Mara Fortin

Mara Fortin is a growth-minded executive, consultant, and entrepreneur with a proven history of driving business expansion and creating opportunities for others. With an undergraduate degree in business and two law degrees, she began her career as a successful attorney before transitioning into entrepreneurship. As the first San Diego franchisee of Nothing Bundt Cakes, she grew her company to seven bakeries, more than 100 employees, and millions in annual revenue. As the sole owner and operator, Mara confidently wore multiple hats as CEO, COO, CFO, and CMO—an experience that honed her adaptability, flexibility, and resilience, while solidifying her reputation as a direct, dependable, and results-driven leader.

Her career story and insights have been featured in Influential Women Magazine, where she discussed her transition from litigator to entrepreneur and consultant, as well as her development of Kendall’s Kitchen, a unique café and gathering space in San Diego. In the interview, she highlighted the professional challenges women often face, including her own experience with gender discrimination while consulting for one of the largest churches in San Diego. Drawing on these lessons, Mara is committed to creating spaces for women to connect, share their achievements, and learn from one another. She is currently focused on expanding her cafe and lounge to include leadership talks from prominent females in all industries, including entertainment, sports and clergy. Mara has dedicated her life to advancing women’s voices in business and leadership.

Today, Mara continues to build on her diverse career as she pursues a Doctorate in Business Administration at Loyola Marymount University. She brings together legal expertise, entrepreneurial success, and consulting insight with high emotional intelligence and a strong sense of optimism. Whether testifying before Congress, guiding small businesses through growth challenges, or empowering women to step confidently into leadership, Mara exemplifies a leader who is adaptable, strategic, and committed to creating lasting impact in her community and beyond.

• Loyola Marymount University, College of Business Administration - DBA
• Pepperdine Caruso Law - LLM
• University of Arizona -JD
• Ambassador University - BSBA