Global Navigators is a management consulting firm specializing in global strategy and growth.

We help you enter new international markets and expand existing operations by developing global engagement and growth strategies, analyzing needs and opportunities based on market and member research, and building relations with partner organizations and corporate supporters to help facilitate growth.

Our Commitment to Diversity

We celebrate diversity and strive for equity every step of the way. We foster engaging environments where we work and welcoming communities where we live. We are stronger by empowering others to be their authentic self.

Our Services

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GLOBAL NAVIGATORS
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GLOBAL REACH

Global starts with You, and we are here to help along the way. Whether you are focused on expanding your activities in Chicago or Chennai, Houston or Hong Kong, or sustaining existing operations, our team is here to help you advance your efforts and grow your impact.

WE NOW OFFER ON-THE-GROUND SERVICES IN LATIN AMERICA IN SPANISH AND PORTUGUESE!

Our team boasts global expertise across diverse international markets, with experience in Latin America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. We have built a global network of experts and partners support local implementation, fostering connections with government officials and international partners across regions.

Services

Market Entry

We help you confidently enter new markets by identifying strategic needs and opportunities. Through focused strategies, strong partnerships, membership growth, value-added products and services, and compelling narratives, we expand your objectives and share the stories of your important work in the U.S. and internationally.
Market Research

Research is the foundation of effective strategies. Our team offers extensive experience in research design, management, and support, including secure methods like interviews, focus groups, and qualitative surveys. We help you understand the context and barriers that may hinder your success and provide insights to overcome them.
Global Policy

We help navigate international policy environments by analyzing landscapes, aligning goals with trends, and fostering collaboration. Whether advocating for sustainable initiatives, facilitating stakeholder dialogue, or influencing decision-makers, we ensure your voice is impactful on the global stage. Let us connect you with policymakers and position your organization as a leader in addressing pressing global challenges.
Industry Insights

We provide actionable insights to enhance your international efforts, building bridges with corporate partners to offset global outreach expenses. Our experienced team secures sponsorships, expo sales, and innovative partnerships to create win-win solutions and drive your mission forward.
Partnership Development

Strong relationships are the cornerstone of long-term growth. We leverage our networks to build impactful partnerships, connecting organizations and individuals to maximize opportunities, foster collaboration, and open doors to new possibilities.
Marketing and Communications

We understand how to tell your story and engage global audiences. By localizing your value proposition and aligning messaging with the right perspectives, we ensure your message resonates with key stakeholders across diverse cultural and professional landscapes.
Global Governance

We cultivate strong relationships with board members and executive teams, building consensus among committees and chapters around the world. By facilitating board discussions and supporting international chapters, we ensure your mission is strategically maximized in diverse settings.
Global Support

We excel in navigating complex environments by uniting diverse voices, including volunteer leaders, staff, and external stakeholders. With flexibility and adaptability, we guide your board and team on global issues, managing perspectives and aligning efforts across various contexts.
Global Advice

Our solution-focused and imaginative leadership style is tailored to address the challenges of today’s interconnected world. As a trusted partner, we are committed to supporting your global initiatives with creative strategies and actionable insights that foster long-term success.
In-country Services

Our in-country teams in Latin America and Europe—fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese—support your global strategy with on-the-ground expertise. From representing your interests at events and managing partnerships to developing creative solutions like joint meetings and symposia, we ensure your international goals are effectively implemented.
Meetings and Events

We plan and execute impactful meetings and events that bring your mission to life. From board retreats to international conferences, we create experiences that foster collaboration and strengthen relationships. Whether in-person, virtual, or hybrid, we tailor every detail to your objectives, ensuring seamless execution and lasting impact.
Other projects

We thrive on meeting the unique needs of our clients and are eager to explore additional ways to support your success. Whatever your goals, we are here to help bring them to life. Our team is committed to providing creative, tailored solutions that drive meaningful results for your organization.

Our Work

Developing a global strategy.

Developed an international membership growth strategy for The American Institute of Architects. Currently helping The AIA grow in three strategic markets.

Helping to expand AACE in Latin America.

Developed a comprehensive strategy for engaging with international government officials, potential partners, and stakeholders. Supported the ACS Public Policy team in gaining a better understanding of what a Global Policy and Government Affairs program could look like at ACS in the future.

Partnered with the AGU team to support global policy development and implementation. Developed relations with key international government contacts in the United States and abroad. Delivered global mindset training to AGU staff. Helped AGU with global operations guidance.

Supported the AAN team with a long-term global strategy to understand key opportunities and challenges in the international space, and provided suggestions for future direction and activities.

