Maria Alejandra De Cordova is a seasoned human resources executive with over 33 years of leadership experience at Procter & Gamble. Deeply committed to her values and principles, she is resilient and positive by nature, living by the motto, “Enjoy the ride, smile daily, life is unique, dare to be happy no matter what.” A proud mother to Diego and Daniela and the life partner of Marco, Maria Alejandra embraces her dual nationality—Venezuelan and American—and is a designer by heart, with a love for color, light, and shape. Passionate and hardworking, she thrives on bringing out the best in people, seeing herself as an influencer, equalizer, and lifelong learner with a growth mindset. Based in Boston and serving as Vice President of Human Resources with a global scope, Maria Alejandra is committed to empowering teams, fostering inclusive workplace cultures, and aligning HR strategies with organizational goals. She has led global HR initiatives for brands like Gillette and Venus and transformed operations across Latin America, specializing in talent management, culture change, and organizational design. Recognized as a transformational, strategic, and passionate leader—qualities she has honed through learning from talented individuals worldwide across diverse disciplines and cultures. A passionate advocate for equity and inclusion, Maria Alejandra has led initiatives like women’s networks and talent development programs, driving organizational success through people-centered strategies.

My decision to join the board was inspired by a profound desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of those within our community who need it most. Witnessing the struggles of individuals and families around me ignited a passion for fostering kindness and support, and I recognized that by uniting with like-minded individuals, we could create a powerful force for positive change. This commitment to our mission fuels my dedication, as I believe in the transformative power of compassion and the ripple effect it can have.

One leadership insight that I prioritize to drive success within our organization is the importance of listening with the heart. This approach goes beyond merely hearing words; it involves truly understanding the emotions and intentions behind them. By fostering an environment where team members feel heard and valued, we create a culture of trust and collaboration. This practice encourages open dialogue, allowing individuals to share their ideas and concerns freely, which not only enhances team cohesion but also sparks innovation.

I am most excited about the incredible possibilities that lie ahead for our organization in the coming year, particularly in our mission to remain a united helping hand for our community. As we work together, I envision us expanding our outreach initiatives and developing new programs that will make a significant impact on those who need support the most. At the same time, I look forward to how we can create more awareness and continue our mission to bring more people to help the communities.

My advice for those looking to bolster their leadership skills is to give hope and be genuinely present for others. It’s essential to create a safe space where team members feel supported and understood, which means showing your own vulnerabilities and embracing the human side of leadership. By acknowledging challenges and being open about your experiences, you foster an environment of trust and authenticity. This not only encourages others to share their thoughts and feelings but also promotes collective learning and growth. Leadership is not just about directing others; it’s about walking alongside them, inspiring hope even in difficult times, and facing the realities of our situations together