Our team
Advisors

Paul Gollash
Founder
I work with some of the smartest people in EdTech, and I’m fortunate to call a lot of them my friends. When I was a kid growing up in Milwaukee I wanted to be an explorer; then I became an expat, a salesman, a data-junkie, and a venture capitalist. Today, it’s all about creating an incredible technology product that will change the way the world learns languages. I love staggering challenges and working with brilliant people to find creative solutions. My favorite word in another language is polola. ¿Cachai?

Katie Nielson, PhD
Chief Education Officer
I am an applied linguist specializing in instructed second language acquisition. When I was five, I wanted to be a teacher; then I became a student, and I have spent the past thirty years in school. Today, it’s all about making language learning efficient, effective, and fun, using technology and the latest research on how adults learn languages. I love traveling and spending time with my friends and family. My favorite word in another language is cacahuete–peanut in Spanish–because it’s so fun to say.

Jan Viviani
CEO
I traveled the world chasing an Olympic Dream before starting my career. When I was growing up I wanted to be the GM of the NY Mets (still do), then I became an accountant that learned from great mentors. Today, it’s all about enjoying what I do so it never feels like work. I love simple ideas that solve problems and working with a team through challenges along the way. My favorite word in another language is kijárat.

André Almeida
VP of Enterprise Sales & Market Development
I am André. My bachelor’s degree in Business Administration helped me figure out that I wanted to impact the world through Education, which is one of my passions. I love reading, sports, music, arts, and traveling. I speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese fluently. I have a very good level of Italian and I am learning German. Language learning is key to break barriers between different cultures and societies. I am thrilled to participate in the most innovative project for teaching English that is already impacting the lives of millions of people generating more opportunities that contribute to creating a more educated, sustainable, and equal society. My favorite world in another language is “wunderbar.”

Laiz Maiochi
VP of Customer Success
I’m Laiz. When I was younger I wanted to be a doctor, then a journalist, but in the end, I decided to become an architect. However, that didn’t last long because I started doing volunteer work with children and fell in love with the impact of education on people’s lives. Today, it’s all about opening the doors to the world, helping people from different cultures get connected and achieve their goals. I love cooking, traveling and my newest addiction is to read blogs from different parts of the world so I can discover interesting things that are being done. My favorite word in another language is “attraversiamo”, which means “let’s cross over” in English (Yes, it’s from the book Eat, Pray, Love, but it has a lot of meaning in my life).

Beatriz Queiroz
VP of Finance and Operations
I am a Brazilian that is passionate about people and wants to make a positive impact on the world. When I was a kid I wanted to be a teacher, then I became an engineer. Today, it’s all about working with awesome people to disrupt the way we learn a new language, that will empower people and improve relations. I love traveling and eating. My favorite word in another language is hakuna matata, it just sounds so fun and makes me remember my childhood.

Adrian Ferruzca
Customer Success Manager
I’m Adrian. When I was 15 I took my first trip out of my country (Mexico) and during that trip the need to travel and know the world was born in me. I also fully understand that if you can communicate in English, you have a great chance to visit any country and be able to communicate without problems. In my first job in a restaurant, I acquired my passion for serving people. I understood that whether you buy a hamburger or a car, you also want great customer service. Then I became a professional in account management and passionate about customer service. Today, it’s all about helping people and companies to achieve their goals. My favorite word in another language is “amazing.” I think that captures the essence of language in its meaning and its sound.

Kieran Schofield
Instruction Operations Director
I’m Kieran. When I was a child I wanted to be a soccer player, then I became a TV scheduler. Today, it’s all about problem-solving and driving quality and efficiency through training. I love walking around a city and getting lost to discover its charms, off the beaten track. My favorite word in another language is “trocadilho”, which is Portuguese for wordplay or puns.

Chris Kearns
Director of Product
I’m Chris. When I was in middle school, I wanted to be a pop star. Then in high school, I wanted to be a political activist involved in a revolution. Eventually, I became an English teacher. Today, it’s all about really listening to people and figuring out how language training can be a force of empowerment and transformation. I love cooking meals with far too many ingredients and exploring the outdoors. My favorite word in another language is взгляд (vzglyad), because it was such a challenge to learn to let go of vowels.

