Her Story
About Melissa
Melissa Angelista serves as a senior executive assistant in biotechnology, a role she has held for nearly 10 years. She supports two executives, the Chief Technology Officer and the Executive Vice President of Strategy, Product, and UX Design, while working closely with an R&D team of approximately 600 and a strategy and product team of about 75 in the diabetes space. Prior to pivoting to biotech almost three years ago, Angelista spent over 15 years in finance, including roles in retirement services, annuities, and individual life insurance. She earned her Series 6 license and worked at a firm with a 125-year history after a six-year effort to join. Angelista graduated from Penn State with a degree in psychology. She values authenticity, transparency, and psychological safety in both her professional and personal life. Angelista attributes her success to her perseverance and her intuition with people. She also runs the San Diego 40s and San Diego 50s Facebook groups to foster community connections.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Melissa
01What do you attribute your success to?
Perseverance is key, as I am probably the most perseverant person on the planet. My intuition with people is also a major factor in my success.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be bold, be strong, and ask questions. Don't be afraid of the unknown, take the leap of faith, and be the variation of the person that you would like to see.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Authenticity, transparency, and psychological safety are really important to me, both in business and personally.
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