Mariana is described as a trustworthy and credible partner who empowers her clients to reflect deeply, collaborate on solutions, and experiment with integrating effective behaviors that leverage their business and leadership insights.
Mariana prides herself on being a culture-minded coach & strategist who applies her deep values of relationship building and knowledge of adult learning to develop dynamic solutions that elevate the talents of all employees. Her approach incorporates 20+ years’ experience leading corporate learning and talent development, coaching and upskilling leaders and teams across various industries including edtech, media/entertainment, healthcare, food & beverage, luxury goods, and more.
Her coaching style is warm and intentional, leveraging tenets of Mezirow’s Transformative Learning Theory to inspire introspection, meaning-making, and a commitment to growth. Mariana holds an MA in Adult Learning and is certified in over ten methodologies, including the Leadership Potential Assessment (Korn Ferry) and Predictive Index, which she’s used continuously throughout her career to help leaders affect behavioral change.
In 2024, Mariana received her ACC credential from the International Coaching Federation, and was certified in trauma-informed coaching. Her chapter on “Promoting Creativity and Innovation Through Human-Centered Leadership” was published in the book Brilliant Leadership from Routledge Press.
Coaching Highlights
Mariana has coached leaders at every level from start-ups, non-profits, and Fortune 100 companies. She developed her insights from helping independent, mid-size, and large global organizations strategize their employee development and secure a robust succession pipeline.
Work Experience
Founding Partner, Cultural Compass Coaching & Consulting
Vice President of Talent Development (1,500 employees), Amplify Education
Director, Learning and Organizational Development, North America (2800 employees), Sony Music Entertainment
Global Director of Learning and Development (4000 employees), Godiva Chocolatier
Director, Corporate Learning and Development (5000 employees), Ralph Lauren
Certifications and Education
Certified Professional Coach, Institute for Coaching Innovation
Associate Certified Coach, International Coaching Federation
Certified Practitioner, Leadership Potential Assessment (Korn Ferry)
Certified Practitioner, Predictive Index assessment
Master of Arts in Adult Learning from SUNY Empire State University
Bachelor’s Degree in Cultural Studies from SUNY Empire State University