Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate, and Evolve.

Leaders at Equinix: Avigail Kalish

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 20:00:00 +0000

Leading the Way

Get ready to dive into our brand-new series, "Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate, and Evolve." In this exciting series, we're going to take a closer look at what it truly means to be a leader at Equinix. We'll be peeling back the curtain and giving you an inside scoop on the biggest lessons our leaders have learned throughout their career journeys.

From the ups and downs to the triumphs and challenges, we'll be exploring the real-life experiences of our incredible leaders and how they navigate the ever-changing landscape of leadership. Join us as we uncover the secrets to success, the power of mentorship, and the importance of fostering a thriving team culture.

Our first interviewee, Avigail Kalish, is a Senior Manager on the Talent Management team at Equinix. We sat down with Avigail to get a look at her career journey and what it means to lead at the world’s digital infrastructure company.

Avigail has embarked on a journey of growth and self-reflection in her roles as a people manager and in designing and leading leadership development programs. Throughout her experiences, she has encountered a profound lesson that has had a lasting impact on her approach to leadership – the power of challenging assumptions.

Challenge Assumptions

“Both in my role as a people manager and in my role in designing and leading leadership development programs, I’ve learned about assumptions and how they can hinder your judgement,” says Avigail. “Our assumptions are based on our experiences, and sometimes, even with the purest positive intent at heart, they lead us to misjudgments. My direct employees challenged me more than once to examine my assumptions, and by that, develop myself as a leader.”

But what is the best way to challenge and reflect on those assumptions? “We talk a lot about listening, but I would add that listening is not enough. You also need to be comfortable in asking questions and assuming (that’s one assumption that I can encourage!) that you don’t know and try not to assume you have the answers – if there is doubt, simply ask. I can always do better in asking, and I hope to improve on that with the help of the people I lead,” Avigail says.

The Value of Mentorship

When asked about what books, podcasts, or leadership courses inspire her, Avigail turns to her personal connections for her biggest source of inspiration. “I have to admit that with all the courses I’ve participated in or books I read, I learn more from people – my manager, my peers, my direct reports, and mostly…. my husband. He is the greatest leader I know and usually every challenge that I have, he has already experienced,” she says.

In the tech world, mentorship is invaluable when it comes to our fast-paced environment. We fail (and learn!) fast, adapt, and evolve to our constantly changing landscape. How does Avigail view mentorship? “I am lucky to have had more than one mentor in my life. I think that what was most impactful was their unwavering belief in me. When you have someone that believes you are capable, you have the motivation to try, and even if you make mistakes along the way, they will be there to remind you that it’s okay, and that’s how you learn,” states Avigail.

Not only does she turn to her mentors as a source of guidance, but Avigail also serves as a mentor for her team. “I care about them as individuals outside of work, and what they are bringing to work with them,” says Avigail. “I care about their development at work, and how they can continue to shine, be proud of their achievements, try new things, make mistakes and learn from them, and ultimately be happy.”

Global Leaders

Lastly, our leaders across the globe at Equinix are trailblazers for growth and change. How does Avigail want to be remembered by her team? “I want to be remembered for the simple things: For taking the time to listen, for remembering events that are important to the people I lead, and for asking how they are doing. Yes, I would love to be the leader that inspires, but ultimately, it’s these small things that count in how we bring ourselves to work.”

Stay tuned for more installments of our "Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate, and Evolve” series! We’ll be back soon with additional stories and insight from our inspirational leaders.

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Leaders at Equinix: Carol Wang

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 20:00:00 +0000

Unleashing Sales Success

Welcome back to our "Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate, and Evolve" series! In the world of sales, success is often achieved through a combination of hard work, skill development, and a strategic approach to career growth. We had the privilege of speaking with Carol Wang, Sales Director for Equinix Malaysia, to gain insights into her remarkable sales career journey, aspirations, and valuable advice for individuals seeking to elevate their sales careers.

From her initial accomplishments to her seamless transition into a leadership role, Carol's story serves as a true inspiration for those aiming to excel in the dynamic and competitive sales industry.

Resilience and Adaptability

Why does Carol love sales? “Being an introvert, I never thought that I would become a salesperson. I enjoy meeting people and learning work and life perspectives from them, many of whom have also become my friends and mentors. I find adrenaline in driving new opportunities for businesses and managing customer pricing strategies," she says.

Additionally, what does she believe are some key attributes required for a successful sales career? "Resilience, adaptability, and the motivation to constantly learn and improve are crucial in the sales industry. For individual contributors moving into people manager roles, it is also critical to be a problem solver and a big collaborator to gain trust and respect with team members," says Carol.

Network of Mentors

When asked what has enabled her to advance her career in sales Carol says, "It is important to have a career building mindset and not see any role as just a job. I started to craft my career path early in my career journey and looked for opportunities to gain knowledge and experience to develop myself across the ecosystem in the tech industry—learning hardware, new technologies, managing customer relationships. I love the technology industry where technologies change so rapidly. I also jumped at opportunities that allowed me to learn from peers and managers across the globe who inspire me to improve myself. Having a network of mentors also helped me navigate my career trajectory. They provided valuable insights into various aspects of sales leadership, career development, and opened doors to new opportunities. I also set a timeline for myself to move from various sales positions leading up to leadership roles."

Team Development

How does she set up her team for success in achieving sales targets and deepening their professional development? "I set aside time to understand my team members personally and be on the ground with them, bringing my experience to help them solve problems. This approach fosters a positive and productive work environment. I strongly believe in leading by example and effectively coordinating with my team to achieve sales targets. I work with my team members to develop personalized development plans, discuss their career aspirations during performance review conversations, and identify steps to help them achieve their goals," states Carol.

Carol's sales journey and career aspirations serve as a testament to the possibilities and opportunities available in the sales industry. If you are looking to pave your own path to success in the dynamic world of sales, consider exploring opportunities with Equinix.

Stay tuned for more installments of our "Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate, and Evolve” series! We’ll be back soon with additional stories and insight from our inspirational leaders.

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Leaders at Equinix: Grace Khor

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 20:00:00 +0000

Leading Through Change

In this edition of "Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate, & Evolve," we have the privilege of delving into the leadership insights of Grace Khor, Vice President, Legal, Global Contracts at Equinix. Grace shares her experiences and lessons learned as a leader, emphasizing the importance of communication, a global outlook and fostering a united and successful team. Join us as we gain valuable insights from Grace's leadership journey at Equinix.

Reflecting on her hardest leadership lesson, Grace highlights the significance of continuous communication, being accessible and visibly leading through change. To ensure she stays on track, Grace now sets reminders to check in with a variety of people. She states, "My biggest challenge in this global role, and leading through change, is to spend enough time to truly connect with people in different regions. Obviously, time zones, limited time and budgets make it hard to spend quality time with everyone as I would like, but I have learned to maximize the quality of each interaction even if the quantity is limited." Despite the challenges of a global role, she recognizes the importance of connecting with individuals in different regions and understanding how cultural differences and local conditions impact customer, supplier and team reactions, decision-making and deal closures.

Valuable Resources

When asked about the most impactful book, podcast, or leadership course she has learned from, Grace says there are so many it's hard to choose! She mentions Equinix's Archimedes management training course which she attended several years ago. She highlights that the exercise on writing a Mission Statement helped her prioritize her time and focus on what truly matters. Additionally, she finds value in reflection and in immersing herself in content such as the McKinsey, Nike Training, and BBC Outlook podcasts. The others she dips into include Prof G, Unearthed, Freakonomics, and Revisionist History. She enjoys plugging in and walking along Singapore's East Coast Parkway with the sea breeze blowing and listening to podcasts.