Chris Osborn
Chief Technology Officer
I am always looking to initiate rationally radical innovation. When I was eight, I wanted to be an Arctic explorer, then I became a global adventure traveler (but not the Arctic yet). Today, it’s all about technology, robots, automation, and building software to eat the world. I love skiing, cars, and being anywhere outdoors. My favorite phrase in another language is “pura vida.”

Susy Kremer
Account Executive, Channel Partners
I am the Global Account Strategist at Voxy. When I was young I wanted to open a French bakery in New York City, then I moved to the U.S. for school and started a career in education. Today, it’s all about helping people learn English in a more exciting way. I love traveling and meeting new people. My favorite word in another language is “pantouflard,” which means homebody in French and comes from “pantoufle” (slippers).

Jesse Richards
VP of Product
Hi! I’m the VP of Product here at Voxy. All growing up, I wanted to be an artist. I ended up as a User Experience designer and then a Product Manager. Today it’s still all about helping solve user needs through great products. In the rest of my time, I love playing Legos with my daughter and giving volunteer tours of New York City. My favorite word in another language is taco!

Eliane Iwasaki
Head of Revenue Growth
I am the Head of Revenue Growth at Voxy. When I was starting my career I wanted to be part of a global company in Brazil. Then I became a global Marketing professional, interacting with teams, clients, and partners across the globe, thanks to a lot of learnings, but the major one was learning English! Today it’s all about working for a company that helps professionals to grow and exceed their career goals, by empowering them to speak English. I love building relationships and experiencing new cultures. My favorite word in another language is passion (paixão / pasión), very strong, meaningful, and translates easily once it’s similar in French/English, Portuguese, and Spanish!

Katie Fallone
Sr. Director of Marketing & Operations
I am the Sr. Director of Marketing & Operations. When I was younger I wanted to train killer whales because I was obsessed with the Free Willy movies. After developing an interest in psychology, I pursued a Masters in School Counseling and then I moved abroad and became an English Language teacher. Today it’s all about enabling people to leverage technology to improve their language skills, and in turn, their lives. I am responsible for training people around the world to spread the Voxy mission and bring effective and fun English training to those who need it most. I love trying desserts from around the world and my favorite word in another language is “Figurati!” in Italian. Based on the context, “Figurati” can mean anything from “No problem!” to “Not in a million years!” to “Don’t go there!”.

Christina Appel
Office Manager & People Operations Coordinator
I am the Office Manager & People Operations Coordinator. When I was young, I wanted to be a writer, and then I became an English language teacher. Today, it’s all about learning from others. I love libraries and practicing Spanish. My favorite word in Spanish is ‘ronronear’.

Iswarya Parupudi
Director of Engineering
I’m Iswarya, a ‘Gryffindor’, fitness enthusiast, and music lover. When I was five, I wanted to be an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) Officer to help make people’s lives better. Then I became a software engineer. Today, it’s all about striving to be a better version of myself each day and helping others get there as well. I am passionate about bringing individuals and teams together. I love cooking and I enjoy planning & organizing. My favorite word in another language is “Amma” which means “Mother” in Telugu.

Mauricio Cortes
Account Executive
My name is Mauricio. I am someone who is passionate about technology, and who believes that creativity and education are fundamental pieces in making a better world. When I was a kid, I wanted to be an airplane pilot. Then I traveled around the globe and became an account executive working for incredible tech companies. Today, it’s all about looking for people who want to make a real impact on their organizations, and who are agents of change who want to transform the world and break the barriers of language. I love music, the outdoors and traveling to new places. My favorite word in another language is in Spanish, and it is ‘gracias’. Being thankful is really easy and always makes people smile.

Nátalia Coelho
Senior Customer Success Manager
I’m Natalia. When I was a child I wanted to be an obstetrician because I wanted to bring babies into the world, and as a teenager, I wanted to be an actress. Then I became a customer success representative. Today, it’s all about helping people to achieve their goals, which is very rewarding, especially when it comes to delivering knowledge and opening doors to the many different opportunities that a new language provides. I love to travel, read books, and listen to all kinds of music. My favorite word in another language is ‘awesome’ because it sounds great and has good energy.

