Monica Marinucci, Customer Success Lead, Microsoft
A mathematician by training, an IT expert first and then an international manager in a large corporation by career evolution, Monica always worked in multicultural environments where she developed strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build up teams and initiatives in cutting edge and innovative markets.
Monica joined Microsoft in 2019 after 15 years in Oracle. Before working for the industry, Monica spent nine years in Research, most of which at CERN in the High Energy Physics sector. For more than 10 years she was also active as an external Expert and Evaluator for the Research and Development Programs of the European Commission.
Monica actively contributed to the development of women’s networks over the last 15 years by being an active member of three CWF Committees and Swiss Leader of her company Women’s Leadership program for several years. She believes that the key to personal and professional success is to stay true to yourself.
Who are you, in three words?
Authentic, positive, believes in the power of change.
What would you do differently if you could travel back in time?
Take a sabbatical year before University. I love travelling and meeting people from different horizons, challenging my way of living in comparison to “other realities”. I have been traveling extensively professionally and personally, but I think that traveling when young is a much bigger eye-opener. It’s a key asset for the future that helps shape the vision of who you want to be.
What advice do you give to a new generation of women entering the job market?
Follow your passion and trust your intuition. I think that these two characteristics are better developed in younger generations than before. Still I feel the responsibility to underline the importance of both for the new generations of women
Which skill(s) would you like to possess?
To be a skilled speaker. Despite the fact that I spend most of my days communicating, presenting, interacting and negotiating with people, I am still developing the art of speech. Additionally, I would like to possess a stronger musical talent to fully enjoy my playing my violin!
Do you have a particular skill?
I am structured and resourceful AND I’m a problem solver, a skill acquired through my pragmatic, scientific background. The skill I like the most is my ability to listen.
What is your perception about the benefits of networking?
It is not a perception, rather a certainty: the benefit of networking is the opportunity to open up your mind to alternatives in every aspect of life. It offers a chance to develop yourself and to help others by sharing.
Which book should we read?
The DoveKeepers by Alice Hoffman. A story about power and endurance of women who have a thousand facets!
What do you suggest to change and or improve at the CWF?
To admit young women with pragmatic and forward looking ideas that can help lead the transformation towards a better future, economy and society.
What are the opportunities and challenges for the CWF?
To transform itself in line with time and to continue offering opportunities for its members to evolve professionally and personally.
A final message?
Allow yourself to be who you want to be.