The Power of Listening

Grace learned from a key mentor about the transformative power and importance of listening in managing a large team. She emphasizes the significance of actively carving out time to hear what people are thinking, seeing and feeling at all levels. By listening to the team, she gains valuable insights and ensures thoughtful decision-making and an approach that benefits the entire team. Grace encourages seeking advice and feedback and creating an environment where everyone is able to freely share, feels heard and important. She says, "Listening to the team sounds so simple, but it's so impactful. I know I benefit from this and feel heard even if the result is not what I wanted. I hope I give people that same feeling now of being heard - of being important - to the team."

Legacy as a Leader

Grace believes her team would describe her as someone who is passionate. empathetic and cares about their success and well-being. In addition to excellence in domain knowledge, skills and efficiency, she prioritizes empowering the team to get things done, uniting the team and providing the necessary resources for their work, growth and development.

Her goal is to help the team enjoy their work and feel a personal sense of accomplishment. Grace fosters a positive and fun environment, encouraging the team to like what they do and excel in their roles. She creates space for humor to deal with the stress the team faces, and team meetings kick off with time for jokes and personal updates. She says, "The ultimate aim is to encourage our team to like what they do and just do it! The global contracts world has continued to evolve and that won’t stop soon, and I hope the team can see our commitment to their continued success."

As a leader, Grace aspires to be remembered for making people feel seen and heard. She also acknowledges that while focusing on people, at times there is a need for tough conversations in order to drive performance; and that is fair for the whole team. She aims to emulate the courageous, innovative, smart, empowering, kind and impactful leaders she has encountered throughout her career. By prioritizing the success and well-being of her team, Grace hopes to leave a lasting positive impact on their professional and personal lives.

Work and Wellness

Grace acknowledges the ongoing journey and work in progress of finding work-life balance and wellness. She prioritizes activities such as going to the gym, taking walks, spending time with loved ones and giving back to society. By scheduling these activities in her calendar, she ensures they receive the attention they deserve. Grace also incorporates moments of stretching, meditation, and fun into team meetings to promote engagement and a sense of global unity. She loves it when guests are caught off-guard, seeing everyone stretch on Zoom!

Grace's leadership journey at Equinix exemplifies the importance of continuous communication, understanding cultural differences and fostering a united and successful team. Her commitment to making people feel seen and heard, along with her focus on wellness, sets a remarkable example for leaders at Equinix and beyond. Stay tuned for our next installment of "Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate, & Evolve."

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Leaders at Equinix: Jac Matthews

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 20:00:00 +0000

Leading Through Listening

In this edition of "Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate, & Evolve," we have the privilege of delving into the leadership insights of Jac Mathews, Global Operations Sustainability Director at Equinix. Jac shares his experiences and lessons learned as a leader, emphasizing the importance of active listening, continuous learning, and driving sustainable practices. Join us as we gain valuable insights from Jac's leadership journey at Equinix.

Reflecting on his hardest leadership lesson, Jac highlights the significance of actively listening to others. He learned that as a leader, his role is more about listening first and then influencing others to implement solutions. Jac states, "Influencing is easier when you listen first." This lesson has helped him build trust with key stakeholders and drive better outcomes by involving others in the decision-making process. "As a leader, your role is more about actively listening to others to validate or co-create solutions rather than telling people how to do their job. In the business world, solving a problem is only half the journey. Convincing people and taking them along to implement the solution is equally important," says Jac.

Valuable Resources

When asked about the most impactful book, podcast, or leadership course he has learned from, Jac mentions two valuable resources. The first is "Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman, which explores cognitive biases and their impact on decision-making. This book has helped Jac become aware of biases and develop mechanisms to resist them, both at work and in his personal life. The second resource is "Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter" by Liz Wiseman, which delves into different leadership styles and how they can amplify the intelligence and capabilities of a team. Jac aspires to be a "multiplier" who empowers and amplifies the impact of those around him.

Learnings from an Impactful Mentor

Jac's most impactful mentor had a remarkable ability to decipher shifts in business strategy and connect them to the team's goals. "I feel lucky to have found a great mentor very early in my career when I was working as a structural engineer," says Jac. This mentor painted the bigger picture, explaining the strategic rationale for change and inspiring curiosity about strategy in Jac. This experience eventually led him to pursue an MBA with a focus on business strategy. The important lesson Jac learned from his mentor was the value of understanding the strategic context and aligning it with the team's objectives.

Legacy as a Leader

As a leader, Jac wants to be remembered for his lasting impact in the realm of sustainability at Equinix and the wider industry. "During this extraordinary transformational phase for our industry, keeping focused on scaling sustainability is an exciting challenge," states Jac. Additionally, Jac aims to be remembered as someone who multiplied the capabilities and impact of people around him through an empathetic leadership approach.

At Equinix, one of our biggest priorities is the health and wellbeing of our global employees. We ended our chat with Jac by asking him to share some wellness tips to inspire the broader Equinix fam to strengthen their focus on personal wellbeing. "Having clarity on priorities, whether it is work or personal, is key. Pacing your career is another aspect to consider - sometimes you have to sprint, and at other times it may be better to jog. Also, finding a purpose in your career helps to stay motivated," he shares.

Stay tuned for the next installment of our interview series as we dive into more insights and lessons from our inspiring Equinix leaders!

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Leaders at Equinix: Peng Yuan Lee

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 20:00:00 +0000

Making an Impact

Have you ever wondered what it's like to work at Equinix? For many of us, finding a job that aligns with our passions and allows us to make a meaningful impact is a dream come true. At Equinix, this dream becomes a reality. In this edition of "Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate and Evolve," we delve into the experiences of Peng Yuan Lee, Senior Director, Go-To-Market (GTM) Operations (APAC), as she shares what she loves most about being a part of the Equinix team.

For Peng Yuan, the opportunity to influence and contribute to the success of the APAC Sales team is what she loves most about working at Equinix. She shares, "One of the things I love the most about working at Equinix is my ability to contribute to the future state of our route-to-market, by designing the methodology and processes. Now, I have the chance to support the strategy of a team and bring it to life. It's the perfect combination of utilizing my expertise and having meaningful interactions with colleagues and stakeholders."

Furthermore, Peng Yuan is energized by Equinix's culture of continuous learning and development. "Contributing to the success of a team and helping them to achieve their goals is what drives me. At Equinix, I have the chance to do that, and it's rewarding," she says.

A Captivating Journey

When asked about her decision to join Equinix, Peng Yuan highlights the organization's people culture as a standout factor. She shares, "The values and inclusive environment resonated deeply with what I was seeking. The 'we before me' ethos and remarkable leadership exceeded my expectations."

Equinix's complexity and exceptional ecosystem serving diverse industries also intrigued her. Being part of such a dynamic and diverse environment is both impressive and exciting. Additionally, she acknowledges that Equinix's leadership stands out for their ability to anticipate future challenges and actively invest in transforming the industry. Peng Yuan explains,"While achieving significant revenue growth in the data center space over the past 20 years, our leaders have already anticipated future challenges. We actively seek opportunities to invest and transform the industry, going beyond stabilizing our current offerings. Equinix not only thrives in the present but also strives to create the solutions of tomorrow."