Christian Spong
Account Executive
Hi, I’m Chris. I’m an account executive in the São Paulo office. When I was a child, I wanted to be a rock star or a famous actor. Then I became an adult and found out that this was only a young kid’s dream, and that selling innovative products was my real passion. Today, it’s all about making the world a better place and changing the way people live their lives. I love sports, cooking, music, and traveling around the world. My favorite sentence in another language is ‘mangia que te fa bene’ in Italian.

Carlos Orbe
Sales Representative
I am a Sales Development Representative here at Voxy. When I was younger, I wanted to be an FBI agent. Then I became a sales rep, a digital nomad, and an online English teacher. Today, it’s all about helping people around the world learn English using the most advanced technology and providing them with a personalized way of learning. I love learning new skills, exploring new places, and learning about different cultures and religions. My favorite word in another language is ‘bravo’, which means ‘well done!” in Italian.

Laura Podsiadlo
Product Designer
I’m Laura. When I was younger I wanted to be an artist. Then I became fascinated with user-centered design. Today, it’s all about happiness. I love elephants and my dream is to befriend one. My favorite phrase in another language is the Polish proverb “Nie mój cyrk, nie moje małpy” which literally means “Not my circus, Not my monkey”.

Carl Negro
Engineering Lead
I’m Carl, an Engineering Lead at Voxy. When I was young, I wanted to be a musician. Then I became an engineer. Now it’s all about sushi. I love languages, cooking, and museums. My favorite word in another language is “ouais”, which is the informal “yes” in French.

Eric Chirlin
Engineering Lead
I’m Eric, an Engineering Lead at Voxy. When I was five, I wanted to be either a baseball player or Peter Pan. Then, I became a software engineer. Today, it’s all about learning and improving in all aspects of life so that I can help others to do the same. I love meeting new people, learning new things, listening to music, practicing kung fu, and drinking tea. My favorite word in another language is 義氣 (“yi hei”), which in Cantonese means “the spirit of putting others before yourself without thought of reward.”

Rebecca Payne-Passmore
Director of Content & Learning Design
I am the Director of Content & Learning Design at Voxy. When I was little, I wanted to be a veterinarian because I love animals. In college, I studied early childhood development and education. Today, it’s all about creating engaging and authentic lessons that ignite a passion for learning English. I love long walks in nature with a good audiobook and finding great travel deals. My favorite word in another language is libélula, which means dragonfly in Spanish.

Rebecca Wagoner
Instruction Manager
I’m Becca. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a therapist, but more than anything I wanted to live abroad, so I became an English teacher in Argentina. At Voxy I focus on supporting our team of remote teachers and helping our learners use English authentically to reach their personal goals. I love road trips with my dog and taking photos of old cars. One of my favorite words is cotufa which means “popcorn” in Venezuela. It comes from saying “corn to fry,” a perfect example of how simple and creative language can be.

Divya Manjunath
Sr. Software Engineer
I’m Divya, a software engineer at Voxy. When I was young, I wanted to be a detective hunting down thugs.
Then, I became a software engineer; today is all about hunting down bugs. I love to read, travel and learn about new things, people, and cultures. I have an insatiable appetite for desserts from across the globe. My favorite word in another language is “Prego”- pronounced a bit like “Pray go”, which in Italian can be used in multiple contexts like “You’re Welcome!”, “What’s up?” and “Come on in.”

Lucila Alves dos Santos
Accounting Coordinator
I am the Accounting Coordinator in the São Paulo office. When I was younger, I wanted to be a Hollywood actress. Then I became an accountant. Today, it’s all about helping people and improving the company’s finance processes in order to have more efficiency and better analytics. I love trying different kinds of food, swimming and running. My favorite word in another language is ‘gracias’, it sounds like music to me!

Mariana Arellano
Demand Generation Associate Manager
I am a travel lover/addict. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a flight attendant. Then I became a marketer for multinational companies which allowed me to travel a lot. Today, it’s all about making education more accessible in order to give people access to more opportunities. I love my pets, and I love traveling in order to experience new cultures. My favorite word in another language is ‘ata-ata’ which means ‘to laugh’ in Rapa Nui.

