Sandra Fornasier
Autodesk’s customers are the change-makers of the world; they are the creative force behind so much of what is designed and made in the world today. As the Director of the Customer Insights and Success Experience team, I lead a group of talented and empathic individuals who endeavor to understand our customers’ changing needs and inspire the company to design a world-class experience that customers will truly value.
Our team of about 20 people – including Customer Insights Specialists, Action Management Program Managers, and Experience Designers – is spread across countries and time zones. Between us, we speak many languages and come from a multitude of educational backgrounds, cultures, and generations. We strive to be as diverse as our customer base.
Some of us are hybrid employees (including myself, based out of Montreal) while others are home-based, and we are all constant learners. For this reason, we find ways to get to know each other through team conversations on Slack, “Fun Friday” Zoom activities, and weekly get-to-know-you polls (with serious topics such as “How do you install your toilet paper – over or under?”). We also love to participate in company virtual and on-site events to get to know others in the company. We work hard, strive for inclusion, love to laugh, and are always there for each other with advice on work and life!
When I applied to work at Autodesk, I didn’t hear back for a few weeks. I was convinced I was the right candidate for the job – or at the very least, for Autodesk. I wanted a change in industries, a role that was more connected to customers, and to work for a company that was making bold, strategic changes. I was willing to take a step down to get my foot in the door. I looked at my LinkedIn network and realized I had a connection from a previous role 15 years back, who now works at Autodesk. I spoke to him, and he was excited about my interest in the company and encouraged the hiring manager to speak with me. She quickly realized I would be a great fit for Autodesk but at a more senior level in the company, so together with her director, she found me the right role in their organization.
My favorite things about working at Autodesk are the openness to new ideas, the speed of innovation, and the encouragement to always look for better ways of doing things. I was also surprised to see just how sincere the company’s investment is in driving more diversity and inclusion.
If you’re interested in a career with Autodesk, my advice would be to apply even if you think you’re not 100% qualified for the role. Be bold, know your value, and work your network. Be prepared and do your research on what you can bring to the table that others may not. Nothing is more powerful than being open, honest, and vulnerable, because hiring managers want to hire well-rounded people. Lastly, be sure to ask a lot of questions, because the hiring manager wants you to make the right decision for yourself as well.
Ready to shape the world and your future? Join us at Autodesk!