She highlights that Equinix's exceptional culture was emphasized from the very beginning of her journey. "Throughout the interview process, I had honest conversations about the culture and the company, which further fueled my interest in the opportunities here. At Equinix, we genuinely care for our people and ensure they are included in the transformation journey," says Peng Yuan.

Collaborative and Inclusive Culture

The culture at Equinix, including Peng Yuan's team, fosters collaboration, inclusivity and a dedication to continuous learning. She describes it as an environment where individuals are encouraged to contribute their unique perspectives, work together toward common goals and constantly strive for improvement. She shares, "Collaboration is at the core of our team culture. We believe that by working together, we can achieve greater results and overcome challenges more effectively. We actively encourage open communication, idea sharing and cross-functional collaboration to drive innovation and success."

Leadership Style

Peng Yuan's leadership style revolves around leading by example, promoting inclusivity and empowering her team members. She believes in creating an environment where everyone feels valued, motivated and inspired to achieve their best. "Empowerment is a crucial element of my leadership style. I believe in empowering my team members by providing them with the necessary resources, support and autonomy to excel in their roles. I encourage them to take ownership of their work, make decisions and contribute their unique skills and ideas. By empowering my team, I aim to create a sense of ownership and accountability, fostering a culture of growth and development," says Peng Yuan.

Peng Yuan Lee's journey at Equinix exemplifies the exciting opportunities and empowering culture that await those who join our team. At Equinix, we believe in empowering our employees to make a real impact, contribute to the future and continuously learn and grow. If you're looking for a dynamic and inclusive environment where you can thrive and shape the industry, Equinix is the place to be. Join us on our journey of empowerment, elevation and evolution.

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Leaders at Equinix: Swapnil Pathare

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 20:00:00 +0000

Elevating Communication & Influencing Change

In this insightful interview, we had the pleasure of speaking with Swapnil Pathare, Director of Product Software Architecture and Engineering at Equinix. Swapnil shares his experiences and lessons learned as he transitioned from an engineer to a leader, the impact of influential mentors, and his approach to fostering wellbeing within his team. Join us as we gain valuable insights from Swapnil's leadership journey at Equinix.

Reflecting on his hardest leadership lessons, Swapnil emphasizes the importance of elevating his communication style. He shares, "The learning for me was a change in my attitude on how I approach problems and ideas." Swapnil found the transition from engineer to leader relatively smooth, thanks to his curiosity and understanding of team-level responsibilities.

He shares, "When I was an individual contributor, I asked enough questions beyond work that was assigned to me, so I had the benefit of understanding that beyond team-level responsibilities, there could be reasons for change at a macro level. That could lead to pivots or adjustments based on our insights with customers or due to market behavior. It’s – in some sense – organized chaos. I have respect for my leaders who tried to reduce the noise and offer us continuity to the extent possible. That's one of the reasons I try to ‘cut the noise’ for others. I try to give more clarity on business decisions for my team members who can then strive to be the best engineers they can be."

Zooming In and Out

Swapnil recommends the podcast "Masters of Scale," which offers both technology and leadership insights. He shares, "There have been people from Facebook, Instagram and MasterClass. Many founders and leaders have participated and shared their guiding principles and processes."

Swapnil continues, "Josh Silverman from Etsy talked about how you cannot be a great leader unless you know when to zoom in and when to zoom out. I’ve always believed that there is no one recipe for a leader. I remember that I have to zoom in to identify the devil in the detail and zoom out to look at the big picture. I try to be grounded, empathetic with my team, and understand people; however, I should also be able to talk to executive leadership with the right level of detail."

How the Team Describes Swapnil

Swapnil humorously shares, "My team will say that Swapnil is passionate, ad hoc, results-driven, empathetic, and a person who talks too much work and too little fun." Swapnil's focus is on making a meaningful impact on engineering excellence and growing people's careers. He shares, "I hope my team members take away confidence from working with me knowing they became better selves and grew their skills. From the company's perspective, I hope I'm able to solve difficult problems for Equinix and make our platform strategy work better than expected."

When asked about his mentors, Swapnil states, "One of the best leaders I had was very passionate but her words were very gentle. You could sense the passion with her discipline in meetings, critical reviews of work and empathy to understand customer problems." Swapnil admires the emotional stability of his mentor, who demonstrated passion without resorting to argumentative or confrontational behavior. "Passion can be demonstrated in various different ways: being thorough and having plenty of information to make data based arguments rather than loud, empty, emotional arguments," he says.

Wellbeing: Balancing Work and Rest

Swapnil's definition of wellbeing revolves around finding a balance between work and rest. He shares, "Leaders know I'm a person who will do the work when it's required and will speak up when there is too much." He encourages his team to prioritize their independence and prove their work, fostering a culture of trust and freedom.

Swapnil's dedication to creating an environment where his team can thrive and his focus on solving difficult problems exemplify his leadership style. As he continues to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of leadership, Swapnil's insights serve as a valuable guide for leaders at Equinix and beyond.

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Leaders at Equinix: Tiffany Osias

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 20:00:00 +0000

Scaling Impact

Get ready to explore the next installment of our series, "Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate, and Evolve." This time, we will delve into the insights and experiences of Tiffany Osias, VP of Colocation at Equinix. Tiffany shares her hardest leadership lesson, the most valuable courses she has taken, the lessons learned from her mentor, and more. Let's dive in!

Reflecting on her early days as a leader, Tiffany reveals that her hardest leadership lesson was learning how to truly scale her impact. As someone who is driven for results and impact, she initially struggled with transitioning from being hands-on to hiring and inspiring others to do the work. Tiffany emphasizes the importance of talent assessment and ensuring that the right people are in the right roles. She shares, "I have a passion around talent – making sure we have the right people in the right roles. This way they can make an impact and enrich their souls."

Legacy as a Leader

Tiffany believes that being a successful leader requires the ability to flex into multiple leadership styles. She shares an insightful perspective, "In order to be relevant in changing business climates, you can't just be one type of leader. You have to be all of them." Tiffany aspires to be remembered as a leader who can adapt and flex into various leadership approaches, leaving a lasting impact on her team and the organization.

How would her team describe her? Tiffany says that her team would likely describe her as driven, passionate, and customer-obsessed. She constantly considers what is best for Equinix's customers and incorporates this mindset into prioritization.

Tiffany is also a lead and SteerCo member of Equinix PrideConnect, our employee resource group dedicated to ensuring LGBTQ+ employees thrive. Equinix PrideConnect aims to exceed the standards of leading global employers for the LGBTQ+ community.

Integrating Work and Life

Tiffany expresses her gratitude for one of her favorite mentors who helped her integrate her personal and professional life. Previously, she was solely focused on success and kept her private life separate. Her mentor encouraged her to embrace her true self and find a balance between work and life. "I loved that she knew how to integrate both things. She knew how to show people what a working parent can be in a really healthy way," she says. Inspired by her mentor, Tiffany now encourages others to prioritize themselves and their personal enrichment.

When it comes to inspiring media, Tiffany recommends the book "The Ideal Team Player: How to Recognize and Cultivate The Three Essential Virtues" by Pat Lencioni. This book emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and humility in leaders.

