How do you explain your profession to people outside of the industry? What do you find most exciting and/or rewarding about this work?
Along with some of the industry’s best designers that I am honored to call my team, I am reimagining how people shop, work, live, play and travel. As it relates to retail, I am focused on the human needs and conveniences, integration of innovative new technologies and how to personalize the customer service within retail, food and beverage, and entertainment environments. The most rewarding part of my work is the ability to create memorable moments. The physical space is a stage against which experience can be recalled, and to be able to curate, create, and cultivate these spaces is extremely gratifying.
What milestone or accomplishment have you made in your career that you are most proud of?
In early 2020, I was assuming a leadership role as VP of Tenant Design with URW. Then, the world as we all knew it turned upside-down. The following two years were nothing short of challenges, difficult circumstances with a volatility never seen before.
The resilience and commitment with which my newly formed team dealt with the uncertainties of the time, and the trust they extended to me as I led the way are things I will cherish for many years.
What is one notable achievement (personal or professional) that you've made over the past year?
In the past year, my role has evolved quite a bit. I have the opportunity to lead the Design division for the U.S. business (Architecture, Retail Design, Aviation), and I am extremely proud of the quality, intensity and innovation displayed in our latest designs. One great example is the new indoor-outdoor social destination district at Westfield Topanga & The Village in Los Angeles, which showcases a chef-driven food hall experience unlike anything else in the local community.
What is a piece of media that has inspired you professionally?
I have recently been following leaders and inspiring coaches that focus on pivoting times and strategies on how to navigate while empowering my team. Some of my current favorite channels and tools are “The Ready Zone” by Esther Weinberg and Brené Brown podcasts. When I need to smile a bit, I stop by the Good News Movement social media page!
Please share one fun or surprising fact about yourself:
My family is one big melting pot. My family comes from Italy, my dad comes from Uruguay, I was born in Brazil, my sister married someone who is Japanese, my uncle is Palestinian, my husband is Russian and my daughter was born in the USA!