Matheus Torrano
Sr. Marketing Analyst
Hey there! I’m Matheus. While I was studying Business Administration at the university, I found out that marketing and communication are my true passions. Today, it’s all about creating valuable experiences that bring more happiness into people’s lives. I love music, creativity, innovation, and cooking. My favorite word in another language is “parola”, which simply means “word” in Italian.

Eduardo Berwanger
Sales Operations Manager
Hi there! I am the Sales Operations Manager at Voxy. During my career I have often worked with international companies, being constantly exposed to different languages and cultures. Then I became accustomed to global initiatives, working with several countries as we looked for solutions that could help organizations every day. Today it is all about communication; it is a key factor on any front nowadays, be it in a company, diplomatic mission, or even as we gain friends and relatives living in other countries. I love bringing people together, and with them, overcoming challenges. My favorite word in another language is “Horizon”.

Camila Fernandes
Director of People
I am the Director of People. When I was a kid I wanted to be a dentist. Then I became a psychologist, which is still focused on human health, but in a different way. Today, it’s all about learning every day through meaningful human connections. I love traveling and getting to know new places and cultures. I’m also passionate about yoga and sports. My favorite word in another language is “cuchara” which simply means “spoon” in Spanish, but I like the way it’s pronounced.

Danilo Matos
Product Support Manager
I am someone who is passionate about technology and how it can make people’s lives better. When I was a kid I wanted to be a magician. Then I became dedicated to helping people, and I’m currently a Product Support Lead. Today it is all about generating opportunity. I love learning and helping people achieve their goals. My favorite word in another language is “Ohana”, which means family.

Viviana Castro
Sales Development Representative
Hi! I´m Viviana. I was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina. In 2013, I moved to São Paulo (that was a dream come true since I always loved the Brazilian culture, music, food, and people’s joy). When I was a kid, I wanted to be many things and while figuring out what I really wanted, I ended up studying English and Portuguese…that´s how I found out learning languages was my real passion. Later, I became a specialist in Customer Service and Technical Support for many technology companies where English was essential in order to interact with teams all over the world. Today, it’s all about connecting with people and educating them on Voxy’s English learning solutions. As a Sales Development Representative, it is my commitment to help people so that they can also achieve their professional and personal goals. I love traveling, cooking, baking, and spending time with my little son. I also love drinking Mates, which is a traditional hot beverage we share with our dear friends and family. My favorite word in another language is “Saudade” because of its emotional meaning and the way it sounds when pronounced.

Patricia Santos
Accounting Director
Hi! I’m Patricia and I am the Accounting Director at Voxy. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a teacher or a designer. In high school, I took some time to decide between Accounting or Chemical Engineering. Then I became an accountant and I love what I do! Today, it’s all about working with amazing people in a company that has the mission to improve people’s lives by teaching English and opening doors to a new world. I love challenges and discovering new things, new places. I am also a big fan of movies and TV series, and I love to spend time with my family and friends. My favorite word in another language is “joie”, a French word that means “joy”.

Rodrigo Saretto
Account Executive
I am Rodrigo, part of the Sales team here at Voxy and a travel addict. When I was a kid I wanted to be a backpacker, so I would be able to travel the whole world discovering new places and meeting new people. Then I became an adult and realized that Uncle Ben was right and if we want to change the world, it comes with great responsibilities. Today, it is all about making the world a better place and giving people the chance to achieve their dreams and connect with themselves by breaking down language barriers. I love trying new food, sports, and traveling to exotic places that are not so explored. My favorite word in another language is “Mamma mia!”, an Italian expression that can be used in so many situations and that always comes with a funny facial or body gesture.

Agatha Fonseca
Learner Experience Lead
I am the Learner Experience Lead at Voxy. When I was a little girl, I wanted to be a writer. I ended up studying International Relations which was incredible and made me think bigger in every aspect of my life. Also, I worked on a few educational projects before Voxy and found myself in this field. Today, I really love my routine, and it’s all about being emphatic and understanding our learners and guiding them to achieve their goals and empowering themselves. I love to travel and hang out with my friends in places surrounded by nature. My favorite word in another language, my native one, is “cafuné” in Portuguese. This word only exists in Portuguese, and it means to caress the hair of someone you love.

