Passion and purpose often shape the most fulfilling careers, and for those dedicated to mission-driven work, the journey is just as impactful as the destination. In this Q&A with Ryan Carillo, CEO & Founder of Carillo Consulting Group, we dive into the career path, inspirations, and leadership insights as a technology and business expert who has dedicated their career to empowering community-based nonprofits. From the defining moments that solidified their passion to the daily leadership principles that guide their work, this conversation offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to make a difference in the nonprofit sector.
What inspired you to pursue your current role, and what path led you to where you are today?
What inspired me to pursue my current role was a deep passion for supporting community-based non-profits and empowering them to thrive in an ever-evolving technological landscape. As a first-generation college graduate with degrees in technology and business, I have always been driven by the idea of using my skills to create meaningful impact. Over the years, I’ve worked across a diverse range of organizations, from startups to large enterprises, and each experience reinforced my belief in the transformative power of technology when strategically aligned with organizational goals. The path that led me here was shaped by a recognition of the unique challenges faced by small, community-based non-profits. Many of these organizations are often overlooked by traditional consulting firms, leaving them underserved despite their critical contributions to their communities. I founded my consulting firm to bridge this gap, combining my expertise in technology and business with a mission-driven approach to deliver tailored, high-quality solutions. Through over two decades of experience, I’ve been inspired by the resilience of these organizations and their commitment to positive change. My firm was built with the purpose of providing not only technical solutions but also empowering non-profits to grow their vision, strengthen their impact, and build more resilient communities. The journey has been both challenging and rewarding, and it’s a privilege to play a role in helping organizations align their strategies, leverage technology, and achieve sustainable success.
Is there a defining moment or experience that solidified your passion for mission-driven work?
Looking back, a defining moment that solidified my passion for mission-driven work occurred during an early engagement with a small, community-based non-profit focused on providing long-term care and health services to underserved populations. The organization faced challenges in managing its operational processes efficiently while navigating resource constraints and increasing community needs. By collaborating with their leadership team, I developed a strategic technology plan that streamlined their operations, improved communication across departments, and enhanced their ability to deliver critical services. This included implementing a more effective system for tracking patient outcomes and reallocating resources to better support their mission. Seeing the direct impact of these changes - both in the organization’s ability to serve its clients and in the renewed energy of its staff - was transformative. We are committed to making these services accessible and affordable, ensuring that even the smallest organizations can achieve their missions and build stronger, more resilient communities. That defining moment reinforced my belief in the power of tailored consulting to drive meaningful change and continues to guide my work today.
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day involves strategic planning, client engagement, and team collaboration to deliver impactful results for non-profits. Key priorities include aligning project goals with client missions, evaluating emerging technologies for greater impact, and fostering partnerships. I also dedicate time to learning new technologies and staying current on trends, particularly how enterprise organizations are adopting innovations. This helps me translate scalable solutions to benefit small non-profits, ensuring they stay competitive and efficient.
How do you balance your daily work?
Balancing my daily work involves prioritizing client needs, team collaboration, and staying current on technology trends. A significant part of my day includes meeting with various technology partners and stakeholders to identify the best solutions for our non-profit clients. I enjoy working hands-on with clients to address their unique challenges and collaborating with partners to integrate the latest innovations into affordable solutions. This collaboration ensures small non-profits can efficiently adopt enterprise-level technologies.
What leadership principles guide you in your work, especially when working with teams or inspiring others?
I lead by example, balancing both player and coach roles. I actively participate in projects, contributing my expertise while empowering my team to take ownership of their work. I foster open communication, trust, and collaboration, encouraging continuous learning and growth. My focus is on aligning team efforts with the organization’s goals, inspiring each individual to thrive and contribute meaningfully.
Who has been the most influential mentor in your career, and what have you learned from them?
One of the most influential role models in my career has been John Wooden, whose leadership philosophy emphasized the importance of integrity, teamwork, and continuous self-improvement. From him, I learned that success is not just about achieving results but about building a strong foundation of values and relationships. I apply his principle of "be quick, but don't hurry" to balance efficiency with thoughtful, deliberate action. Additionally, Satya Nadella’s leadership at Microsoft has been deeply inspiring. His focus on empathy, growth mindset, and fostering an inclusive culture has shaped how I approach both team dynamics and client relationships. Nadella’s emphasis on empowering people to realize their potential, regardless of their background, aligns with my belief in lifting others through collaborative, mission-driven work. Both mentors have taught me the value of leading with purpose and humility, striving for excellence while remaining focused on the well-being and growth of those around me.
What challenges have you faced in your journey, and how did you overcome them to grow in your career?
One of the key challenges I’ve faced in my career has been finding individuals and companies that share the same mindset of purpose-driven work, especially when it comes to supporting small, community-based non-profits. Many organizations focus solely on profitability and aligning that with mission-driven work requires constant effort to build relationships with like-minded partners and clients. Overcoming this challenge involved staying true to my values and actively seeking out people and organizations that prioritize impact over short-term gains. I also learned the importance of resilience - by fostering strong relationships, being transparent about my goals, and demonstrating the tangible benefits of mission-driven work, I was able to attract partners who shared my vision. This persistence in building a network aligned with my values has been crucial in helping my consulting firm grow and make a lasting impact.
What advice would you give to someone looking to make a difference in the nonprofit world?
My advice is to stay focused on the mission and be adaptable. In the nonprofit world, resources are often limited, so creativity and resilience are essential. Build strong relationships, both within your organization and with external partners, to create a network of support. Most importantly, always keep the bigger picture in mind: the impact you’re making on people and communities.
"Stay true to your values and work collaboratively to align efforts with the organization’s goals."
What’s a fact about you that most people don’t know?
A fun fact about me that most people don’t know is that I played professional roller hockey.
What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy week?
My favorite way to unwind after a busy week is by exploring new restaurants and traveling. We love discovering hidden gems, trying new cuisines, and experiencing different cultures. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a visit to a local spot, the opportunity to try something new always helps me recharge. It’s a perfect way to step away from work, relax, and gather new inspiration. Plus, great food and new experiences always bring a sense of adventure and excitement!
Making a lasting impact in the nonprofit world requires a blend of passion, adaptability, and strategic thinking. As we've explored, aligning technology with mission-driven goals can transform organizations and empower communities. Whether you're looking to step into the nonprofit space, refine your leadership approach, or find inspiration in the power of purpose-driven work, this journey offers valuable insights. Keep focusing on the mission, build meaningful relationships, and never underestimate the power of persistence. The work you do today has the potential to shape a better future for many.
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