John Zappa

John Zappa is the current Senior Product Manager at ARM Institute. Prior to this, they were the Director of Vicariate Operations for the Archdiocese of Chicago from April 2017 to January 2021. In this role, they oversaw the financial and operational aspects of the Vicariate, which includes 62 churches, 34 schools, over 90,000 registered families and $150+ million in operating budget. Their key responsibilities included strategic planning and implementation, guidance and counsel to the Vicar, Pastors, and Business Managers, and financial/administrative support.

Prior to their work with the Archdiocese of Chicago, John was the Co-founder and COO of Knoitall from April 2014 to April 2017. Knoitall is a company that helps people plan their future by connecting them with the right learning opportunities. As COO, John helped to secure Pearson, Intel and County of Santa Clara as clients.

From January 2005 to September 2009, John served as Senior Vice President at CAEL. In this role, they were responsible for product development and strategy, client relations, business development, sales and marketing.

John also has experience as an entrepreneur. John was the CEO of EdLink, LLC from September 2009 to August 2013. EdLink is a software company that provides solutions for adult learners in higher education. As CEO, John was responsible for all aspects of the business, from product development to sales and marketing.

Prior to their work in higher education, John was a professional bike rider and raced for ZappaWheels from 2001-2004. John then became Vice President of Product Development at EdAssist from August 2013 to April 2014.

John Zappa began their educational career by obtaining a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University. John then attended the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth, where they earned an MBA in Business Administration. Finally, they completed a semester of graduate studies abroad at the IESE Business School.

John Zappa reports to Ira Moskowitz, CEO. They are on a team with Mary Ellen Rich - Certification Manager, Jay Douglass - COO, and Chris Adams - Program Manager.