Marco: “A dual challenge: investing in new technologies and in growing our young talent”

Marco Ballabio is the ICT operations manager at the Milan office

Tell us about your career path

I was born in Monza and graduated from high school with an IT programmer diploma. I then dived straight into the working world and, next thing I knew, ten years in consultancy had flown by! I started out in the retail sector in Italy and Europe, but after a while I felt a need for greater stability in my day-to-day life.

And I found exactly what I was looking for at BonelliErede! I joined as an IT specialist in 2016 and, after a few role changes, was promoted to ICT operations manager in 2021. I’m now responsible for our IT infrastructure and operations and also manage a team of around 15 people.

What makes me stay at BonelliErede is the firm’s mission to invest in its people, as it allows me to put myself to the test in a tight-knit work environment. BonelliErede always has its sights set on new technologies and innovative solutions, and that means my team can keep up with the ever-changing market: at BonelliErede you never stop learning!

How do you contribute to your team’s growth?

I love training my team and helping them map out their professional development, especially when they’re starting out. It’s important to give them a chance to develop specific skills they didn’t have when they joined, set them challenging goals, and teach them how to manage projects and meet deadlines. I always try to lead by example and be a point of reference for the younger ones – something I’m rather proud of!

Other than technology, what are you passionate about?

When I’m not at work, I like to spend my time with my family. And having the option to work remotely means I’m able to have a better work-life balance and witness my daughter’s most precious and important ‘firsts’.

I also really like travelling and capturing memories through a camera lens – I photograph everything! My US trip is a big favourite: I drove through the southern states, from Louisiana to Mississippi, followed by Alabama and Florida. I fell in love with New Orleans in particular, and I was very struck by how friendly and welcoming Americans are. I can’t wait to go back with my daughter one day and share an on-the-road adventure with her.