Meet The Team

Manny Lucero, Founder & CEO

Manuel (Manny) Lucero is a Phoenix native and a proud graduate of Arizona State University. He holds his Bachelor's degree in English Literature and a Master’s degree in Business Management from the W. P. Carey School of Business. Manny is the founder and CEO of Lucero Consulting Group (LCG), a firm providing small business and nonprofit consulting services, marketing services, and event planning services to clients from around the country. Additionally, Manny teaches a wide variety of courses on topics including starting a business/nonprofit, marketing, accounting, HR, access to capital/fundraising, networking and storytelling, and much more. His passion is helping individuals and organizations, from all backgrounds, build sustainability and impact in their communities.
 
Previously, he served in various development capacities for Arizona nonprofits and worked in the financial services industry. He has served as the Deputy Director for the Arizona Women’s Business Center and also worked with the Veterans Business Center, having secured funding for entrepreneurs being released from the justice system. Manny works with businesses and nonprofits of all levels and stages.
 
In addition to his work with LCG, Manny has served on the Vantage West Credit Union Board of Directors since 2018, and was appointed to the National Small Business Association Leadership Council in 2023. He served three terms on the City of Phoenix City Development Block Grant (CDBG) Board of Directors and on various education and diversity and inclusion focused Boards for local organizations and universities in the past. Additionally, Manny was an adjunct faculty member teaching small business/entrepreneurship and HR courses for the Maricopa Community College District for three years. 
 
In 2023, the LCG Level Up Pitch Competition was created, aimed at supporting local, diverse businesses looking to scale up their businesses. Manny and his team are determined and continue to build initiatives towards an equitable playing field for all.

Pedro Alvarez - VP, Director of Operations & Events

Born and raised in New York, Pedro embarked on a new chapter in 2013, setting roots in Arizona where he quickly became an advocate for equality and economic opportunity. His dedication to fostering an inclusive environment led him to roles such as the Board Chair of the ONE Marriott Phoenix Chapter, focusing on LGBTQ+ advocacy, and a board member of R.A.I.L., supporting small business growth and community development.
 
Before venturing into entrepreneurship, Pedro's career spanned across the hospitality, property management, and insurance industries, where he honed his skills in creating memorable customer experiences and operational management.
 
In 2020, Pedro's career took a pivotal turn as he joined Lucero Consulting Group, leveraging his vast experience in a role that emphasizes operational effectiveness and strategic marketing initiatives. Here, Pedro continues to make a substantial impact, driving improvements in operational procedures and marketing strategies that benefit the firm and its diverse clientele. In addition to his role at Lucero Consulting Group, Pedro serves as a business advisor and instructor for various organizations across the Valley, and volunteers his time teaching Toastmasters classes for high school students. 
 
Pedro is adamant about the power of resilience, innovation, and community engagement. His work reflects a deep commitment to not just succeeding personally but uplifting others to achieve their potential, embodying the belief that true success is shared and inclusive.

Heba Saad - Research & Operations Intern

Heba Saad was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Sudanese parents before moving to Phoenix, Arizona. She is an incoming senior at the W.P. Carey School of Business, double majoring in Finance and Entrepreneurship with a focus on Management. Heba has diverse leadership and community advocacy experience, founding the nonprofit "Sudanese Youth for Change" to support those affected by the proxy war in Sudan. 

Throughout her academic journey, Heba has actively engaged in various roles, including serving as a Community Liaison at ASU's Black African Coalition, Executive Assistant at ASU's Sudanese American Association, and student mentor and scholarship lead at Arizona Refugee College Success. Passionate about economic empowerment and community development, Heba has participated in ASU's Innovation Space program and completed internships with local Black-owned businesses, contributing to their growth and sustainability.

After graduation, Heba aims to build a long and prosperous career in consulting. She is dedicated to creating effective strategic solutions that foster growth and sustainability for businesses and nonprofits. Heba also plans to establish a microcredit business in Sudan to empower local enterprises and contribute to sustainable economic growth. Heba's passion for making a difference, inspired by her experiences and others' challenges, drives her to leverage her skills to uplift her community.

Alex Maldonado - Small Business Consulting Intern

Alexander Maldonado is a driven and versatile professional from Yuma, Arizona. He is currently attending the University of Arizona with a majors in Business Administration, Psychology, and Spanish, and a minor in Economics. Alexander's academic achievements have laid a robust foundation for his career interests in Organizational Management and Business Consulting. His diverse educational background enables him to blend business acumen with psychological insights and economic understanding, making him a valuable asset to the LCG Team. Alexander is excited to work with LCG to support small businesses and nonprofits across the U.S.!

Get in Touch!

Contact us today to request your free consultation.

Lucero Consulting Group

Based in Arizona, LCG provides businesses and nonprofits across the country with a wide range of marketing and consulting services.

Contact Us Today

2325 E Camelback Road,
Suite 440
Phoenix, AZ 85016

Proud Member of

Untitled design (20)
LCG FINAL LOGO - 2021 (2)
LC Member Logo