en
Global
WEConnect International is delighted to announce the appointment of two senior level staff members: Emily Coccia as the Vice President of Development and Saritha Venumbaka as the Vice President of Operations. Emily and Saritha will work together, at headquarters in Washington D.C., to head up global efforts to scale the rapidly growing organization, lead its executive management team, and develop the performance-driven culture.
“We are thrilled to welcome Emily and Saritha as members of our global team in these important new roles,” says WEConnect International CEO & Co-Founder Elizabeth A. Vazquez. “As we approach our 10-year anniversary in 2019, we have accomplished tremendous operational growth—including more than 80 corporate members, with over US$1 trillion in annual purchasing power and over 7,000 women-owned businesses in more than 100 countries worldwide. Emily and Saritha’s collaborative leadership and vision will be vital to strengthening our work and impact over the next 10 years of connecting women-owned businesses to local and global market opportunities.”
Emily Coccia, a successful non-profit strategist and executive with more than 15 years of experience, has a proven track record in bridging non-profits, for-profits, and individuals through custom giving programs and events. Through the cultivation of individual and philanthropic support and business development, Emily has established and implemented the infrastructure needed to grow organizations and build lasting strategic partnerships in both the non and for-profit sector. “I look forward to the opportunity to blend my personal passion for women’s economic empowerment and my background in strategic partnerships and giving programs to advance WEConnect International and create exponential impact across the globe,” says Emily.
Saritha Venumbaka, a global leader in designing and implementing large-scale transformation efforts to achieve operational excellence, brings in-depth knowledge and experience across multiple functions and from both the private and public sector. Previously, she served as an executive and advisor for two regional international financial institutions, where she was involved in implementing innovation and driving positive change. “I am both excited and humbled that my 25-year career and passion for women causes has led me to this point,” says Saritha. “It is both a responsibility and a privilege to support the footprint expansion of WEConnect International and I look forward to the challenges and working to promote opportunities for women entrepreneurs.”
About WEConnect International
WEConnect International is a 501(c)(3) organization that identifies, educates, registers, and certifies women’s business enterprises based outside of the U.S. that are at least 51% owned, managed, and controlled by one or more women, and then connects them with multinational corporate buyers. WEConnect International members represent over $1 trillion in annual purchasing power and a deep commitment to supplier development and inclusive sourcing. The result is a network of corporate buyers working with women business owners based in over 100 countries that are learning, collaborating and winning billions of dollars in new business. For more information, please visit the website here.
For media information, photos, or interview requests:
Sarah Priddy
WEConnect International Communications & Event Manager
