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Stephanie Tkach
Head of Career Services & Industry Partnerships | Senior CX Leader | Bridging Tech Expertise with a Mission for Change
Professional Background
Stephanie Santiago Tkach is a dynamic and accomplished leader in the tech industry, whose career trajectory beautifully showcases her remarkable adaptability and dedication to transformative practices. With a foundation in retail, Stephanie's rise to senior leadership roles at notable giants like Uber, Rivian, and Apple speaks volumes about her strategic vision and operational excellence.
At Uber, she played a pivotal role in shaping a positive workplace culture, managing a large team of over 150 driver support employees during a significant turnaround period. Her leadership during this transformative time not only enhanced overall employee morale but also brought forth operational improvements that benefited both drivers and the company as a whole.
Then, her journey took a formidable turn at Rivian, where she was essential in launching the world’s first all-electric pickup and SUV. In addition to this groundbreaking endeavor, Stephanie took charge of establishing vehicle service centers in the Northeast, further solidifying Rivian's presence in a competitive market. Her hands-on experience in these leadership roles has carved a niche for her in the tech and automotive industries, exemplifying her commitment to innovation and customer-centric service.
Education and Achievements
Stephanie's academic background is rooted in Marketing and Advertising, earned from the esteemed Pace University - Lubin School of Business. This educational foundation laid the groundwork for her business acumen and effective communication skills, which have been instrumental throughout her career. Additionally, she studied Business Administration and Management at Rockland Community College, further broadening her knowledge and expertise in corporate dynamics and operational management.
Her passion for inclusive hiring practices is demonstrated through her previous role as the Head of Career Services & Industry Partnerships at KindWork. Here, Stephanie established herself as a leading advocate for diversity in the tech hiring landscape. She strategically aligned KindWork’s mission with her own values, fostering a work environment that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, particularly those who have been historically marginalized.
Furthermore, her role on the Board of Directors for the Hostos Community College Foundation cannot go unmentioned. A Hispanic-serving institution, Hostos Community College plays a vital role in empowering its students, and Stephanie has been instrumental in fundraising over $400,000 for much-needed student scholarships. This contribution not only underscores her commitment to education and inclusivity but also highlights her desire to give back to the community.
Achievements
- Driving Cultural Change at Uber: As a Regional Senior Field Operations Manager at Uber, Stephanie oversaw critical operations that directly impacted thousands of drivers across the Northeast, implementing systems designed to boost employee satisfaction and operational efficiency.
- Influencing the Automotive Industry: At Rivian, Stephanie’s leadership during the launch of the all-electric pickup and SUV demonstrated her ability to navigate complex project scopes and collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams. Her efforts in establishing vehicle service centers have positively impacted customer service and satisfaction in the region.
- Championing Diversity as a Career Coach: Through her transformative work at KindWork and now as a professional career coach, Stephanie has become an advocate for challenging biased hiring practices. Her approach combines personal storytelling with strategic insights, empowering candidates to connect authentically with hiring teams in the tech industry. Her workshops focus on building self-confidence and fostering connections that transcend traditional qualification metrics.
- Community Impact through Education: Serving on the board for Hostos Community College Foundation, her dedication to education equity and student support has resulted in over $400,000 raised for scholarships, providing immense opportunities for underrepresented students pursuing higher education.
- Personal Storytelling Advocate: Stephanie encourages candidates to harness their personal stories as a means of enhancing their hiring potential, focusing on authenticity and resilience while emphasizing the importance of connection over competition.
Conclusion
Looking ahead, Stephanie Tkach remains steadfast in her mission to influence tech hiring practices while promoting personal and professional fulfillment both in and out of the workplace. She actively combats the notion of 'workism', emphasizing that true contentment comes from a balance between professional endeavors and personal growth. As a proud Queer LatinX woman, wife, and mother, Stephanie is on an inspiring journey of self-discovery and development, advocating for others to embark on similar paths to realization and authenticity. By championing inclusive practices and fostering diverse teams within the tech industry, she continues to create pathways for individuals who may have been overlooked or underestimated, further fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity.
