Beyond "It's always been done this way": Sofia's growth at Teddy

"It's always been done this way." How many times, upon arriving in a new work environment, have we heard this phrase? A few simple words that might seem harmless, but which hide a sort of reluctance toward change and personal initiative. Well, the experience of Sofia Fabiani at Teddy is a completely different story. Arriving in April 2024, she immediately joined the digital team and, in less than a year, embarked on a significant growth path. Today she holds the role of online merchandising coordinator, managing activities related to the online catalog and the production of digital content for the group's brands.

"When I arrived," Sofia recounts, "I was mainly responsible for managing marketplaces—the digital storefronts where products are sold—and the information flow for all our collections. Since this year, however, I coordinate the team that follows the entire online catalog: from marketplaces to digital production, down to the images and information that accompany every product on our digital channels." Sofia's path began in the world of marketing. After a bachelor's degree in Economics from the University of Rimini, she continued with a master's in Trade and Consumer Marketing in Parma. "Already during university, I realized the digital field was my greatest passion," she explains. "Before arriving at Teddy, I worked for three years at a digital consulting agency in Bologna, also in the fashion sector. Then I decided to move closer to home and seized the opportunity to join Teddy." 

A company that, in reality, she already knew well: "It is a very well-known entity in the area, and it was often talked about during university. I also knew some people who worked there, so it was already a point of reference for me." The first impact with Teddy was positive from the start. "I came from a smaller reality, so entering such a structured company was certainly a change," she says. "But what struck me immediately was the environment: very dynamic, young, and collaborative." An aspect that made the transition natural: "Even though there are many of us and it's hard to know everyone, I felt welcomed from the very first days, both by colleagues and managers. The atmosphere is professional yet informal and friendly. This really makes a difference when working together every day."

Working in digital means moving within a constantly evolving context. For this reason, Sofia says, there is space at Teddy to propose ideas and new tools. "If new solutions to use come to mind, I can propose them freely. They are often welcomed or at least discussed together. I have never been told 'no, because it’s always been done this way.' There is always support from the managers. You are never left alone: if you have a doubt, you can ask and deliberate. This helps a lot, especially when starting a new role." 

At 32, Sofia looks to the future with enthusiasm: "The fact that I grew professionally in a short time makes me realize that the company truly wants to invest in people. This motivates you to always give more." And to the question of whether she would like to continue growing professionally, Sofia has no doubts. "Yes, I would like to. Even if the increase in responsibility might scare me, in an environment like Teddy's, I feel safe because, looking at my experience, there will always be someone willing to lend a hand and find a moment for discussion. I have been here for just under two years, and I feel lucky compared to many of my peers. It is not easy to find such inclusive workplaces with a specific focus on people. Teddy is truly a place where one feels good."