Vanessa Villalobos
Business Development and Training Specialist
Hello! I am Vane! I am a proud Venezuelan living in Mexico for 6 years now and counting! As soon as I graduated from university, I had the opportunity to become an au pair in the USA for an amazing family. That experience changed my life and led me to finally discover my passion which is making a difference in the world through education. Ultimately, everything I have done in my professional career has been related to this personal goal. I love to spend time with my family and friends, cook, and sing. I also enjoy traveling and seeing new places and meeting new people around the world, whom without a doubt, has become a big part of who I am today. My favorite word in another language is “Inshallah” which is an Arabic word that means “God Willing”.

Alex Harano
Software Engineer
I am Alex. When I was in middle school, I decided to be an engineer like my father. Then I became a software engineer, which involves solving problems differently compared to what I imagined back then. Today, it’s all about contributing to society in a functional and non-destructive way. I love being tranquil and taking time to enjoy wherever I am. My favorite word in another language is はくさい which means Napa cabbage in Japanese, a vegetable which I like very much, and it can also be read as “smelly teeth”, making me giggle sometimes when I remember that fact while eating it.

Luiza Ciasca
Sales Representative
I’m Luiza, a member of the sales team here at Voxy, responsible for bringing new projects in! I’m a food lover and travel addict, crazy about getting to know different cultures, trying different and exotic food, and exchanging experiences. Being able to work on breaking down barriers of communication is a perfect fit for me! I speak Portuguese, Spanish, and English fluently, and I’ve been studying French as a hobby. When I was a kid I wanted to become a businesswoman that had to travel worldwide for a company with an impact on society. I can now say that I am pretty much in the right place! My favorite two words: wanderlust and empathy!

Anna Murray
Assistant Manager of Content
I am the Assistant Manager of Content. When I was little, I wanted to be a zoologist like Jane Goodall. Then I moved abroad after college, became an English language teacher, and discovered I absolutely loved it. Today, I work to channel everything I’ve learned about language and language learning into creating meaningful and useful resources for learners. I love seeing new places, eating really good food, and getting absorbed in a really good story. My favorite word in another language is “magari” in Italian – depending upon the context and tone of voice/body language it can mean anything from a simple “maybe” to “yeah, sounds good to me!” to “ha, I wish!”.

Michelle Franhan
Instruction Coordinator
I am the Instruction Coordinator. When I was a child, I wanted to be a teacher. Then, I studied to be a translator, but in the end, I became an English teacher. Today, it’s all about helping people learn English so they can achieve their personal and professional goals. I love traveling and meeting people from different cultures. My favorite word in English is “Serendipity”.

Paola Latrônico
Account Executive
I am Paola, part of the Sales Team at Voxy. When I was 16 years old I opened a clothing store on Instagram to help me with the cost of living in San Paolo, and then I realized that sales were in my blood. Even when I was a child I played the part of the saleswoman with my dolls as my clients. Then I became a saleswoman that is always trying to improve and achieve my personal goals. Today, it’s all about trying to reduce the disparity around the world, and Voxy is the best way to achieve this, especially because I believe that everything starts with education. I love dogs and food (taurine, right?), but getting to know new cultures makes me feel really fulfilled! It’s awesome to understand the culture and all the reasons that a place has to do what they do. My favorite word in another language is Ganbaru, or Strive – never give up and persist; the ability to develop in a deep and determined way and believe that it is never luck, but strive!

Camila Balbino
HR Intern
Hi! I am the HR Intern. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a fashion designer. As time went by, I realized that I didn’t have the slightest skill for the profession, but my love for fashion, clothes, and trends remains, so now I put this love into the way I dress. Then I discovered a passion for people, culture, and geopolitical studies. Because of these, I found myself studying International Relations. Today, it’s all about working on projects that I believe will bring a positive impact to society. I love reading, watching movies, and traveling to different places. My favorite word in another language is “marvelous” because I like the meaning and the pronunciation.

