Zakaria Benyacoub

Zakaria is the Managing Director of Business Operations for Graduate Programs and Executive Education at the SMU Cox School of Business. Since joining SMU Cox in 2005, Zakaria has played a pivotal role in leveraging his financial expertise, hospitality background, and academic experience to enhance departmental operations.

Zakaria's professional journey began in the hospitality industry in Chicago, where he built a strong foundation in customer service. He later transitioned to academia at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management, managing Event Logistics and Guest Services at the James L. Allen Center. This experience allowed him to refine his skills in serving executives and graduate students. His career then brought him to Dallas, Texas, where he joined Accenture's Facilities & Services department, further honing his corporate expertise.

Zakaria holds an MBA from the Cox School of Business and a Facility Management Professional (FMP) certification from IFMA.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, he is deeply committed to community service. Zakaria has been an active volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America for over 15 years, earning the prestigious Wood Badge [Advanced National Leadership Training], and currently serves as a Unit Commissioner. He also occasionally volunteers at the North Texas Food Bank and is an engaged community member