Rosanna Miniaci, VP at Oscar de la Renta, NYC Resident, and Venezuelan-Italian Native  

Rosanna Miniaci is a tri-lingual, Pilates-loving person whose work combines fashion and catering to women who will probably view the gowns she offers as elegant, tulle-and-lace mementoes of one of the most important events in their lives: their wedding day. Her job?  Vice President of International Ready-to-Wear and Global Bridal Sales for Oscar de la Renta, in New York City.  She moved to that style hub when she was nineteen, after growing up in Venezuela, followed by a relocation to Italy, her parents’ home country, when she was thirteen. Fast-forward six years later, and she found herself in Manhattan, after graduating from language school in Italy — making her fluent in Spanish, Italian, and English.

In her pithy interview answers, she provides a rather touching, eloquent reply to the question, “What is the favorite part of your job?” by noting that it is “Being able to represent the vision of a designer whom I love and admire.”  Indeed, although he passed away last year, de la Renta’s style – which, unerringly, both flatters and emphasizes femininity, without being frilly – is of course perfect for the bridal gowns Miniaci deals with on a daily basis. More Miniaci facts: she is an early riser and gym enthusiast, a devotee of Jimmy Fallon’s Tonight show, and – despite the gym aspect! – of pancakes as well.  

Can you tell the readers a little bit about yourself?
I am Vice President of “International Ready to Wear & Global Bridal” for Oscar de la Renta, which is based in New York City.  I moved to NYC at age nineteen to follow the American Dream! 

What does a day in your shoes typically look like?
I wake up at 5:45 a.m. every day to work out at the gym – it gives me the energy to get through my day. My obsession right now is Pilates-reformer!

Then, once back from the gym, I respond to e-mails from overseas, and always check in for the latest fashion news updates. By 9 a.m., I’m at the office, and meet with all of my team to go over the agenda for the day.  Then it’s nonstop until the lights go out!

What are the first three things you do when you wake up in the morning, and the last three things you do before you go to bed? 
In the morning: Check emails, play music and have a cup of coffee.
The last 2 things at night: Check emails, and watch Jimmy Fallon!

What is your breakfast of choice?
Pancakes — a 1,000 times over!

What keeps you energized and motivated at work?
Have passion for life itself, and for the job you do.

What is the favorite part of your job?
Being able to represent the vision of a designer whom I love and admire. 

What and who inspires you at work?
My team, my boss, and a common goal.

Do you have a “Power Outfit” that you wear for a big meeting or important work event?
No – the “power outfit secret” is to feel confident in that moment!

What is your favorite leisure activity after a stressful work week?
A day at the spa. 

How does your culture/background influence your work?
Tremendously.  Growing up in different parts of the world gave me the understanding and knowledge to be able to work with all of the different cultures from around the world.   

What has been your biggest obstacle in your career and how did you overcome it?
Writing in English!  Italian and Spanish are so much easier to write in.  But the world communicates in English, so I talked less and wrote more! 

What are your most steadfast ‘don’ts’ rules regarding work and the workplace, and what are your most cherished ‘do’s’? 
To be always honest and direct – never be artificial!

What are the most important qualities of a good leader?
Teaching, being a good listener, and leading by example.

What are the unforgettable traits of role models who have inspired you most?
How they multitask — while keeping their eye on the ball.

How have mentors impacted your personal and professional development?
By showing us all that you never stop learning.

What are three questions you like to ask during an interview to know if the candidate (or job) is the right fit?
I ask a lot of “What would you do if…” type of questions, and about the level of contribution they made on their last job.

What advantages do you see as a woman in the workplace?
Providing an overwhelmingly positive light to every situation.

What advice would you give to women starting their careers?
Know what you want — and stay focused until you reach the goal!

What book would you recommend for women just starting their career?
Lean In, by Sheryl Sandberg.

What is your favorite quote you try and live by?
“Do the right thing.”