Martin Ignacio P. Lorenzo comes from the ME Class of 1986. He is a born entrepreneur who thrives on challenges and draws inspiration from finding new ways of creating value in diverse business ventures. Known for infusing new energy into otherwise “sleeping giants,” Martin has applied his business savvy to strengthening companies such as Macondray and Del Monte, and more recently, revitalizing and expanding restaurant brands Pancake House, Dencio’s, Teriyaki Boy, Sizzlin’ Pepper Steak, and Le Coeur de France. In most cases, he formed and led management teams either in turning the business around or in propelling it toward dynamic growth. Along the way, he engineered them to provide gainful employment to thousands and to contribute toward robust economic development. Dealing with his fair share of challenges as well as gains in the business, Martin continues to believe that the Filipino entrepreneur is a survivor who will make the most out of seemingly impossible situations, and still come out ahead – a never-say-die attitude undoubtedly forged within the halls of our beloved alma mater.
Martin has always believed deeply in the power of the possible, and sees this most clearly in the youth. He welcomes opportunities to share his experiences with them, whether it be in training sessions with his restaurant group’s young, dynamic, and growing crew or through speaking engagements in university venues, including our own John Gokongwei School of Management. He imparts insights and lessons on entrepreneurship, notably the critical tasks of formulating a strategic plan, marshaling the right resources, and adhering to good corporate governance. He has high hopes for the Filipino youth and their potential as successful business leaders and engineers of change.
After obtaining his ME in 1986, Martin pursued his MBA in International Business major in Finance and Corporate Strategy at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in 1990. He is an active member of various business and civic organizations as well, among them the Young Presidents Organization and the Wharton Penn Club. However, apart from managing his numerous business and civic concerns, Martin says that his biggest job is being a good father to his 12 children. He and his wife, Leah, are both committed to raising all the young Lorenzos to grow up with the right values, attain a good education, and achieve their goals in their respective fields. They are rightfully proud and understandably thrilled that their two eldest sons have decided to follow in their father’s footsteps in the Ateneo; Diego and Mateo are currently in their 4th and 2nd years, respectively, as ME students themselves. We congratulate Martin, who says that guiding his children and watching them chart their own paths is a great source of fulfillment and joy for him.
