Title: Sr. Account Manager
Company: Siracusa Staffing & Leasing (SS&L)
Length of time your company has been a FEI sponsor: We joined in last month
Work email: [email protected]
Work phone number: (813) 528-0967
Tell us a little bit about your career, educational/professional background and how you got to where you are today.
I was born and raised in the Republic of Moldova (former USSR) and grew up in a family of intellectuals in the capitol city. I graduated from the State University of Moldova in 1990 and attended the graduate school at the Academy of Science of Moldova from 1990 to 1992. My educational background is physics, semiconductors and solar cells to be precise.
My professional background is quite diverse, from teaching physics in high school to working in the fashion and international moving industry in Budapest. I have spent the last 15 plus years in the human resources outsourcing industry, known as Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs). Before joining Siracusa Staffing, I worked at Modern Business Associates, a local boutique PEO in St. Pete. My most recent focus was sales and business development, as well as assisting my clients grow and operate profitably.
Have you ever done anything out of the ordinary to apply for and/or get a job?
During my first year in the United States (2002), I found that Eckerd College was hiring a secretary for their Creative Arts Collegium. I didn’t have a cell phone or computer at the time, so I faxed my resume to Sterling Watson, the collegial chair and well-known writer, and got an interview, and ultimately the job. This was one of my favorite employers, and I cherish the extraordinary life-long friends that I have made among the faculty and administrative office staff at Eckerd College.
What is your best networking tip?
Take your time. Be genuine in your interest in other people. Hang out ONLY with the people you like and feel a connection with. This is a marathon and not a sprint. Be willing to give and connect people, and you will receive back when the time is right.
Why does your company sponsor FEI Tampa Bay Chapter?
It is a professional organization of a different level than most. Because if a CFO gets an idea, the rest of the leadership team at a company will, too.
Plus, we really feel like we have a special product that, while it might not be beneficial for all, or even many of the FEI members, for those whom it will be helpful, we feel like it will be extremely valuable. There is currently a void in PEO services for the members within the FEI community, and we would really like to help fill that gap with our wonderful and very capable preferred providers.
What are some activities you participate in to advance the profession or your career?
I recently graduated from Leadership St. Petersburg, class of 2018. I learned a ton about myself and my leadership style. I also read a lot, about a lot of things and research the subjects that fascinate me. I think, and I take time to relax and recharge. That makes me more productive during the work week.
What are some of your personal hobbies outside of work?
I currently speak 5 languages and hope to continue to trend of picking up new languages. I love to read, dance, move and draw. I adore spending time with my family and friends. I also love to boat, plant trees, cook and entertain. I wish I had 40 hours in each day.