to the occasion. Those are the wins that are my proudest moments.

I have two. When I was in graduate school, I didn’t know what I wanted to do. Another woman I went to school with said I should try being a project manager. I didn’t have any direction, so I tried it and it changed my life.

My second is a former manager at Network Equipment Technologies. He has been a big mentor in my life. I love the way he thinks about things. Like me, he is very direct. He has the ability to cut straight through the clutter and come up with a meaningful solution that no one thought of. I find his approach inspiring, and it has shaped how I view the workplace.

I was on the other side as an IT customer. Armanino was the partner for my implementation and I saw firsthand how they handled the process. Having worked in ERP for a long time, I trusted our working relationship and thought consulting could be an interesting challenge for me.