Steven Sarafian

Technology Executive · Founder, Zentech Systems

Steven Sarafian is a technology executive based in West Palm Beach, Florida, with more than 25 years of experience leading technology, e-commerce and operations in consumer and B2B businesses. He is the founder and principal of Zentech Systems LLC, an independent consultancy that helps PE-backed and middle-market companies turn AI, automation and business systems into measurable ROI. As CIO at SlimFast, he led the teams that grew annual e-commerce revenue from $2 million to more than $40 million.

Growing Up and Education

Steven was born and raised in Melrose, Massachusetts, where he spent his childhood before moving on to higher education. He attended Southern New Hampshire University, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. This educational foundation gave him the tools to understand business and technology, which would be the basis for his professional journey.

After graduating, Steven joined Hyper Network Solutions (HNS), a West Palm Beach wholesale health-products company, in 1999. He rose from Senior Account Manager and National Media Director to Chief Operating Officer, and as COO from 2010 to 2014 helped grow sales from $4 million to $45 million before the company’s sale to private equity. Working across sales, marketing, finance and IT there gave him a lasting interest in using technology to solve business problems.

Making Waves at SlimFast

In 2014, Steven took on a significant challenge when he joined SlimFast, then a Kainos Capital portfolio company, as CIO and EVP of eCommerce. At the time, SlimFast was navigating the shift from a traditional business model to a digital-first approach. He was brought in to lead this transformation.

One of his key initiatives was overhauling SlimFast’s e-commerce platform. Although the company had a loyal customer base, it had not yet fully embraced online sales. Steven worked to create an online store that allowed SlimFast to sell directly to consumers. This effort led to creating ShopSlimFast, an omnichannel platform that expanded the company's reach.

Steven also recognized the need for a more personalized customer experience. He led the development of the SlimFast Together app, which allowed users to track their progress and receive customized recommendations. The app became a great success, quickly amassing over one million downloads in its first year.

Thanks to his leadership, SlimFast saw a dramatic increase in its digital revenue, with online sales growing from $2 million in 2016 to over $40 million by 2021. This success is a testament to how effectively Steven combined technology with business strategy to produce significant results.

Steven was part of the management team when Kainos Capital sold SlimFast to Glanbia in 2018. He continued as CIO at Glanbia Performance Nutrition, later adding VP of Integrated Marketing for DTC and Acquisition, and led the team that launched ShopSlimFast, the brand’s first direct-to-consumer store, in February 2021.

Zentech Systems

In 2018, Steven founded Zentech Systems LLC, an independent technology consultancy based in Florida. Zentech advises PE-backed and middle-market companies on governed AI, business systems, Microsoft Fabric data platforms, M&A technology integration, technology diligence and exit readiness.

His approach is practical and measurable: fix the systems, govern the data, automate what moves the P&L, and prove the results. He works through client teams and implementation partners while staying accountable for the outcome.

Learn more at zentech.systems/steven-e-sarafian.

Achievements and Recognition

Steven’s career is marked by several notable achievements, particularly his success at SlimFast. Under his leadership, SlimFast grew its digital sales significantly, from $2 million to over $40 million. His work transformed the company’s digital presence, making it more accessible to consumers while offering a personalized experience.

Steven is also well-regarded for his ability to lead large, complex projects. He has successfully overseen digital transformations, built high-performing teams, and helped businesses thrive in competitive markets. His ability to combine technical expertise with business insight has earned him recognition throughout his career.

Leadership Style and Vision

Steven’s leadership approach is based on collaboration, creativity, and continuous improvement. He believes in creating an environment where team members are encouraged to share ideas, take risks, and embrace new technologies. He understands that flexibility and openness to change are essential for staying ahead of the competition in a fast-moving business world.

Throughout his career, he has worked to build cultures where people from different departments collaborate toward shared goals. He believes great results come from teams working together toward a common vision, and he has consistently fostered an atmosphere where innovation thrives.

Balancing Work and Life

Despite the demands of his career, Steven understands the importance of balancing work and personal time. He values spending time with his family and engaging in activities that help him unwind. Among his favorite hobbies are golfing and fishing, which allow him to relax and recharge outside of his professional responsibilities.

Steven Sarafian’s career has been defined by his ability to combine technology and business strategy to drive growth. His leadership at HNS, SlimFast and Glanbia helped those businesses navigate digital transformation and scale. Through Zentech Systems, he continues to help companies put technology, data and AI to work for measurable results.