Business development director hired
Published: April 1, 2013
Maria Thomas brings extensive experience in marketing and sales to her new post overseeing the association’s Business Affiliate Program, building relationships with CSBA’s business partners and developing revenue-generating opportunities among non-members.
Thomas comes to CSBA from a career in real estate sales and development and, most recently, in technology sales for Hewlett Packard Inc. Thomas said she has spent much of her career cultivating sound business relationships, a skill that will serve her well as she assumes responsibility for affiliate and partnership programs that support CSBA’s education mission.
“My earlier work has been about driving profits, building strong relationships, and creating a positive impact,” she said. “I have a lot of experience developing business opportunities and building alliances and partnerships. I’m excited to be doing this work for an organization that promotes the interests of public education and California’s children.”
Currently vice president of the board of directors for the Sacramento-area Cosumnes River College Foundation, Thomas will assume the community college foundation’s presidency later this year. She served on the African American Advisory Committee established by state Senate President Pro Tem. Darrell Steinberg to build relationships with the diverse population of Steinberg’s Sacramento district. She earned her MBA from National University and her bachelor’s in marketing from California State University, Sacramento.