Prioritizing Wellness

Tiffany acknowledges that prioritizing wellness and wellbeing is an ongoing learning process for her. She shares her experience with the Equinix Archimedes program, where she participated in a corporate athletes session that taught her the importance of prioritizing self-care. Tiffany emphasizes the significance of caring for oneself to be a great spouse, friend, parent, and leader. She sets boundaries and prioritizes activities such as exercise, mindful nutrition, and engaging in activities she loves outside of work.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from our "Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate, and Evolve" series, as we continue to uncover the remarkable journeys of our exceptional leaders.

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Leaders at Equinix: Yuko Aoyagi

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 20:00:00 +0000

Meet Yuko Aoyagi

Welcome back to "Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate, and Evolve.”

In this series, we’re exploring the secret sauce that makes our leaders at Equinix the best of the best. Join us as we dive deep into their career journeys and discover more about what it means to embody the magic of Equinix.

We joined Yuko Aoyagi, Vice President of Product Finance, for a candid discussion on building high-performing teams and the qualities that make for an impactful mentor. If there’s one thing that we took away from our conversation with Yuko, it’s that courage is essential when taking on a position of leadership. Let’s learn more about Yuko!

When it comes to the hardest leadership lesson Yuko’s learned during her career, it all comes down to adapting her team-building strategy for the current environment. “If you’re striving to build a high performing team, you have to cater to the situation that you’re in. I’m still learning, but that’s one of the hard things,” says Yuko. “If you don’t build a team that is super high performing, that impacts people’s future.”

An important part of building high-performing teams is to be an example for your colleagues. “Cross-training is crucial to building high performing teams, as well as setting expectations. You have to lead and show what ‘good’ looks like. Cultivate an environment of asking, ‘Why?’ You can’t know everything, particularly in a finance role, but you can anticipate better if you’re strategic in planning.”

Inspiration & Courage

We asked Yuko to give us a glimpse at media she finds inspirational. At Equinix, we’re passionate about growth and development, so we’re always on the lookout for ways to expand our skills and knowledge. “I love watching TED Talks. Fifteen years ago, one of my employees sent me Derrick Sivers’ “How to Start a Movement” TED Talk. He shows a video of someone suddenly starting to dance in the middle of a park totally alone, but after a while, other people start to follow. My teammate said, ‘This is you.’ That gave me courage to lead even more,” says Yuko. She also states the importance of leadership courses and how it can transform the way you approach leading a team. “I also took a six-month leadership course to lead and facilitate classes. I learned a lot on how to lead and listen. Never settle with mediocrity.”

While chatting with Yuko, it’s clear that courage is something she highly values. “The main lesson I learned from my mentors is courage,” she says. “People think courage means you’re doing things because you’re comfortable or confident, but people who have courage also have fear. They’re scared to do something, but they do it anyway. I strive to lead with courage. In a leadership position, you’re always faced with having to make decisions. You must focus on doing the right thing. Doing the right thing is sometimes not easy, but oftentimes, courage helps you do it.”

The Importance
of Humanity & Diversity

Yuko’s career journey was filled with mentors that taught her this important quality, and she emphasizes how their guidance impacted her life. “I was lucky to have many mentors to help me to get here. When I started my career, I didn’t speak much English. My mentors took a chance on me. They were respectful, caring, and humble. They taught me to be respectful, caring, and humble."

But how would Yuko’s team describe her? “When you’re leading a smaller team, it’s so critical to hire people who are not like you. If you’re similar to someone, it might be easier, but it’s not going to create the right decision. Professionally as a leader, I want to be remembered as a person who lead a team that made a significant impact with a positive outlook. I want our team to make a name of that.”

"It's all about human connections"

Yuko’s goals for the future are not strictly professional. While she has high hopes for her team’s legacy at Equinix, she also wants to be remembered for the way she approaches relationships on a human level. “As a person, I want to be remembered as somebody who can be a long-term friend. When you’re moving a team so fast, things change. What I cherish the most is when a person from twenty years ago calls me and asks for a school reference or sends me a wedding invitation or pictures of their kids. At the end of the day, it’s all about human connections.”

It's clear that Yuko’s passion for her team is rooted in her desire to see them excel. She ends on a note that truly embodies her passion for leading and taking her employees to new heights. “The professional part matters as a leader,” continues Yuko, “but for me, if I can help my team to grow, that means more to me than anything else.”

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Leaders at Equinix: Ryan Khalessi

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 14:09:57 +0000

Empowering Transformation Through Leadership: Insights from Ryan Khalessi

In this edition of our "Leaders at Equinix" series, we are proud to spotlight Ryan Khalessi, Vice President of Business Operations at Equinix. Ryan’s journey with Equinix began as an intern in 2014. Over the past decade, he has made impactful contributions across IT, Customer Success, Product, Transformation, and as Chief of Staff to the CEO. Through his story, Ryan shares invaluable lessons, reflections, and his commitment to fostering a culture of empowerment and adaptability within his team.

Leadership Philosophy: Uplifting Others

When asked about the kind of leader he strives to be, Ryan shared, "I want to be the leader who empowers, uplifts, and supports—always a steady hand trusting others, guiding them forward, ready to catch them if they fall. I’ve been lucky that who I strive to be as a leader has been shaped by the leaders I’ve had at Equinix over the last decade.”

To better understand his leadership style, Ryan turned directly to his team for their perspectives. They described him as a dedicated problem solver who genuinely cares about the people he works with. “My team trusts that I always seek to do what is best for Equinix and our stakeholders – I’ll do the necessary and hard thing and strive to do it in the right way. They feel that I care equally about the outcome and how we achieve it,” he explained.

His team values his blend of direct feedback, focus on growth, and his belief in pairing hard work with shared laughter. While they admire his commitment to excellence, they joked about his occasional “very strong opinions on very small details and obscure topics.”

Navigating Pitfalls with Resilience

Despite his achievements, Ryan openly acknowledges that he faces self-doubt. “Every day in every role I’ve had is full of responsibilities I have never done before. It can feel overwhelming and frequently makes me feel insecure,” he admitted.

Ryan has learned to navigate these moments by being honest about doing something new, surrounding himself with talented teammates, actively listening, and trusting someone tasked him with this role for a reason. “Verbalizing that I am doing this for the first time reminds me that growth comes through discomfort,” he said.

Lessons in Leadership

One of Ryan’s most defining lessons in leadership came early in his career. He recounts a project where he prioritized technical implementation over change management, resulting in its eventual failure. "Even the best solution is ineffective if it isn’t adopted," Ryan remarked.

This experience highlighted the importance of balancing innovation with human adaptability. “Now, I always ask – how will this be received by its customers and stakeholders? A possible negative reaction should not make you shy away from doing something provocative and disruptive – it simply calls for deliberate execution,” he explained.

Integrity as a Cornerstone

Reflecting on the advice of a mentor, Ryan emphasized the importance of unwavering integrity in leadership. “Never compromise your integrity. Encourage debate and dissent of your ideas but never give reason to question your intent.”

Paraphrasing Lady Gaga, Ryan added, “Trust is like a mirror. You can fix it if it’s broken, but you’ll still see the crack in the reflection.”

Balancing Work and Wellness

Ryan candidly admits that achieving work-life balance remains a work in progress. However, he’s found that starting his day with a morning workout enhances his focus and decision-making abilities.
"Identify one positive catalyst in your day and protect it,” he advised. For leaders, Ryan emphasizes the importance of transparency in work habits, ensuring they align with realistic expectations for teams. “Leadership carries the privilege—and burden—of influencing others and sending cues, even when we don’t intend to.”