Our Team

Founder and CEO
At the helm of Global Navigators is Jakub Konysz, supporting organizations with a range of management services with a primary focus on global strategy and long-term growth. Jakub brings a well-rounded expertise essential to organizational success rooted in nonprofit and corporate environments, with more than 20 years of progressive experience. Konysz holds an MBA degree from the George Washington University along with a master’s degree in communication from Missouri State University, and the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential from the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE). In addition, he holds the Institute of Organizational Management (IOM) credential from the United States Chamber of Commerce, and graduate certificates in conflict and dispute resolution and strategic management.
Most recently, Jakub led a global programs team at a large medical society in Washington, DC with a robust international presence. His prior experience centered around organizations such as the American Chemical Society and the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), where he held senior positions in global development and communications. Prior, Jakub worked in the corporate sector for a global automotive financing company, an ad agency, and a chamber of commerce/CVB attracting 10 million visitors annually. Jakub used to teach public speaking at a large public university in the Midwest.
Jakub is passionate about minority and international issues, and has several years of volunteer experience with such organizations as the Washington English Center, where he taught English to immigrant communities; the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), where he led professional development for the Washington, DC IABC chapter; Destination DC, where he helped to attract international business to Washington, DC; and Gays and Lesbians in Association Management, a group he founded to build community among LGBT+ executives in the Washington, DC region. Jakub currently serves on the Board of Directors of Health Volunteers Overseas, which supports physicians in low-resourced regions. Jakub is also involved with the United States Chamber of Commerce IOM program.
Contact Jakub to schedule an introductory meeting.

Marsha has been active in the association management profession for more than 35 years, most recently serving 19 years as Chief Executive Officer for the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD), a 50-year old international trade association for independent architectural lighting designers. Concurrently, she served as Executive Director for the IALD Education Trust, an educational, charitable foundation focused on supporting the next generation of lighting designers. In addition to these positions, Marsha has experience with large and small professional membership and trade associations, including the Illinois Home Care Council, American Medical Association, the Bank Marketing Association, and the Illinois Library Association.
In addition to her extensive experience working for associations, Marsha is a long-time volunteer with professional societies and other membership organizations. She is a member of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) and has been active with The Association Forum of Chicagoland and ASAE since 1986, serving both organizations as a volunteer and speaker upon numerous occasions. She is a past chair of the CAE Commission, has served on the ASAE Board of Directors and on ASAE’s Membership Section Council and International Section Council.
Marsha holds Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees in anthropology from the University of Florida and the University of Chicago, respectively. She is a Certified Association Executive (CAE) and a graduate of the Institute for Organization Management. In addition to these qualifications, she holds a sixth degree black belt in the martial art of Aikido and teaches regular classes in Chicago as well as seminars throughout the US. Marsha is dojo-cho and chief instructor of the Chicago Aikikai, a 501(c)3 60-year old martial arts school in Chicago. In addition, she is on the board of directors for the Aikido Schools of Ueshiba, also a 501(c)3 entity, currently serving as the organization’s president.
Expertise:
- Expanding the reach of US associations internationally through membership, localizing US products and services
- Steering international governance bodies and structures
- Global mindset and cultural sensitivity

Mark has 35 years of experience in association management and last served as the CEO of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE). During his time at SPE, he transformed the organization by broadening its global reach, establishing new international offices and enhancing existing programs for SPE’s global membership, which led to a doubling SPE’s professional membership and quadrupling revenue over a span of fourteen years. Prior to SPE he served in standards development and advocacy roles with a large trade association.
Every association has its distinct characteristics, and the potential for the development of international programs varies accordingly. Associations should ensure that their international endeavors are consistently aligned with their mission and leverage their unique value proposition. Importantly, the distinct nature of not-for-profit associations can generate exceptional possibilities for international expansion. Mark’s skill lies in recognizing these opportunities and capitalizing on them while remaining dedicated to the organization’s mission.
Expertise:
- Market expertise in the Middle East, Europe, Latin America and Asia
- Global implementation of programs and services
- Developing organizational capabilities in international locations

Monica provides leadership and guidance in rigorous and reliable research initiatives for Global Navigators’ clients. Monica’s research career is broad and varied. She spent 25 years as President of Monalco, Inc., a Milwaukee based market research firm founded by her and continuing to operate under new ownership. Monica then served as Managing Director of the ASAE Foundation and Chief Research Officer for ASAE & The Center for Association Leadership. While in this position she was the principal investigator, project manager, and survey designer of all of the cosponsored studies in the Decision to… series (Join, Volunteer, Give, and Learn). She also co-authored all of the books in the series and 10 Lessons, based on the lessons learned after the 5-year follow-up study of Decision to Join. Monica brings extensive research design and management experience.
Expertise:
- Research design and data collection
- Quantitative and qualitative methodologies
- Extensive experience in association management, including as a co-author of The Decision To (Join, Volunteer, Give) research series

