Michelle Minelli, CSM, CTFL, ITIL
Michelle Minelli, CSM, CTFL, ITIL, is the Founder and CEO of AdAstra Horizons Advisors, a women-led strategic advisory firm dedicated to helping organizations achieve operational excellence, strengthen leadership, and implement scalable program management solutions. With extensive experience in program and project management, risk assessment, and business continuity, Michelle partners with executives to align strategy with execution, driving transformation and measurable business value across complex organizational environments.
Throughout her career, Michelle has held senior leadership roles across prominent organizations, including Broadridge Financial Solutions, AXA US, and JPMorgan Chase & Co., where she led cross-functional teams, optimized operational processes, and implemented robust governance frameworks. Her expertise spans strategic program management, quality assurance, operational resilience, and executive coaching, enabling her to guide enterprises through change while cultivating future-ready leaders.
Michelle holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) in Business Computer Information Systems from Hofstra University and has completed executive education programs at Yale University and Yale School of Management, focusing on leadership and decision-making. She is a certified Scrum Master, Certified Tester Foundation Level (ISTQB/ASTQB), and ITIL Foundation professional. Passionate about mentoring and empowering leaders, Michelle actively participates in professional organizations including SCWBEC, the Farmingdale Small Business Development Center, Scrum Alliance, and Women In Technology – Long Island.
• Scrum Master
• Certified Tester
• Service Management, Foundation Level (ITIL)
• Hofstra University – Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.), Business Computer Information Systems
• Yale University – Leading Executive Decision Making (Executive Education)
• Yale School of Management – Leading Effective Decision Making (Executive Education)
• SCWBEC (Society of Women Business Owners / Certified Women’s Business Enterprise)
• Scrum Alliance
• Farmingdale Small Business Development Center
• Women In Technology – Long Island
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the example set by my parents. Watching how they lived their lives, the sacrifices they made to provide for my brothers and me, and their unwavering work ethic and desire to help others created a strong foundation for my growth. Their influence instilled in me resilience, determination, and the importance of giving back, which continue to guide me in both my professional and personal life.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
“Don’t be afraid to take a chance. You don’t have to know everything on day one, and learning is a lifelong journey. Be open to pivoting when needed. Even if you think you’re in the best role, explore opportunities and be willing to take a different route if it aligns with your growth.” This advice has reminded me to embrace change and take ownership of my career trajectory.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to take their seat at the table. You are invited because you belong, so engage fully, share your ideas, and contribute confidently. Be open to learning, pivot when necessary, and recognize that every experience is an opportunity to grow. Leadership is cultivated over time, and being proactive and intentional in your career will make a significant difference.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Building organizations that deliver operational excellence while fostering resilience and strategic alignment is both a challenge and an opportunity. Guiding executives through transformation initiatives, developing future-ready leaders, and implementing scalable PMO and risk frameworks requires a balance of technical expertise, facilitation, and adaptability. Additionally, there is a growing opportunity to expand leadership development programs and provide strategic advisory support to both enterprises and educational institutions.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, resilience, and a commitment to empowering others are central to my work and personal life. I strive to lead with empathy, foster growth in those around me, and align my actions with a purpose-driven mission. My family—my husband and daughter—serve as a constant source of inspiration and support, and I aim to carry those same principles into my professional endeavors, helping others realize their potential.