Ryan Khalessi’s journey from intern to senior leadership reflects his dedication to making an impact rooted in humanity, integrity, and adaptability.

Stay tuned for the next installment of "Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate, & Evolve," as we continue exploring stories of transformational leadership.

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Leaders at Equinix: Ferhan Gunen

Tue, 06 May 2025 13:57:41 +0000

In this edition of our "Leaders at Equinix" series, we are thrilled to spotlight Ferhan Gunen, Vice President, IBX Operations UK. Ferhan’s career began in the mobile industry as a network planning engineer, where she was responsible for designing network infrastructure in Istanbul. Over the years, she has transitioned into leadership roles that emphasize empowerment, development, and team dynamics. Through her story, Ferhan shares invaluable lessons, reflections, and her commitment to fostering a culture of care and growth within her team.

Leadership Philosophy: The Courage to Confront

When reflecting on her leadership journey, Ferhan shared, “The hardest leadership lesson I learned was that delaying a difficult conversation only makes things worse for all parties involved.” Early in her managerial career, she found herself hesitant to address performance issues directly. She preferred to delay those uncomfortable conversations, thinking it would spare everyone the discomfort.

But in reality, it only led to greater frustration for both the business and the individual. This lesson has profoundly impacted her approach to leadership today. Ferhan emphasizes the importance of timely and honest communication, understanding that addressing issues head-on fosters a healthier team dynamic and better outcomes.

Valuable Insights from Literature

When asked about the most impactful resource she has encountered, Ferhan highlighted Patrick Lencioni’s "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team."

“We read this book as a team ahead of a two-day workshop, and it was enlightening to go through the steps of evolution together,” she recalled. “It’s a book about fundamentals, and every time a team member changes, the dynamics recalibrate. I believe this book will always have a place in my library.” Ferhan appreciates how the book provides practical insights into team dynamics, making it an essential read for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills.

Lessons from Mentorship

Reflecting on her early career, Ferhan shared a pivotal moment with a mentor who shaped her understanding of integrity and decision-making. She was responsible for deciding where to build base stations in Istanbul, and a senior director wanted her to prioritize coverage near his home. Her manager advised her to trust her assessments and not be swayed by external pressures.

She told Ferhan, as long as you are doing the right thing and have the right intentions, you will be fine. This guidance instilled in Ferhan the importance of making decisions based on data and integrity, rather than succumbing to external noise. For her, doing the right thing, even when it’s difficult, brought her great satisfaction.

Team Dynamics and Legacy

When discussing her aspirations as a leader, Ferhan expressed her desire to be remembered as someone who “cares, empowers, and develops her team.” She believes that effective leadership goes beyond simply managing tasks; it involves creating an environment where team members feel valued and supported in their professional growth. Ferhan is committed to nurturing her team’s development by providing them with the resources, guidance, and encouragement they need to excel.

This dedication to fostering a culture of empowerment is a defining characteristic of her leadership style, reflecting her belief that when individuals are given the opportunity to thrive, the entire team benefits. By prioritizing the growth and well-being of her team, Ferhan aims to cultivate a collaborative atmosphere where everyone can contribute their best work and achieve collective success.

Balancing Work and Wellness

In today’s flexible work environment, Ferhan emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries. “Unless there’s an incident or something urgent, I do not connect over the weekend. Sunday evenings are my prep time for the week, and I make it clear to my team that I don’t expect anyone to be working at that time,” she explained. Ferhan believes that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for overall well-being and productivity. Ferhan Gunen’s journey from network planning engineer to a leader at Equinix reflects her dedication to fostering a culture of care, integrity, and empowerment.

Stay tuned for the next installment of "Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate, & Evolve" as we continue exploring stories of transformational leadership.

START YOUR EQUINIX JOURNEY!

Leaders at Equinix: Deon Montasser

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 21:33:05 +0000

Leading with purpose: A journey to empower Indonesia's digital transformation

Deon Montasser, newly appointed as Country Sales Director at Equinix, is poised to make a major impact on the digital infrastructure landscape, especially as Indonesia strives to grow its digital economy. With extensive experience from leading cloud and technology companies, Deon recognizes the importance of the data center's role as a digital hub and its interconnection with the world's digital ecosystem, such as Cloud Hyperscalers, Service Providers, Network Providers, and overseas business partners in order to drive competitive advantage and innovation in today's business world.

A strategic decision to join Equinix

Deon’s decision to join Equinix was influenced by the company’s unique position as the world’s leading digital infrastructure provider. He recognizes that data and AI have become critical drivers of change for organizations looking to innovate their digital business models. “Equinix plays a strategic and important role as the world’s digital infrastructure company. It enables organizations to implement hybrid multi-cloud interoperability with the largest ecosystem of digital partners, accessible on demand,” he stated.

In the context of Indonesia's rapidly growing digital economy, this strategic advantage is particularly significant. The country's digital landscape is evolving quickly, and Deon believes that Equinix’s capabilities can help local businesses thrive in this competitive environment.

When Deon learned about Equinix’s plans to open its first International Business Exchange (IBX) data center in Indonesia, he felt an immediate connection to the opportunity. “I knew I had to be part of Equinix’s momentum of growth in supporting Indonesia’s digital leaders in achieving sustainable competitive advantage,” he remarked. This decision reflects his commitment to helping Indonesian organizations at any phase of their digital transformation journey, through cost savings, data & AI innovations, and revenue growth-related innovations. It is also aligned with Indonesia's vision to become a digital powerhouse in Southeast Asia.

A pacesetting leadership style with Indonesian values

In his role, Deon embraces a pacesetting leadership style that emphasizes respect, empathy, and transparency—values that resonate deeply within Indonesian culture. He believes that this approach is particularly effective during times of uncertainty and continuous change.

“In my role as Country Sales Director at Equinix, I firmly believe that fostering open communication and effective collaboration is essential for our success. It also promotes a culture that truly values people. My focus on creating a supportive and collaborative environment is crucial as we navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapidly evolving digital landscape. I prioritize trust and mutual respect in my leadership philosophy, encouraging my team members to contribute their ideas and drive innovation. This approach aligns perfectly with the Indonesian ethos of gotong royong, or mutual cooperation, which is vital for fostering teamwork and community spirit,” he explained.

By embracing these values, he aims to cultivate a workplace culture where everyone feels empowered to share their perspectives and collaborate toward common goals. Together, the team can tackle the complexities of digital transformation and unlock new opportunities for success at Equinix.

An invitation to join the team

As Equinix prepares to expand its presence in Indonesia, Deon extends an invitation to individuals interested in joining his team. He emphasizes that this is a unique opportunity to be part of a world-class sales team that is poised to bring sustainable value to Indonesia’s digital economy.

“With the pace of digital transformation continuing to accelerate, Equinix is the only digital infrastructure platform that enables digital leaders to adopt true hybrid multicloud and edge computing solutions,” Deon stated. He encourages prospective team members to seize this rare opportunity to contribute to a company that is at the forefront of digital innovation, which aligns with Indonesia's ambitious goals for technological advancement. If you’re prepared to join a larger mission, take advantage of the chance to explore a career with Equinix Indonesia today.

