Manuela Papadopol is the executive director of the Microsoft Alumni Network, a membership organization serving more than 50,000 former Microsoft employees. Prior to joining the Alumni Network, she dedicated her career to propelling the consumer technology landscape forward as co-founder of Designated Driver and SANSEA Consulting, global business strategy and marketing roles at Elektrobit, Microsoft, Mercedes-Benz and BMW.

She currently sits on the advisory board for Udacity, is the co-chair for Washington state safety committee and proudly serves as an ambassador for She’s Mercedes, an organization empowering and mentoring women from all industries. She also contributes her expertise as an advisory board member for Automobility LA, where she spearheaded the groundbreaking Top 10 Automotive Startup Competition.

Beyond her professional achievements, Manuela is an avid mountaineer with AIARE certification. She is proficient in six languages, and she holds a bachelor’s degree from James Madison University in Bucharest and has completed a Business Development Certification program and a Public Relations Certification at the University of Washington.