Shari DeMarco

Vice President of Project Management Oversight and Data Strategy

I love working for Future Plans to ensuring students and jobseekers—especially those in under‑resourced regions—have access to the support, insights, and tools they need to discover their strengths and pursue meaningful careers.

About Shari DeMarco

As one of the founding employees of Future Plans, Shari DeMarco has spent eight years helping shape the organization from the ground up, contributing to nearly every functional area—including project delivery, IT leadership, HR, finance, and program operations. Her deep institutional knowledge and operational expertise give her a uniquely comprehensive understanding of the systems, people, and mission that drive Future Plans’ work.

In her current role as Vice President of Project Management Oversight & Data Strategy, Shari leads the department responsible for ensuring that all Future Plans initiatives deliver on their objectives and remain aligned with the organization’s mission to end poverty one person at a time. She oversees project performance across diverse regions and programs, guiding team leads in meeting grant requirements, maintaining consistency, and implementing high‑quality programming across large‑scale, multi‑county initiatives. Her leadership ensures Future Plans not only fulfills commitments but consistently exceeds expectations through disciplined project management and strong cross‑functional collaboration.

Shari also directs the organization’s data strategy, shaping how Future Plans measures impact and communicates results. She works closely with schools, employers, workforce partners, and community organizations to deliver clear, actionable data that supports informed decision‑making. Under her guidance, data becomes a strategic asset—helping partners identify strengths, understand workforce trends, and build stronger pathways for students and jobseekers.

Her commitment to rural communities is deeply personal. Raised in rural Geauga County, Shari experienced firsthand the limited access to opportunities that young people in isolated areas often face. This perspective fuels her dedication to ensuring students and jobseekers—especially those in under‑resourced regions—have access to the support, insights, and tools they need to discover their strengths and pursue meaningful careers.

Shari holds a bachelor’s degree in Technical and Applied Science with a focus on healthcare management. Her early background in veterinary medicine, legal environments, and management strengthened her analytical and interpersonal skills, shaping her relationship‑centered leadership style. She is known for prioritizing team development, investing in people, and helping staff find roles that align with their strengths and aspirations.

Outside of work, Shari is a proud goalie mom, dedicating much of her time to supporting her two sons in their year‑round hockey careers. She enjoys traveling for tournaments, building community with other families, and cheering on her kids as they pursue their goals.