Leaders at Equinix: Simon Lockington

Thu, 15 May 2025 19:00:00 +0000

Insights from a Transformational Leader: Strategies, Lessons, and Reflections

In the ever-evolving landscape of the tech industry, effective leadership is more crucial than ever. As organizations navigate rapid changes and increasing complexities, the need for transformational leaders who can inspire, empower, and guide their teams has never been more pronounced. In this edition of Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate & Evolve, we shine a spotlight on Simon Lockington, Senior Director, Global Technical Sales, a remarkable leader recently honored with the Transformational Leader Award of the Year for APAC at Connect, Equinix’s annual sales kick-off event. Join us as we delve into his reflections on effective management strategies, personal growth, and the importance of authentic leadership.

Effective Management Strategies

When discussing strategies for managing individuals and teams, Simon emphasized the importance of action over excessive planning. "When considering new initiatives, don’t spend too much time planning to excess," he advised. "You won’t know what you’ll encounter on the journey until you start. Try, fail, iterate. People will forgive a well-intended initiative that doesn’t work out; they won’t forgive inaction. During the award presentation at Connect, many of my successful achievements were highlighted. However, it's important to acknowledge that these successes were accompanied by many more initiatives that didn’t quite pan out."

Hardest Leadership Lessons

Reflecting on the hardest leadership lesson learned, he stated, "Never assume people are on the same page as you. Communicate and clarify." He acknowledged that while this may seem pedantic, effective communication significantly reduces misunderstandings and the associated pain. For those looking to transition into leadership roles, Simon’s number one piece of advice is simple yet profound: "Be authentic and open to asking for help and advice." This openness fosters a culture of collaboration and trust, essential for effective leadership.

Legacy as a Leader

When asked what he would like to be remembered for as a leader, the response was thoughtful. "I struggled a lot in answering this question, but I’d like to be remembered as someone who focused on execution. There are a lot of great ideas around; sometimes they just need a little help in coming to life." This focus on getting things done underscores the importance of tangible results in leadership.

Simon also reflected on the most valuable resources that have shaped his leadership journey. One standout was the book "Turn the Ship Around," which tells the story of a leader who transformed a low-performing team into the highest achievers among their peers. The key takeaway was the realization that team members often know the right course of action but may feel disempowered. By fostering a sense of ownership and accountability, the leader was able to unlock the team's potential.

Mentorship and Personal Growth

Discussing the impact of mentorship, Simon shared an important lesson learned from his mentors. "Numerous times in my career, I’ve landed in situations I had no business being in, with little to no clue how to address the task at hand. My mentors did a great job of coaching me in a way that I discovered solutions myself. This approach gave me the confidence to back myself."

Conclusion

Through his experiences and insights, we explore the strategies that have driven his success, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. His emphasis on action, communication, authenticity, and mentorship serves as a guiding light for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the tech industry and beyond.

If you are looking to make a real-world impact, come explore a role with Equinix.

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Leaders at Equinix: Bridget McFarlane

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 19:00:00 +0000

Leading with adaptability

In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environment, leaders face the dual challenge of driving results while prioritizing the wellbeing of their employees. With countless leadership books, podcasts and resources available on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which strategies truly make a difference. In this edition of Leaders at Equinix, we explore practical approaches that have proven effective for Bridget McFarlane, Senior Manager, Global Solutions Architecture & Engineering. Recently recognized with the Transformational Leader of the Year Award at Connect, Equinix’s annual sales kickoff event, Bridget offers insights into inspiring teams, fostering a positive workplace culture and maintaining personal motivation amid leadership challenges.

Fostering success through communication and trust

At the heart of Bridget’s approach is a fundamental belief: “What can I do to help my team be successful?” This mindset drives her commitment to honest and clear two-way communication. She prioritizes creating a safe space where team members feel comfortable being open and vulnerable. By encouraging an environment where individuals can celebrate wins, express challenges and provide feedback, she strives to foster a culture of trust and collaboration. She emphasizes the importance of listening to others: “I work hard to listen to their concerns without interrupting or trying to immediately provide answers and coaching.” As she puts it, “I find that coming to the answers together leads to buy-in more often.”

Adapting leadership approaches to individual needs

One of the hardest lessons Bridget has learned is that “not everyone on my team is like me or works in the same way that I do.” Recognizing that each team member has unique perspectives and motivations has been pivotal in shaping her leadership style. “I strive to meet each team member where they are, adapting my approach to suit individual needs,” she added. Her ongoing effort to understand different working styles helps her to become a better leader every day.

Bridget has this advice for those looking to transition into leadership roles: “Understand that it is your responsibility as a leader to tailor your approach to the needs of team members.”

A legacy of support and a no-blame culture

When reflecting on her legacy, Bridget hopes to be remembered as “someone who supported her team members, had their backs, and helped them to succeed in whatever they defined as success.” She elaborates, “A mentor once told me the importance of fostering a ‘no-blame’ culture. If something goes wrong, you don’t blame the person; you blame the problem.” By quickly pivoting to collaboration and solution-finding, teams can learn and grow from failures, leading to greater resilience and innovation.

Leadership resources

Bridget has found immense value throughout her journey in the Management Essentials training and the Situational Leadership II course provided to people managers at Equinix. “Both courses provided tangible methods for identifying where your team members stand in terms of will and skill on a given task,” she shares. “These courses helped me to lead with adaptability and precision—to effectively guide my teams toward successful outcomes.”

Effective prioritization techniques

Managing a busy schedule is a challenge that Bridget actively navigates. She adopts a strategy of setting weekly priorities: “At the beginning of each week, I establish my three ‘Big Rocks.’ These are my top three priorities that must be completed by the end of the week. I do the same at the start of most days, identifying three ‘Big Rocks’ for the day. This practice helps keep my priorities front and center. When new tasks arise, instead of immediately adding them to my plate, I evaluate them against my ‘Big Rocks’ and decide whether to schedule, decline or delegate them accordingly.” This method helps Bridget maintain focus within the chaos of daily tasks.

Additionally, she utilizes time blocks on her calendar, stating, “During this time, I try to turn off all notifications and avoid looking at new emails and chats. I focus on a specific task, usually one of my ‘Big Rocks’.”

She acknowledges that these methods don’t work every day. For instance, she often allows meetings to be scheduled during her focus time, or she finds herself checking emails and messages too frequently. However, she continues to work on improving her approach.

The essence of leadership

The journey of leadership is filled with lessons, challenges and growth opportunities. By prioritizing communication, understanding individual needs and fostering a supportive environment, Bridget demonstrates leadership qualities that inspire others on their journeys. Her insights remind aspiring leaders that effective leadership is about achieving goals and empowering others to reach their full potential.

At Equinix, great leadership is the cornerstone of innovation and success. If you’re passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a dynamic team that values growth, collaboration and excellence, we invite you to explore career opportunities with us.

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Leaders at Equinix: Saskia Boon

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 19:00:00 +0000

Rethinking targets: How leaders navigate change and empower teams

When leaders evolve, so do their teams. For seasoned sales leader Saskia Boon, the transition—from Senior Manager, Public Sector Sales, to Director, Field Sales—wasn’t a major shift in responsibilities. Instead, it was a sharpening of focus and a deepening of impact. Saskia Boon discusses her experience in this latest edition of Leaders at Equinix.

