Gonzalo A. de la Melena, Jr. is the Founder and CEO of Emerging Airport Ventures, LLC.

Emerging Domestic Market Ventures, LLC, a small business investment company which owns and operates the Sir Veza’s Taco Garage located in Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

Gonzalo notes that because he attended community college before graduating from Arizona State University and then earning an MBA from Thunderbird, the School of Global Management, he understands the struggles many students face pursuing higher education. Gonzalo has more than 15 years of experience in global brand management, business development, mergers & acquisitions, and Latino marketing gained from working with consumer, retail, and restaurant companies. He began his career with the Coca-Cola Bottling Company before joining The Dial Corporation, where he held various positions in brand management, international development and general management in the United States, Mexico, South and Central America, Canada, and the Caribbean.

In an advisory role, Gonzalo has served on various board and committees, including: JPMorgan/ Chase Bank of Arizona, Fiesta Bowl, Thunderbird, the School of Global Management, Valley of the Sun United Way, Arizona State University Downtown, Phoenix Community College and the National Society of Hispanic MBAs.

Gonzalo is a recipient of the 40 under 40 as recognized by the Phoenix Business Journal, and is a graduate of Valley Leadership. He received his MBA from Thunderbird School of Global Management, and his undergraduate degree from Arizona State University.