Vera Stoeva
Chief Operating Officer
SOCMA
Vera Stoeva, Chief Operating Officer at SOCMA, has built an impressive career that spans continents and industries. Originally from Bulgaria, Vera's journey to becoming a top executive in the chemical industry is a testament to her resilience, adaptability, and dedication. With a background in finance, she has held various roles across different sectors, ultimately joining SOCMA in 2019. Since then, she has transitioned from a Senior Vice President role to her current position as COO, where she continues to make a significant impact, both within the organization and in advocating for women and minorities in the workplace.
A Journey from Bulgaria to the COO Role: Born and raised in Bulgaria during the communist era, she grew up in a society where traditional gender roles were the norm. However, her mother, a finance graduate, defied these conventions and instilled in her a sense of independence and ambition. Although she initially dreamed of becoming a fighter pilot, her mother guided her towards a finance career, eventually leading her to immigrate to the United States at 21. Moving to a new country alone and without knowing English, she was driven by a desire to explore the world and seize new opportunities.
Courage and Advocacy in Personal and Professional Life: Her courage continued to shine as she navigated her personal and professional life. After joining SOCMA in 2019, she transitioned from a project management role to a strategic leadership position, emphasizing the importance of compassion and empathy in fostering a supportive work environment. This experience inspired her to advocate for others, particularly in raising awareness about mental health and self-care and pushing for improved parental support policies in the workplace.
Networking and Leadership Development: Initially, she underestimated the power of networking, but she soon realized its critical role in career development. She learned the value of vulnerability, mentorship, and the importance of creative problem-solving. Her leadership approach now focuses on sharing her experiences, learning from mistakes, and guiding others toward their own success.
Balancing Career and Personal Life: Balancing a demanding career with personal life has been a continuous challenge. She highlights the importance of time management and self-care, prioritizing protecting her personal time for activities that recharge her, such as working out. Additionally, she advocates for the needs of others by using her experiences to promote opportunities and support within her organization.
Words of Wisdom for the Women in Chemical Community: Follow your dreams, celebrate your achievements, and always seek solutions. Every problem has a solution, and experience remains the most valuable teacher. The path to success is paved with continuous learning, resilience, and perseverance.
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