Saskia began her career as a sales representative with a Dutch telecommunications provider in 1996 before joining Equinix in 1998 as a sales manager for the public sector & healthcare in the Netherlands. She was promoted to Director, Field Sales, in 2025. “My role didn’t change substantially,” she shares, “but I now have even more focus on our priorities: aligning sales strategies for the public sector with organizational goals, driving long-term growth and fostering cross-functional collaboration. We remain committed to expanding our ecosystem and supporting public sector organizations in becoming digitally connected and citizen-centric.”

For Saskia’s team, it’s no longer about simply hitting quarterly targets or closing the next big deal. Novel trends and pioneering technologies are reshaping the market, presenting new challenges and opportunities at every turn. In a constantly evolving space, leaders must adapt internally to match this external speed, boosting scalable growth, aligning with enterprise strategy and empowering teams to thrive and outperform expectations.

The power of one-on-one conversations

Saskia describes her leadership style as a balance of support and strategy: “I focus on helping my team grow personally and professionally while staying aligned with the bigger picture.” This approach ensures her team not only hits targets but also develops the skills and confidence to take on what’s next.

One of Saskia’s most effective leadership tools is surprisingly simple: consistent one-on-one conversations. “These chats are where we talk about growth, wellbeing and progress. They help clarify goals, and, just as importantly, they build trust.”

A culture of support starts at the top

For Saskia, leadership goes beyond the numbers. She makes wellbeing a regular part of the conversation: “I check in often, not just about work but about life. I also make sure my team has access to the right resources and opportunities, both inside and outside the company.”

It’s a reminder of a core leadership truth: People do their best work when they feel heard, supported and connected to a shared purpose.

Saskia credits her growth to Equinix’s culture. “At Equinix, we focus on championing inclusivity, emphasizing continuous feedback and reducing bias in performance reviews. It’s a culture that values fairness and that makes me feel empowered.”

Advice for aspiring leaders: Be transformational

For those looking to step into leadership, Saskia keeps it simple. “Focus on being a transformational leader,” she says. “For me, this means leading with intention and impact. It’s about building agility and being able to pivot quickly in a fast-changing market. It’s about fostering collaboration, because no one wins alone in tech sales. And it’s about leading with inclusivity, making sure every voice is heard and every team member feels valued. Above all, it’s about staying curious. Never stop learning.”

In today’s fast-moving sales environment, the best leaders are always evolving—just like the teams and markets they serve. Looking back, one piece of advice from a mentor still guides her today: “Always adapt to challenges—but don’t lose sight of the vision.”

Saskia’s journey is a powerful example of what modern sales leadership looks like: strategic, people-first and always evolving. If you thrive in a culture that values collaboration and continuous learning, we’d love to meet you. Explore opportunities with our Sales team.

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Leaders at Equinix: Aga Davis

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 20:00:00 +0000

The power of being yourself

In this edition of Leaders at Equinix, we spotlight London-based Aga Davis, Director, Network Sales. For Aga, leadership is rooted in authenticity. As she leads a high-performing team in the tech industry, Aga believes that staying grounded, people-first and true to oneself is what truly sets great leaders apart.

From managing to leading: A strategic shift

Aga’s transition from Senior Manager to Director marked a pivotal shift in her leadership journey. While her core responsibility of leading a team remained, the role demanded a broader, more strategic perspective.

“The experience I gained as a manager helped me become a more strategic and effective leader. I’ve learned to inspire, guide and empower my team to achieve collective success.”

A people-centric strategy that drives results

One of Aga’s most effective leadership strategies has been fostering a people-centric approach. She emphasizes the importance of listening deeply and adapting her leadership style to suit individual team members.

“By actively listening to my team and understanding what leadership style works best for each individual, I create an environment where they feel supported and empowered.”

This balance of autonomy and support has consistently driven engagement, accountability and professional growth. These qualities are essential in high-performing sales teams.

Aga describes her leadership style as rooted in honesty, loyalty and a strong focus on results. She believes in open communication and mutual respect, creating a culture where people feel valued and motivated.

“At the same time, I keep the team focused on achieving goals and delivering results.”

Support that goes beyond the job

Aga is intentional about backing her team, not only as professionals but also as individuals.

“I pay attention to both professional and personal needs. By understanding what’s going on in their lives, I can offer meaningful support and help them maintain a healthy work-life balance.”

This human-first approach builds loyalty and resilience, two traits that are invaluable in high-pressure roles.

Empowered by culture and leadership

Aga credits her own success to a culture of trust and a manager who empowered her to lead authentically. “My leader gave me the space to be myself and trusted my judgment. That trust empowered me to lead authentically.”

This reflects a broader organizational culture where individuals are encouraged to show up as their true selves—an atmosphere that fuels innovation, collaboration and long-term success.

Mentorship that leaves a mark

One of Aga’s most impactful lessons came from a mentor who encouraged her to celebrate her wins, even in difficult times.

“They told me to create an ‘AGA’ folder—‘Achievements, Gratitude and Appreciation.’ It’s where I save positive feedback, promotions and wins. On tough days, it reminds me of the impact I’ve made.”

It’s a simple yet powerful practice, especially for sales professionals who face constant targets and pressure.

Advice for aspiring leaders

Aga believes this essential mindset marks the first step toward leadership: “Embrace confidence in your ability to lead and support others. Leadership is as much about self-assurance as it is about uplifting those you lead.”

“Be yourself! Everyone else is taken.”

For Aga, this quote isn’t just a clever line, it’s a guiding principle. In leadership, in sales and in life, authenticity is a superpower. It’s what allows individuals to bring their unique perspectives, talents and personalities to the workplace. These are features no one else can replicate.

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Leaders at Equinix: Janie Rashad

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 20:00:00 +0000

Inside sales leadership at Equinix: How Janie Rashad builds impactful teams

Sales leadership is often misunderstood. One might assume it’s all about driving numbers, managing performance and staying on top of deals. In this edition of Leaders at Equinix, Janie Rashad, Director, Mid-Market Sales, shares what leadership really looks like and clears up some common misconceptions.

Misconception 1: Leadership is about control

Janie’s transition from Senior Manager to Director came with broader responsibilities, including leading a global team. But the core of her role remained consistent: guiding sales reps through the daily rhythm of the sales process.

Does leadership mean having all the answers or controlling every move? For Janie, empowerment trumps control. “I am a very hands-on leader,” she shares. “I believe in empowering my team to think for themselves and problem-solve with guidance along the way. I don’t believe in micro-managing, but I am always right there to help.”

Her top advice for aspiring leaders? Lead by example. Set clear expectations. Recognize effort. Coach consistently.

Misconception 2: Leadership means managing everyone in the same way

In the fast-paced and high-pressure sales environment, it can be tempting for leaders to default to a one-size-fits-all leadership style. Janie’s approach is the opposite. She leads with empathy and flexibility.

“I manage people as individuals, not as a collective whole. It’s important to understand that everyone has their own strengths, personality and pace. You can’t lead effectively with a one-size-fits-all mindset.”

When managing a team, Janie also emphasizes the importance of fostering cohesion, encouraging idea sharing and promoting equality. She credits Equinix for providing the vision, direction and leadership that enable her success.

Her leadership style is also shaped by one of her most impactful mentors, someone who taught her the value of resilience and adaptability. “She taught me to stay the course during tough times and always look for better solutions,” Janie reflects. That lesson continues to influence how she supports her team: by guiding them through challenges, advocating for their success and helping them grow both professionally and personally.

