Iulia Ionescu

Twenty-five years ago, Iulia embarked on an unconventional journey, transitioning from studying Sociology and Psychology at the University of Bucharest in Romania to navigating the challenging world of sales in male-dominated industries. This path was not merely a career shift but a profound exploration of her capabilities and a testament to the power of curiosity and resilience.

In the industrial sector, she discovered her niche. Despite being in some companies the sole/ first woman in a field dominated by machines and mechanics, Iulia saw beyond the grease and gears to the potential for innovation and growth. It wasn't easy. Every success was hard-won, teaching her invaluable lessons in empathy, strategic thinking, and leadership.

Starting as a Branch Manager at GEF Facilities, Iulia directed daily office operations and managed sales teams. Her career evolution was characterized by a series of strategic roles, each marking her ascent through the ranks of industrial and life sciences sectors. As she moved into roles with increasing responsibility—from National Sales Manager at Legris Romania and eventually leading large-scale strategic accounts across Europe at IDEXX—her expertise in strategic negotiations, team building, and international leadership solidified.

Now residing in Vienna, her journey continues to be about breaking barriers and redefining possibilities. Learning to ride a motorcycle at 42 was more than a personal milestone; it symbolized her life philosophy: embrace challenges, remain steadfast in the face of the unknown, and always believe in the journey’s worth.

Today, as the Sr. Director & Head of European Strategic and Corporate Accounts at IDEXX Laboratories, Iulia oversees a complex portfolio worth $150MM, achieving remarkable growth through strategic acquisitions and transformational projects. Under her leadership, her teams have redesigned organizational structures to enhance customer centricity and improve end-to-end diagnostic solutions.

Iulia's narrative is not just her own but a beacon for those who dare to dream and challenge their limits. It's a message of empowerment, especially for women in challenging environments, proving that with resilience and a willingness to embrace change, transformation from an introvert to a leader isn't just possible; it's inevitable.

As a mentor, Iulia brings a wealth of experience in navigating complex matrix organizations and leading high-performing teams across different cultures and industries. She offers her mentees insights into strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, and the nuances of driving growth in diverse geographies. Her approach is hands-on, fostering a nurturing environment where mentees can develop their strategic and leadership skills. Her story is a powerful example of how embracing continuous learning and facing challenges head-on can lead to extraordinary personal and professional growth.

With her involvement in initiatives like the Women International Motorbike Association in Austria and The Female Factor Community, Iulia continues to champion the cause of leadership diversity and innovation. Her life and career are testaments to the power of determination, making her an ideal mentor for those looking to make significant strides in their careers and personal lives.