My journey, both personally and professionally, has been anything but linear. Born in the vibrant culture of Brazil and later becoming a naturalized American, for the past three years, I’ve been living the art de vie Française, and now, I stand on the brink of a new chapter, God knows where. This amazing blend of cultures, languages, and perspectives in my personal life beautifully parallels my professional voyage as an FP&A professional over the past 15 years. In this role, I've discovered that financial modeling is much like holding a diplomatic passport, granting me access to a multitude of 'countries' within the corporate world.

Each department I've supported as an FP&A professional has been a unique 'country' in its own right, complete with its own 'language' - the specific systems, jargon, and practices that define its business culture. The IT department, with its rapid innovation and growth metrics, speaks a vastly different dialect compared to the precise, efficiency-oriented language of Procurement. Similarly, the creative lexicon of a marketing team contrasts starkly with the structured language of a finance division.

In this world of corporate diversity, financial modeling has been my universal translator and diplomatic passport. It has enabled me to not just visit but actively engage with these various 'countries.' With each financial model I build, I embark on a diplomatic mission, navigating through the unique landscapes of departments and industries, posing critical questions, and collecting insights. This passport allows me to traverse borders within the business world, understanding and connecting with each distinct corporate culture.

More than a tool for analysis, each financial model I create is an exercise in diplomacy. It’s a way to engage in a dialogue with each department, respecting their individuality while seeking common ground and mutual understanding. This process involves not just translating numbers into strategies but also decoding cultural nuances, operational philosophies, and market dynamics.

This journey has taught me the art of diplomatic engagement in the business world. Like any skilled diplomat, I've learned to navigate diverse corporate terrains with sensitivity and acumen, using financial models to build bridges, foster collaborations, and uncover valuable insights. These models have become my way of not just witnessing but influencing the narrative of the businesses I work with, allowing me to contribute meaningfully while continually enriching my understanding of the global corporate landscape.

I am constantly reminded of the continuous journey of learning and adaptation that awaits with my next steps. In both life and business, the financial models I craft will continue to be my diplomatic passport, opening doors to new experiences, perspectives, and opportunities in the ever-evolving world of business.