Continuing our 'In the Seat' series, where we are talking to and getting insight into some of the incredible people working here and driving Mirus forward. From Commercial, Certification, Product Design, Quality and Engineering we are lucky to call some of the most experienced and talented people in the industry our colleagues.
Next up in the series we are talking to our Senior Sales Manager, Rosalia Piazza.
Tell us about your role as Senior Sales Manager at Mirus…
As Senior Sales Manager at Mirus, my role is both dynamic and fulfilling, involving strategic planning, team leadership, and client engagement.
One of my primary responsibilities is developing and implementing sales strategies that align with Mirus’s goals and vision. This involves staying ahead of market trends, competitor activities and prospective opportunities to keep our strategies relevant and competitive.
Building strong relationships with potential and existing clients to understand their needs and presenting tailored solutions is key, and by maintaining lasting relationships with our clients, we also contribute to their success stories.
Effective collaboration with other departments is paramount. Working closely with the marketing team to align sales campaigns with innovative initiatives maximizes our outreach. Additionally, providing feedback to the product development team, based on client needs and market demands ensures our products evolve to be best in their class.
The sales landscape is ever-evolving, and staying ahead requires a commitment to continuous improvement and new ideas. By driving innovation and fostering a client-centric approach, we strive to be industry leaders and trusted partners.
Being a Senior Sales Manager at Mirus is more than just a job; it’s about being part of a forward-thinking team that values excellence, collaboration, and growth.
You have a wealth of experience in sales, tell us about this and how your journey led to Mirus…
Looking back on my career in sales, I see a journey marked by growth, learning, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Each step has been a learning experience that has shaped my professional values and led me to where I am today – a proud member of the Mirus team.
In 2011, I moved to the UK, and in 2013, my career took a pivotal turn when I began as a Sales Executive at AJW Group in the aerospace industry. I vividly remember my first interview—I had no prior knowledge of aerospace. They needed someone dynamic with a willingness to learn customer service. Fast forward two years, and I had become the top salesperson in the ADOC team, despite still not fully grasping the intricacies of our products. It wasn’t just about selling consumables or rotables; it was about the people! I thrived on building relationships, quickly finding solutions for clients, and staying sharp on calls. My passion for customer interaction and problem-solving became the cornerstone of my success.
Driven by a desire for growth and new challenges, I was approached by agencies with offers from various companies. One opportunity was with STG Aerospace, a leader in Cabin Interior Solutions. Despite lacking an engineering background, I embraced the challenge and delivered results. Over nearly seven years, I consistently exceeded my sales targets, thanks to my ability to build and maintain a rapport with clients.
During my tenure at STG Aerospace, Marcus Williams, my Director, was a significant influence on my career. When Marcus moved to Mirus, he invited me to join him and build a new sales team. With Mirus’s innovative approach, dynamic culture, and commitment to excellence…I eagerly accepted.
At Mirus, I’ve utilized my extensive sales background to contribute to our ambitious goals and vision. The collaborative spirit here is inspiring, and I enjoy being surrounded by colleagues who share a passion for making a difference. We’re not just selling products; we’re cultivating lasting relationships and delivering exceptional value to our clients.
As I continue my journey with Mirus, I’m excited about the future and presenting new opportunities for learning, growth, and innovation. My commitment to excellence remains steadfast, and I’m dedicated to driving success for both myself and the entire Mirus team.
You’ve worked in aircraft interiors for more than a decade – what is the biggest change that you’ve seen in the industry within that time?
Over the past decade, aircraft interiors have seen a big transformation, driven by a passenger-centric focus in design, technological innovation, and sustainability. Modern cabins now feature advanced technologies and eco-friendly materials, reflecting a significant shift towards both comfort and environmental responsibility.
Technological advancements have greatly enhanced the passenger experience. Sophisticated lighting systems that mimic natural daylight, state-of-the-art noise-canceling features, and ergonomically designed seating are becoming standard. These improvements are aimed at creating a more comfortable and relaxing atmosphere for passengers.
In parallel, there has been a strong move towards sustainability in aircraft interiors. The industry is increasingly incorporating recycled plastics and sustainable textiles, and making efforts to reduce the weight of cabin components, which contributes to lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions.
These developments highlight a broader industry trend towards improving passenger experience while addressing environmental concerns. As technology continues to evolve and passenger expectations shift, it will be fascinating to see how aircraft interiors further adapt and enhance the flying experience in the future.
Born and raised in Italy, what brought you to the UK?
I was born in Sicily, but my real adventure began at 13 when my family moved to Spain. My mother opened a restaurant, and I completed my college education there, learning Spanish along the way. Despite Spain’s vibrant life, I felt a pull back to Italy after finishing my studies.
Returning to Italy in my twenties, I found myself at a crossroads. With a degree in Human Sciences but working as a waitress, Sicily seemed too small for my ambitions. So, I moved to Rome in search of new opportunities.
However, things didn’t improve as I had hoped. My salary barely covered my expenses, and I vividly remember a particularly tough moment when I had just £65 left in my bank account. Frustrated, I decided it was time for a significant change. I called my mum, announced my plans to move once again, and surprised her with the news that I had bought a one-way ticket to London.
Arriving in the UK with limited funds and boundless hope, I stayed with a family friend, sleeping on their floor for nearly a month. I quickly found a job as a waitress, which helped me support myself and improve my English.
Eventually, I moved to West Sussex and continued working in coffee shops to further my language skills. My perseverance paid off when I secured a position as a Sales Executive at AJW Group.
This journey taught me valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of pursuing your dreams. If you’re facing challenges or contemplating a big move, remember: the toughest moments often pave the way to the greatest rewards.
Tell us about some of the standout moments so far with Mirus…
One of the most exciting highlights was the launch of our flagship seat Kestrel. Its slimline design, sleek styling and forward thinking engineering created an ultra-light weight product, with unbeatable living space which has set a precedence in its class. With the overwhelmingly positive feedback from our customers I look forward to seeing the continued success of this innovative product.
Another significant highlight has been welcoming new talent to the Mirus team. Each new member brings fresh perspectives and skills, enhancing our ability to innovate and deliver exceptional results. I’m proud to be part of a diverse and dynamic team.
What do you love about your job at Mirus…
Every day at Mirus brings new challenges and exciting moments, and I’m grateful for the opportunities and experiences that come with it. The collaborative spirit within our talented and dedicated team brings camaraderie and support, which creates a workplace where everyone feels valued.
The impact of our work at Mirus is also incredibly rewarding. It’s fulfilling to know that what we do here not only drives Mirus forward but also makes a meaningful difference in our industry.
Lastly, Mirus understands the importance of work-life balance. The flexibility and support provided ensure that I can stay productive and happy both at work and at home.
Outside and alongside Mirus, what do you enjoy doing?
You’ll often find me immersed in studying new aspects of healing and personal development.
Currently, I’m focused on understanding and supporting those dealing with grief, a journey that’s deeply personal to me since losing my dad in 2018.
As a Reiki Master Teacher, I dedicate my time to practicing and teaching the art of Reiki healing. It’s a profound way to help others find balance and tranquility in their lives. Also, as a Certified Hypnotherapist, this allows me to guide people through transformative processes and help them unlock their inner potential.
My personal experience with loss has fueled my passion to support others in navigating their way through their own grief. I’m committed to providing support and healing to those who have lost loved ones, to help them find peace and solace.
My goal is to positively contribute to the well-being of those around me and support them on their life journey.
More than the destination — it’s about the journey.
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