Christine Gilroy recently joined Equinix as Senior Vice President, Digital Sales Specialist. Her extensive experience helping companies transform their digital strategy, combined with her passion for taking a ‘customer-first’ approach, will prove invaluable as we look to accelerate our digital services offerings and further deliver on our platform strategy. 

We are excited to spotlight Christine so you can learn more about what great customer experience means to her, what she’s most excited about in this new role, what advice she would give women who aspire to be leaders and more.  

Q: You’ve held senior positions at global technology companies and several cloud and data-driven startups. Please share insights into your experience and what you’ve learned?  

I’ve always approached life with an eagerness to learn, knowing each day brings new lessons. Over the years, my experiences across various organizations have emphasized one undeniable truth: it is important to embrace unpredictability. For example, startups exude a unique vibrancy, characterized by enthusiasm, agility, and an innate ability to cater directly to the customer's immediate needs. On the other hand, established enterprises boast a remarkable framework, stability, and a far-reaching presence. Whether you are in a start-up or an established company, merging fervor with stability creates a synergy that truly meets the customer’s needs. That’s where the magic happens.|

Q: Let’s talk more specifically about your experience helping companies transform their digital strategy. What are some lessons you’ve learned along the way and how will you apply that knowledge in your new role? 

Transformation hinges on agility and a growth mindset. This means traditional customer interaction methods don't hold; however, desired outcomes remain constant, and success lies in crafting customer journeys centered on these outcomes. Equally important, while change is inevitable, not every shift is beneficial. The key is strategic patience and commitment. Even if a course-correction is needed, staying aligned with our core mission is crucial. Identifying this mission and its value to our customers is paramount. I'll apply these insights by first understanding our customer and their journey. And most important, the team and I will work together to lay a foundation to scale the business, always keeping the customer at the core. 

Q: At Equinix, we put the customer at the center of everything we do. What does this mean to you and what would you say are the most important parts of creating a great customer experience? 

I'm deeply passionate about a "customer-first" approach. This philosophy centers on guiding customers to their goals and understanding their motivations. It's vital to know how customers use our solutions, and equally important, how our solutions can help them serve their clients and markets. Let me share a simple, yet important, question to ensure you have a customer-centric team. Always ask question: "WHY?" If we genuinely prioritize our customers, we should always understand their "why" and structure our support around it, extending beyond just the sale.
 

Q: You’ve joined Equinix as SVP, Digital Sales Specialist, a new position leading strategy and sales for our Digital Services team and helping customers with their cloud journey. What excites you most about this position? 

I am beyond excited about the opportunity to work with amazing teams across the company to shape our Go-to-Market strategy for Digital Services. This role allows me to be at the forefront of understanding our customers’ needs, ensure we offer them the best solution, and meet them where they are in their cloud journey. As the landscape shifts with artificial intelligence (AI) and data security concerns, I'm eager to harness our team's potential and address evolving customer needs. With our customer-first approach, unparalleled global reach, and leading digital offerings, we're uniquely positioned to succeed. I'm ready to collaborate cross-functionally, drive growth and meet the challenges ahead.
 

Q: There are several technologies impacting sales and the way companies do business. How do you stay current with those trends and developments? 

In the early stages of my career, I worked with sales effectiveness solutions, and I've always been fascinated by how technology can enhance our customer experience capabilities. I actively collaborate with startups and other sales solution providers to design tools that cater not just to management, but genuinely support sellers who service customers on the ground. I stay updated by reading, following industry blogs and pursuing certifications for emerging solutions. I firmly believe technology should facilitate sellers to spend more time with customers rather than act as a hindrance. Our tools should simplify and amplify, not complicate.
 

Q: What, or who, has motivated or inspired you throughout your career? 

Early in my career, Safra Catz left a profound impact on me. Observing a formidable female CEO lead Oracle with such efficiency and strength was awe-inspiring. Beyond her business acumen, Safra was deeply connected with her team, taking time to understand each member... a testament to her belief in the invaluable role every employee played in Oracle's success. I've also drawn inspiration from John McMahon, the renowned sales executive from PTC, and Lisa McLeod, the author of "Noble Selling." McLeod's philosophy, "do we leave the customer better than we found them?" resonates deeply with me. At the heart of it all, my motivation stems from a genuine desire to uplift others to reach their peak potential. Having seen my parents dedicate their lives to assisting others, I am driven not only to emulate their spirit but also to honor them and the sacrifices they've made for me. 
 

Q: What advice would you give to other women who aspire to become leaders? 

First, believe in yourself. Trust in your capabilities and value… your unique perspective and experiences are assets that set you apart. Seek mentorship and engage with leaders who can guide you and, in turn, enable you to become a mentor for others. This cycle of guidance and giving back is powerful for growth. Remember to always stay authentic; lead with integrity; and stay true to your values, even when faced with challenges. Use your passion to influence others in a positive direction with or without the title of leader. Remember, true leadership is not just about authority, but the positive influence you bring to others.
 

Q: You have a passion for helping underprivileged youth. Tell me about your involvement in helping young men and women in Laos seek higher education. 

After a friend's journey to Laos, I became deeply involved in a charity supporting underprivileged youth there. Many are sent to monasteries or orphanages and face uncertain futures when they turn 18 years old. We provide funding and guidance for their college education, aiding with applications and offering virtual tutoring. It's been rewarding to see them thrive and contribute back to their communities. Closer to home, I assist youth in navigating education and employment opportunities. Ultimately, it's about offering time, guidance and genuine interest, not just financial support. I find it truly rewarding to see them thrive and know that they can lift others as they were lifted.
 

Q: If you had a time machine, would you go back in time or into the future? What time period would you travel to and why? 

I'd travel back to my childhood to relish the simple joys, like driving the "scenic routes" my dad loved. Back then, I was impatient and didn’t care where the random dirt road took us. The desert or mountains all looked the same. Now I see their value in teaching us to enjoy the journey. It was never the destination. My dad just wanted so spend time talking to us and teaching us things along the “dusty road.” While the future intrigues me, I aim to take life's lessons and truly live in each present moment. The mantra "seize the day" resonates, and I hope to always grasp the right opportunities. 

If you're interested to learn more about career opportunities on our Equinix Sales Team, check out our career site.