Spotlight on Women in Leadership: Veronica, Head of International

As Head of International Operations, Veronica Cortizo leads Adzuna’s international team, overseeing daily operations and developing global operational strategies across 16 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. She also stepped up recently, playing a key role in the management team. 

Born and raised in Brazil, Veronica moved to London and joined Adzuna in 2016 as Country Manager for Brazil, bringing her decades of vast knowledge and experience in international business. Throughout her seven years at Adzuna, she was promoted not once, not twice, but three times! Prior to her appointment as Head of International this January, she served as Regional Marketing & Operations Manager. 

Veronica has been vocal about gender parity, and she is on our diversity and inclusion committee. In light of International Women’s Day, Veronica shares her experience as a woman in leadership, as well as her takes on how we can progress towards equality.

Q: You’ve recently been promoted to Head of International Operations. How do you feel about the promotion? 

Veronica: I’m thrilled and very excited about this new change, especially the chance to lead a larger team, shoulder more responsibilities, and make a significant contribution to Adzuna’s overall success.

One major difference I’ve identified so far is the fact that I am now responsible for overseeing not just a specific region or aspects of our operations, but the entire scope of strategic decision-making for our international markets. As a result, I am focusing on a broader strategic approach and working closely with other areas of the business to ensure alignment. Additionally, I’m now part of Adzuna’s management team as well, which is a major milestone for me.

Q: What made you stay at Adzuna for seven years?

V: It's surprising to think about how long I've been working for Adzuna because it feels like I joined not too long ago. If I had to put a finger on it, there are a few things that made me stay this long: the feeling that I am always learning something new, the opportunities to grow within the company, and definitely the team and the company culture. Adzuna always managed to hire great people, which has made my experience so much more enjoyable.

Q: What does working in the International team feel like?

V: We’re a friendly and diverse team: The fact that each one of us comes from a different background and culture really complements the experience of working together. We have brilliant people who work hard and still find time to enjoy each other's company. 

Q: What stereotypes of women in leadership would you like to see broken?

V: It’s sad to see how many outdated and sexist stereotypes about women in leadership positions still continue to persist today. Since many of these biases have been reinforced over time by the historical predominance of men in leadership roles, there is a supposition deeply ingrained in workplace dynamics that good leaders should possess masculine traits.

As long as we associate leadership with masculinity only, it would be challenging for women to be recognised for their work and capabilities. This is also putting women at risk of being judged when displaying certain traits that might not fit the mould. 

Q: What advice do you have for other women to push forward?

V: A close friend of mine once told me, “You don't have to follow all of society’s expectations. You can create your own path and shape your own approach to life.” I find it helpful to remind myself of her advice every so often.

Just because you don't fit the mould of a “traditional” leader doesn't mean you can't lead well. You can lead in your own unique way, and that's perfectly fine. 

We need to be actively working to break down these stereotypes and barriers by sharing our experiences, supporting other women, and speaking out against discriminatory behaviours.

Q: What’s your book recommendation to celebrate International Women’s Day?

V: There are many great books out there, but I would like to recommend 'Invisible Women: Exposing Data Bias in a World Designed for Men' by Caroline Criado Perez. 

This book provides a lot of data to show how women are often ignored and excluded when designing the world in which we live. It brings to light the importance of continuing to fight for gender equality.

Q: What can men do to advance gender equity at work?

V: The first step towards promoting gender equality is to acknowledge their male privilege of being born into a society that was built by and for men. The best way to do that is just listen attentively to women's experiences. 

Once you’ve realised that this group does not have the same access to the unearned male privileges that many men take for granted, you can start supporting the women in your life and show solidarity. You can start small by calling out microaggressions in the workplace, such as sexist jokes, ensuring women get credit for their ideas and work, and making sure that networking events are inclusive. 

There is still a long way to go and we need to continue taking steps towards this direction together - all of us, regardless of your gender.

Interested in joining the team at Adzuna? We’re hiring! Take a look at our current open roles on our Careers page.