Misconception 3: Culture doesn’t impact sales performance

At Equinix, culture is a competitive advantage. We place a strong emphasis on inclusion and belonging with our Belonging for All culture, which plays a key role in leadership success.

“Equinix allows me to bring my authentic self to work every day,” Janie states. “It fosters a culture where thoughts, suggestions and ideas are always encouraged. The company creates a true sense of community and belonging. I feel trusted, supported and empowered to share ideas. My manager gives me the autonomy to do my job in a way that reinforces that trust and support.”

Janie also prioritizes supporting her team beyond the office—engaging in conversations about personal interests, offering empathy and advocating for their success.

“I treat my direct reports with respect and see them as people first, not just as employees,” she shares. We talk about our families, interests and personal lives in addition to business. I’m empathetic to personal situations and offer support when needed both professionally and personally. I also advocate on their behalf and fully support their sales process every step of the way.”

Real impact, real growth

Janie and her team drive revenue, retain customers and contribute to Equinix’s global success. But they also give back by participating in Equinix Impact events and building community.

“It’s not just about sales,” Janie emphasizes. “It’s about making a difference for our customers, our company and each other.”
If you’re ready to lead with purpose, grow your career and be part of a culture that values people first, Equinix is the place to do it.

“It’s the best company I’ve ever worked for,” Janie says. “If you’re ready to make a real impact—this is your moment.”

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Leaders at Equinix: Stefan Diedericks

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 21:46:19 +0000

Letting go to grow: Redefining leadership in the partner ecosystem

“Leadership isn’t about being in the room for every deal—it’s about enabling and empowering others to thrive when we’re not.”

In this latest Leaders at Equinix spotlight, we speak with Stefan Diedericks, Vice President, EMEA Partner Ecosystem. Stefan shares his perspective on how the roles of alliance and channel teams are evolving and why that evolution is critical to scaling partner-led growth.

Understanding the ecosystem: Alliance, partner and channel teams

At Equinix, we recognize that building a thriving partner ecosystem requires a diverse set of management functions, each with a unique focus and impact.

Alliance teams are the architects of strategic, long-term relationships with major cloud giants and technology leaders. Think hyperscalers, global systems integrators and software vendors. Their work centers on co-innovation, joint go-to-market strategies and executive alignment. Stefan states: “Alliance roles are about building the blueprint. They’re the ones shaping the future with our most strategic collaborators.”

Partner teams focus on enabling and nurturing a broad ecosystem of collaborators such as resellers, integrators and niche solution providers. Their role is to ensure partners are equipped with the tools, training and support they need to succeed. “Partner teams are the glue,” says Stefan. “They turn strategy into action by empowering others to deliver.”

Simultaneously, partner teams are the execution engines of the ecosystem. They drive indirect sales through resellers, distributors and managed service providers, ensuring that programs, incentives and enablement translate into measurable results. As Stefan emphasizes, “Channel teams are our force multipliers. They scale our reach and impact by enabling performance at the edge.”

Working together with Sales, these roles form one powerful, united team in front of our customers, enabling Equinix to deliver value through a robust and resilient partner ecosystem.

From control to orchestration

In today’s complex partner landscape, the place of alliance and channel teams continues to evolve. Success is no longer defined by proximity to every transaction. Instead, it’s about designing systems that empower others to lead. Stefan explains: “We’re not here to control—we’re here to orchestrate. We’re not here to chase every deal—we’re here to build frameworks that scale. We’re not here to grow through force—we grow by building confidence, capability and clarity across our partner ecosystem.”

Shifting the metrics of success

Stefan outlines several key shifts that partner leaders must embrace to stay ahead.

“To truly scale, the industry must embrace a mindset shift:

From deal chasers to partner ecosystem architects
From requiring personal presence to enabling performance at the edge
From measuring bookings to measuring partner impact

From simply doing more to empowering others to do more
In short, we must let go to grow. That’s how we unlock scalable, repeatable growth.”

Be at the center of digital transformation

Whether it’s enabling AI workloads in our high-performance data centers or building frameworks that empower our partners, we’re committed to creating impact at scale. “It’s not about being indispensable; it’s about making others capable,” Stefan notes. “When we let go, we create space for others to lead. And that’s when real growth happens.”

At Equinix, we’re proud to be at the center of this transformation, enabling scalable, repeatable, partner-led growth that powers the digital world. If you’re passionate about building ecosystems, empowering others and driving meaningful impact at scale, Equinix is hiring. Join a global channel sales team that’s shaping the future of digital infrastructure, where you can lead, grow and truly stand at the forefront of everything.

Leaders at Equinix: Empower, Elevate, and Evolve.

Leaders at Equinix: Avigail Kalish

Leading the Way

Challenge Assumptions

The Value of Mentorship

Global Leaders

Leaders at Equinix: Carol Wang

Unleashing Sales Success

Resilience and Adaptability

Network of Mentors

Team Development

Leaders at Equinix: Grace Khor

Leading Through Change

Valuable Resources

The Power of Listening

Legacy as a Leader

Work and Wellness

Leaders at Equinix: Jac Matthews

Leading Through Listening

Valuable Resources

Learnings from an Impactful Mentor

Legacy as a Leader

Leaders at Equinix: Peng Yuan Lee

Making an Impact

A Captivating Journey

Collaborative and Inclusive Culture

Leadership Style

Leaders at Equinix: Swapnil Pathare

Elevating Communication & Influencing Change

Zooming In and Out

How the Team Describes Swapnil

Wellbeing: Balancing Work and Rest

Leaders at Equinix: Tiffany Osias

Scaling Impact

Legacy as a Leader

Integrating Work and Life

Prioritizing Wellness

Leaders at Equinix: Yuko Aoyagi

Meet Yuko Aoyagi

Inspiration & Courage

The Importance of Humanity & Diversity

"It's all about human connections"

Leaders at Equinix: Ryan Khalessi

Empowering Transformation Through Leadership: Insights from Ryan Khalessi

Leadership Philosophy: Uplifting Others

Navigating Pitfalls with Resilience

Lessons in Leadership

Integrity as a Cornerstone

Balancing Work and Wellness

Leaders at Equinix: Ferhan Gunen

Leadership Philosophy: The Courage to Confront

Valuable Insights from Literature

Lessons from Mentorship

Team Dynamics and Legacy

Balancing Work and Wellness

Leaders at Equinix: Deon Montasser

Leading with purpose: A journey to empower Indonesia's digital transformation

A strategic decision to join Equinix

A pacesetting leadership style with Indonesian values

An invitation to join the team

Leaders at Equinix: Simon Lockington

Insights from a Transformational Leader: Strategies, Lessons, and Reflections

Effective Management Strategies

Hardest Leadership Lessons

Legacy as a Leader

Mentorship and Personal Growth

Conclusion

Leaders at Equinix: Bridget McFarlane

Leading with adaptability

Fostering success through communication and trust

Adapting leadership approaches to individual needs

A legacy of support and a no-blame culture

Leadership resources

Effective prioritization techniques

The essence of leadership

Leaders at Equinix: Saskia Boon

Rethinking targets: How leaders navigate change and empower teams

The power of one-on-one conversations

A culture of support starts at the top

Advice for aspiring leaders: Be transformational

The Importance
of Humanity & Diversity