Lara Yumi Tsuji Bezerra built a remarkable 27-year career as an international executive and CEO across seven countries and three continents, leading companies like Bayer and Roche. Growing up in São Paulo, the daughter of doctors, she was surrounded by stories of patients and the challenges of healthcare, inspiring her to pursue a career where she could help people while excelling in the corporate world.
Throughout her career, Bezerra became the first woman in several leadership positions. She aimed to create an environment where her predominantly male colleagues felt comfortable while also introducing new perspectives and solutions.
Her goal was always to combine professional excellence with the desire to do good and find happiness at work. This multifaceted experience led her to take on various roles within companies until she achieved global leadership positions.
One of the most significant moments in her career was stepping onto the international stage, where she became the first woman to lead Bayer in Latin America, specifically in Venezuela, and also the first president of the Germany/Venezuela Chamber of Commerce.
Later, she served as CEO of Roche Pharma in India, completing her executive mission in 2019. Bezerra offers five key lessons for those looking to build an international career, emphasizing the importance of learning, proactivity, and mindset.
In addition to English, mastering other languages, such as Spanish, broadens global opportunities. If you’re aiming to build an international career, there are a few strategies that can facilitate this path. One is to seek opportunities in multinational companies, which often offer the possibility of transferring to other countries.
Working in such companies not only opens doors to global mobility but also allows you to expand your network and engage in international projects, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to learn in different environments.
Moreover, it is essential to adopt an open mindset, adapt to different cultures, and respect new perspectives. These are crucial skills for successfully integrating into global environments. Respecting cultural diversity and the ability to appreciate varied viewpoints can significantly impact your performance in multicultural teams.
Another important point is understanding the local leadership style. Each country and culture has its own ways of leading and managing teams. Understanding how your personal and professional traits align with these different styles helps you adapt your leadership effectively, increasing your chances of success in an international setting.
Showing interest in international transfers and projects is crucial for opening doors to new opportunities. Demonstrating initiative by volunteering for global experiences not only puts you on the radar of your company’s leaders but also highlights your willingness to face challenges and continuously develop in a global environment.
In 2020, Bezerra founded Workcoherence in the United States, a consulting firm focused on mentoring and coaching, with the goal of helping leaders discover and align their purposes. Her work has already impacted over 180 executives, and she will be one of the speakers at the Salto Alto program, an event aimed at women leaders in the U.S.
