Mario Cornejo Barriere
Mario Cornejo is a senior supply chain and data science executive whose innovations in AI forecasting, inventory optimization, and supply chain strategy have been recognized with multiple granted patents. With more than 20 years of global experience, he has led transformative initiatives in inventory management, AI-driven forecasting, and end-to-end supply chain operations. His career spans leadership roles across the technology, retail, and aviation sectors, consistently delivering multimillion-dollar savings through innovation, advanced analytics, and strategic execution.
Currently serving as Director of Supply Chain Solutions & Spares Inventory Planning at Microsoft, Mario leads AI applications in supply chain, optimization-based models, global planning transformations, and high-performing, globally distributed teams. Before joining Microsoft, he held senior leadership roles at Dell Technologies, overseeing data science strategy and global service parts operations, and at Walmart, leading decision sciences for last-mile logistics in eCommerce.
Originally from El Salvador, Mario’s career began in the aviation sector, where his work with Aeroman (previously owned by TACA International Airlines) sparked a lifelong fascination with the intersection of logistics, technology, and strategic problem-solving. Known for his collaborative leadership style, he aligns individual strengths with business goals, fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Mario holds a PhD and MS in Industrial Engineering & Management from Oklahoma State University and a BS in Industrial Engineering from Universidad Centroamericana in El Salvador. He also earned a Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence from MIT Sloan.
Proficient in a wide range of analytics, simulation, and optimization tools, Mario is a sought-after advisor and has presented at industry forums, including Gartner.
Outside of work, he enjoys returning to the beaches of El Salvador, where the country’s unique geography offers both serene flat coastlines and breathtaking vistas from small mountain viewpoints — a reminder of the diverse perspectives he values in life and leadership. He lives in Austin, TX, where he shares his life with his wife, Claudia, also an Oklahoma State University Industrial Engineering & Management graduate, and their two children.