Our Leadership Team
Meet the experienced professionals transforming businesses and creating lasting value
Our team combines deep industry expertise with proven methodologies to deliver exceptional results for our clients.
Founder & Managing Partner
Ricardo Malla
Managing Partner & Founder
Ricardo founded Elkfort in 2009 with a vision to deliver practical, results-driven consulting services. With a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering and extensive experience in operations, he brings a unique blend of technical expertise and business acumen to every engagement.
Ricardo’s background spans international business, industrial operations, and the oil and gas sector, where he developed deep expertise in optimizing complex operations and implementing efficient systems. He is recognized for his proficiency in IT systems, process optimization, and driving operational excellence across diverse industries.
Areas of Expertise: Operations Management • Industrial Operations • Oil & Gas • IT Systems & Processes • International Business
Practice Leaders
Sarah Chen
Partner, Strategy & Transformation
15+ years experience in corporate strategy and business transformation. Former strategy director at a Big 4 firm.
MBA from Wharton • BS from Stanford
Michael Roberts
Partner, Operational Excellence
20+ years in operations management and process optimization. Six Sigma Master Black Belt. Former COO of manufacturing company.
MBA from Kellogg
Dr. Aisha Patel
Partner, Digital & Analytics
12+ years in data science and digital transformation. Former Chief Data Officer.
PhD in Computer Science from Carnegie Mellon • Specialized in AI/ML
James Wilson
Partner, Financial Advisory
18+ years in financial advisory and M&A. Former investment banker at Goldman Sachs.
CFA • MBA from Columbia • BS in Finance from NYU Stern
Jennifer Callahan
Senior Partner, Procurement & Supply Chain Excellence
Extensive experience in strategic sourcing and government procurement, specializing in federal acquisition regulations (FAR/DFARS), category management, and supply chain optimization for defense and commercial sectors.
MBA • BS Industrial Engineering • Professional Certifications in Supply Chain Management
David Thornton
Managing Partner, Energy & Natural Resources
Deep operational experience in oil & gas, mining, and energy infrastructure. Specializes in upstream and midstream operations, project management, and strategic planning for energy sector clients across major producing regions.
MS Petroleum Engineering • BS Mechanical Engineering • Professional Engineer
Marcus Delgado
Partner, State & Local Government Affairs
Extensive experience in state and local government relations, specializing in economic development strategies, regulatory compliance, and building productive relationships with state officials across multiple jurisdictions.
MPA Public Affairs • BA Political Science • Government Relations Professional
Patricia Chen
Senior Partner, Federal Affairs & Defense Contracting
Extensive experience in federal affairs and defense contracting, specializing in government procurement regulations, defense acquisition policy, and strategic relationships with federal agencies across the defense industrial base.
Advanced degree in Policy • Defense Acquisition Professional • PMP
Join Our Team
We’re always looking for talented consultants who share our passion for driving client success.