Karla Berman: A Visionary Leader in Digital Transformation and Venture Capital
Karla Berman has emerged as one of the most influential figures in Latin America’s digital, entrepreneurial, and venture capital ecosystem. Known for her sharp analytical mindset, her passion for digital transformation, and her unique ability to merge data with strategy, Karla Berman has built an impressive career that spans leadership roles at global corporations, board memberships, and investments in high-growth companies. Beyond her executive success, she is widely recognized as one of the investors in Shark Tank México, where her direct, data-driven approach has captivated entrepreneurs and audiences alike.
This article provides an in-depth look into her biography, career milestones, personal life, and her impact as a leader, mentor, and investor.
Who Is Karla Berman?
Karla Berman is a Mexican business executive, board member, angel investor, and venture capitalist. Over the past 15 years, she has established herself as a powerful voice in the digital economy of Latin America. Her journey began with a strong academic foundation in engineering and business, followed by strategic roles in media, technology, and finance. Today, she balances her professional commitments with her roles as a mother and mentor while continuing to inspire others through her optimistic and forward-thinking vision.
Early Life and Education Of Karla Berman
Engineering Background
Karla Berman studied Industrial Engineering at Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico City between 1998 and 2002. Her engineering degree laid the foundation for her systematic, data-oriented approach to problem solving.
Harvard Business School MBA
She later pursued an MBA at Harvard Business School from 2005 to 2007, specializing in general management. This experience exposed her to international business practices, global networks, and leadership skills that would shape her future career in digital transformation and venture capital.
Professional Journey Of Karla Berman
Early Career in Media and Consulting
Karla began her professional journey as a reporter at Grupo Reforma in 2002. Shortly after, she joined McKinsey & Company as a Business Analyst, where she gained exposure to high-level consulting and strategy.
By 2008, she had transitioned into the digital media world, taking leadership roles at CNNMéxico.com, CNNExpansión.com, and Quién.com. Later, at Grupo Expansión, she served as Interactive Director and Entertainment and Lifestyle Director, overseeing digital strategies that reached nearly 30% of Mexico’s internet population.
Rise at Google
In 2013, Karla Berman joined Google Mexico, where she quickly became a pivotal leader in digital transformation for Latin America.
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2013–2015: Head of Brand Activation for Spanish-speaking Latin America.
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2016–2020: Head of CPG Practice for Google Mexico, leading key partnerships with major consumer goods companies and driving innovation in digital marketing.
Her seven years at Google established her reputation as an operator with deep expertise in data-driven growth.
Entrepreneurial and Advisory Roles
Karla is also the non-executive co-founder of Naran Xadul, a parenting digital platform that provides resources for young families. Her work there highlights her ability to bridge corporate expertise with entrepreneurial innovation.
She has also served as a board member at Mezcal Amarás, blending her business acumen with a passion for supporting culturally significant brands.
Leadership at Yalo and SoftBank
From 2020 to 2021, Karla Berman served as Vice President of Sales at Yalo, a conversational commerce company. Shortly after, she became an Operating Leader and Director at SoftBank Group International, where she advised technology startups and scaleups across Latin America.
Current Roles
As of 2025, Karla holds several prestigious positions:
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Board Member at Arcos Dorados (NYSE: ARCO), the largest McDonald’s franchisee in Latin America.
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Investment Committee Member at Dalus Capital, a regional venture capital fund.
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Board Member at Mendel, a financial technology company.
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Board Member at Endeavor México, supporting high-impact entrepreneurs.
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Member of the Latin America Advisory Board at Harvard Business School.
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Investor on Shark Tank México, where she evaluates and invests in startups.
Her multifaceted roles demonstrate her wide-ranging influence in technology, venture capital, and corporate governance.
Karla Berman on Shark Tank México
As an investor on Shark Tank México, Karla Berman stands out for her data-driven style, often reminding entrepreneurs that while optimism is key, numbers ultimately define the viability of a business. Known for her phrase “In God we trust, everyone else bring data,” she emphasizes transparency, financial discipline, and scalability when evaluating startups.
Her presence on the show not only brings capital to entrepreneurs but also provides mentorship, credibility, and connections that help founders grow their companies.
Board Memberships and Venture Capital
Arcos Dorados
Karla Berman joined the Board of Directors of Arcos Dorados in 2023. As the master franchisee of McDonald’s in Latin America, the company represents a massive business opportunity where Karla contributes her expertise in consumer behavior and digital innovation.
Dalus Capital and Ignia Partners
Through her roles in Dalus Capital and previously IGNIA Partners, Karla has been directly involved in guiding venture capital investments, particularly in technology and consumer startups across Latin America.
Endeavor México
Her role as a board member at Endeavor México demonstrates her commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and creating ecosystems where innovation thrives.
Personal Life
Beyond her career, Karla Berman is also recognized for her family values. She is the mother of five daughters, balancing her demanding professional commitments with her personal responsibilities.
She has been in a long-term relationship with Carlos Schvartzman, a companion from her school days. While not much is officially disclosed about her marital status, sources widely cite Carlos as her life partner.
Social Media Presence
On Instagram, Karla is known as @karlitaberman, where she has built a following of more than 124,000 followers. Her posts highlight her professional achievements, personal philosophy, and media appearances. She also co-hosts White Paper MX, a platform for business insights and conversations with industry leaders.
Her strong social media presence reflects her ability to connect with a broader audience beyond boardrooms and television screens.
Leadership Style and Philosophy
Karla Berman describes herself as an “optimistic chronic” and an “impatient digital transformation professional.” Her philosophy blends optimism with pragmatism, urging leaders and entrepreneurs to dream big but always ground decisions in data.
Her career demonstrates a rare balance of corporate leadership, startup innovation, and investment expertise. She has become a role model for women in business, especially in Latin America, inspiring a new generation of leaders to embrace change and innovation.
Legacy and Impact
Karla Berman’s influence goes beyond her personal achievements. She represents a new generation of leaders who understand that technology, entrepreneurship, and investment must work together to transform economies. Her contributions at Google, SoftBank, Dalus Capital, and Shark Tank have directly impacted hundreds of companies, while her mentorship roles at Harvard and Endeavor continue to shape future leaders.
Her journey from media and consulting to venture capital and television underscores her versatility and resilience. With her unique blend of strategic vision, operational expertise, and human touch, Karla Berman is solidifying her legacy as one of the most impactful business leaders in Latin America.
Conclusion
Karla Berman’s biography is a story of determination, innovation, and influence. From her academic roots in engineering to her MBA at Harvard, from her early career in journalism to leading positions at Google and SoftBank, and from her boardroom roles to her seat on Shark Tank México, she has consistently broken barriers and set new standards in business leadership.
Today, Karla Berman is not only a powerful investor and board member but also a mentor, advisor, and role model for entrepreneurs across Latin America. Her philosophy — that optimism must always be guided by data — continues to inspire professionals and entrepreneurs seeking to make an impact in the digital age.
