Leslie Strazzullo’s story is a captivating one of adventure and career transformation. Now 55 and thriving as a marketing manager in Milan, Leslie reflects on her decision to leave her hometown of Boston two decades ago.
Back in 2004, Leslie took a leap of faith, trading the familiar surroundings of Beantown for the vibrant and glamorous streets of Milan, Italy.
Leslie’s connection to Italy ran deep; her family had roots there, which made her decision to join an exchange program at Bocconi University’s business school while earning her MBA an exciting one.
During her studies, she also interned at Pirelli, an Italian manufacturer known for its tires and telecom equipment.
After graduation, Pirelli offered her a full-time role leading marketing and communications for its telecom division, marking the beginning of her Italian career.
In an article for CNBC’s *Make It* column, Leslie recounts her journey with fondness. She writes about the thrill of moving to Milan, a city she had fallen in love with during her internship.
With just a few connections from her time as an intern, she embraced the new role of marketing communications manager at PGT Photonics S.P.A., which was then part of the Pirelli Company.
Leslie recalls her excitement rather than anxiety about this new chapter. Her enthusiasm for the opportunity was palpable, and she quickly made Milan her home.
Over the years, Leslie has held various positions, including a significant role at Honeywell in North Carolina, and returned to Milan for her current role at Abb, a Swiss robotics and machine automation company.
Through her experiences, Leslie has gained valuable insights. Here are some of her key tips:
Leslie advises embracing the local quirks and challenges. She recalls the bureaucratic hurdles she faced, from long waits in City Hall to dealing with grumpy government workers.
Her advice? Don’t sweat the small stuff. Adjusting to life in a new country often means navigating its unique systems and learning to accept these as part of the experience.
Determination played a crucial role in Leslie’s career. When Pirelli sold its telecom division and Leslie faced job uncertainty, she relied on strategic networking and perseverance.
She connected with former colleagues and business school alumni, ultimately landing a position with a U.S. multinational in Italy.
Her persistence paid off, reinforcing the importance of resilience.
Adapt to Change
Leslie highlights the significance of adapting to your new environment.
She learned to let go of her old ways and embrace Italian culture and language. It took her time to become comfortable with Italian, but the effort paid off, enriching her professional and personal life.
Budget Wisely
Managing finances was another lesson Leslie learned.
She encountered unexpected expenses, like the cost of obtaining a driver’s license in Italy. Additionally, she navigated the complexities of international taxes, ensuring she wasn’t taxed twice.
Leslie advises working with an accountant and budgeting for both expected and unexpected costs to maintain financial stability.
Reflecting on a Fulfilling Life
Looking back, Leslie is grateful for her decision to step out of her comfort zone.
Her move to Milan has not only advanced her career but also allowed her to travel extensively and build a fulfilling life.
With a strong career and a vibrant personal life, Leslie feels enriched by the opportunities and experiences she has embraced in Italy.
TDPel Media
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