Arsen Markarov

About Arsen Markarov

Arsen Markarov is a results-driven professional specializing in securing funding, managing international programs, and driving business growth in complex environments. With expertise in proposal development, talent acquisition, program management, business development, and stakeholder engagement, he has successfully led high-impact initiatives across international development. Arsen has worked on mission-critical projects for leading organizations, including spearheading the first socio-economic baseline assessment of landmine-affected communities in Eastern Ukraine under a DFID contract. At Palladium International, he played a key role in building the company’s International Proposal Talent Acquisition team from the ground up, establishing a critical function that previously did not exist. His ability to identify top-tier talent, craft winning proposals, and streamline recruitment strategies has significantly contributed to organizational growth and competitiveness. With a background in USAID programs, foreign military sales, and international operations, Arsen combines strategic insight with hands-on problem-solving to navigate complex bureaucracies and deliver results. Fluent in English, Russian, and Armenian, he excels in cross-cultural environments and fosters strong relationships with stakeholders across sectors. Due to a recent furlough, Arsen is actively seeking new opportunities in defense contracting, entry-level intelligence roles, international project management, and business development, where he can apply his expertise in government contracting, talent strategy, and international operations. His agility, adaptability, and results-oriented approach make him a strong asset to mission-driven teams operating in dynamic global environments. He is open to new opportunities, collaborations, and discussions on how his skills can add value to organizations in defense, intelligence, and international development.

Experience

1. Senior Associate

   Palladium: Make It Possible

   Jan 2022 — Present · DC, US

   Create and foster relationships with key associations, industry specific organizations, technical specialists• Develop recruitment strategies for each individual proposal across various technical sectors and countries.• Provide recruitment solutions by liaising with proposal teams and hiring managers to ensure full understanding of USAID requirements, preferences, and timeframes.• Schedule interviews, shortlist priority candidates, and ensure compliance with all governmental/client employment specifications.• Conducted an information gathering mission to four Central Asia republics to support the $15 million dollar USAID funded Central Asia/Combating Violent Extremism proposal by interviewing technical specialists, establishing relationships with local partners, and identifying key actors,

Education

• George Washington High School

  High School Diploma

  2006 — 2010

• Georgetown University

  Master's degree

  2025 — 2027

• San Francisco State University

  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

  2010 — 2014