Senior Director, International Programs
Carlos is an accomplished multicultural executive with more than 30 years of experience in the meetings and events industry. His expertise lies in capturing, operating, and developing various events for associations and corporations, both nationally and internationally. Carlos has a proven track record of delivering exceptional results, demonstrating strong leadership, teamwork, and the ability to thrive under pressure.
Carlos leverages his extensive experience to assist associations and corporate clients in making a positive impact on their business success in Latin America. His expertise spans holistic event planning, strategic organizational planning, tactical event acquisition, negotiation, and contracting with suppliers.
Carlos possesses a diverse skill set including event planning and management, procurement, negotiation and budgeting, marketing and communication, business strategy and development, as well as a deep understanding of the hospitality industry convention centers.
Prior to his current role, Carlos held positions such as Regional Associations Relations Director LATAM at MCI Group and Managing Director Spain & LATAM at Kenes Group, where he spearheaded operations spanning Spain, Portugal, and Latin America. He also served as Managing Director at TILESA OPC, where he oversaw all managerial activities for over a decade.
Carlos holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Management from City University (Madrid Campus), along with an Executive Master in Sales and Marketing from IE Business School. He also obtained a PCO Expert Diploma from IAPCO International Association Professional Congress Organizer.
Expertise:
- Latin America Market Entry
- Event Planning and Management
- Partnership Development and Negotiation

Regional Director, Latin America
Tiago has been working in the association market for more than 15 years as a dynamic, creative, and multicultural executive. Tiago brings significant experience consulting for trade associations and professional societies in Latin America during which he helped navigate multi-stakeholder, customer-centric and rapidly evolving environments to generate, deliver, and monetize value, and improve performance.
Tiago is fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish with deep international experience and extensive knowledge in regional and international negotiations.
Most recently, Tiago held the position as Business Director in Association Solutions at MCI Group, supporting regional associations in Brazil and throughout Latin America. He also served as Commercial Sales Manager at a Convention Center in São Paulo, Brazil.
Tiago led a team to support a large medical society based in Washington, DC in utilizing their strong international presence to further global strategies in Latin America. He also worked with another notable international medical association, leading the strategic planning for expansion in Latin America by redefining their value proposition and regularly leading projects, from developing strategies and market research, to generating new products and attracting associates. Tiago brings experience working with associations from his time with an international trade association, where he worked on a global strategy to understand their value proposition, increase the number of members, and improve visibility in Latin America.
Tiago has a strong expertise in capturing and organizing various regional and international events for associations. He works with clients in planning, creating, and developing business strategies and governance structures aimed at transforming trade associations and professional societies to remain relevant and updated in the face of frequent changes in the sector. Tiago possesses strong performance in developing the concept of associative communities through consultancy, management and engagement solutions, and is skilled in making important decisions and working with other professionals to achieve goals and solve problems.
Tiago brings a proven track record of delivering impactful and significant results through demonstrated leadership, creativity, and teamwork. His high ability to strengthen relationships through great professional ethics promotes lasting partnerships.
Tiago holds a Bachelor's degree in Hospitality and Tourism, a postgraduate degree in Management, and also obtained an Advanced Revenue Management and Pricing diploma. Recently, Tiago has completed course qualifications in: AI-Powered Marketing, Design Thinking to Power Innovation, Association Creative Marketing Masterclass, Association Academy, Association Digital Marketing, Association Academy, and Speed to Market, Speed to Solutions.
Expertise:
- Latin America Market Entry & Access Facilitator
- Strategic thinking to expand the reach of associations internationally.
- Global mindset & regional behavior comprehension.
- Latin America Partnership & Business development including institutional alliances, sponsorship & exhibits, and development of new products.

Brand Ambassador

Associate Consultant
Erin is a recent graduate of Virginia Tech, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Studies with a minor in Spanish. While completing her degree, she developed research and writing skills, as well as a robust understanding of global politics.
Upon graduation, Erin completed an internship at the International Rescue Committee, where she worked in career development for recently arrived refugees.
Most recently, Erin worked at an international foreign exchange organization where she supported host families and students to foster a more immersive, multicultural experience.
Additionally, Erin assisted with digital communications at an investment management firm, where she honed her social media and digital design skills.

Our Partners

We partner with other experts in the field to help support diverse needs of our clients.

Megan Denhardt, CAE, DES, President and Founder of Denhardt Productions, has 20 years of experience producing conferences and events. With Denhardt Productions, you gain a trusted partner with a deep understanding of the events space. Megan offers intimate, personal, and turnkey event planning services. She asks the right questions, listens closely, and advises appropriately. You are supported every step of the way with rock-steady guidance.
Denhardt Productions believes that conferences and events are what engages a community. A critical aspect of developing and managing these many different types of face-to-face, virtual, or hybrid experiences is the ability to forge positive relationships with volunteers, content leaders, and internal teams which Megan excels at. Denhardt Productions has the tools to plan, build, and carefully craft the structure of your event so you can deliver an immersive experience for your participants.
denhardtproductions.com

Ana María Rivera-Pramuk is a graphic designer the owner of Associate Creative. She works with a variety of associations and mission drives organizations offering a diverse portfolio of services including publication design, infographic design and web design.

She has more than 15 years experience working with nonprofits. Including more than 10 years as the senior manager of design and production at the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), where she was part of the team behind the award-winning Associations Now magazine. Ana María has won multiple Excel Awards from Association Media and Publishing as well as several American Graphic Design Awards for publication design and infographic design.

associatecreative.com