Rafaela Franco
Customer Success Manager
I am Rafa, I am a Customer Success Manager in the Sao Paulo office. When I was a child I wanted to be a reporter journalist; I was very curious but super shy. As I became an adolescent, I got to be more extroverted, made more friends, and decided to study Communications in college. I graduated, specialized in television production, and for a while worked in the advertising area. While working in digital marketing and data analysis, and being in close contact with customers and clients, I discovered a passion for working with people, creating close relationships, solving problems, and developing strategies to enhance their business. This process led me to the Customer Success area, and today it’s all about making customers achieve their goals! I love traveling, cooking, having friends for dinner, taking care of my lovely plants, cats, and dog. My favorite word in another language is Kartoffel, which means potato in German; I just love how it sounds!

Baldo Perez
Product Support Representative
I am a Product Support Representative here at Voxy. When I was a child, I wanted to be an actor, and I actually studied Drama and performed in some TV shows and musical theater productions in Spain. Then I discovered traveling, and I started to work on cruise ships so I could travel and perform at the same time. I have visited a total of 87 different countries, and my goal is to reach 100! Speaking English allowed me to travel and communicate with people all around the world, and today, I am thrilled and excited to help others to achieve their goals and learn a new skill that will make their lives better. My favorite word in another language is “Sawadika” which means Hello in Thai.

Karina del Carlo
Marketing Director
When I was planning my career I knew I wanted to work creatively and make people think differently. I chose the Marketing area and built my career based on analysis and strategies, always seeking to make the company, my team, and co-workers grow together. My goal was to deliver the best work and achieve a high position in a company where my personal goals matched the company’s values and culture. I’m so happy because I love what I do and Voxy is this place. My favorite word is “beYOUtiful” because I believe the true power is within each one of us.

Elysia Rosalind
Jr Software Engineer
I am Elysia, an avid storyteller, and creative problem solver. When I was young, I wanted to be an animator. Then I became a technologist. Today, it’s all about traversing a journey of empowerment and exploration through the use of technology and art. I love spicy foods and can talk endlessly about film and interactive media. My favorite word in French is cinématographe.

Paula Resende
Jr Software Engineer
I’m Paula. When I was a child, I wanted to be a teacher or a waitress; then I became a Software Engineer. Today, it’s all about living one day at a time to its fullest, while walking towards a long-term goal. I love reading, spending time with people I love, and studying psychoanalysis. My favorite word in another language is ’’Komorebi’’, a Japanese word that refers to the interplay between light and leaves when sunlight shines through trees.

Ashley Dresser
Senior Instruction Coordinator
Hi! I’m the Senior Instruction Coordinator. When I was little, I wanted to be a wildlife expert on TV. In university, I studied international relations, sustainability, and linguistics. Today, it’s all about creating meaningful learning experiences that empower teams and individuals. I love the great outdoors and code-switching. My favorite word in another language is “querencia”, which was once poetically explained to me as “the place where you know exactly who you are.”

Cristopher Freitas
Software Engineer
When I was a kid, I dreamt about being an engineer or a scientist. Then, I fell in love with computers & technology. Since then, I got a B.S. in Computer Engineering and M.S. in computational modeling of knowledge at UFAL. I love a good cup of coffee and a friendly conversation.

Lucas Inocente
Senior Front End Software Engineer
I am Lucas Inocente. When I was a teenager, I wanted to be a vocalist in a hardcore band. Then I became a software engineer. Today, it’s all about being a better person, to see and share the love with the world. I love music, my two dogs, my brother, and my mother. My favorite word in another language is Mulungu.

Juanjo García Arco
Sales Director
Hi, I’m Juanjo, Sales Director in Spain. When I was a child, I wanted to be an astronaut and travel to space, although I ended up studying Business Administration and Law. So now, I have a very different but equally exciting mission. I help companies and their employees to communicate better in the language of business through the most innovative training solution in English. I love traveling, meeting people, and building close professional relationships and team projects. My favorite word in another language is “voilà”.

Elena Rufo
Sales Director
Hi, I am Elena Rufo and I work at Voxy as Sales Director in Spain. When I was a teenager, I realized the world was enormous and it had a lot to offer, so I decided I wanted to be a traveler! My dream was to speak as many languages as I could and learn from all different cultures. I lived in the U.S., UK & Australia and learned English, German and Portuguese! Due to my passion for education, languages, traveling, and helping people, I became an organizational psychologist and played different roles in top international companies in the sector. Today, here at Voxy, it’s all about making sure that every single person achieves their learning objectives through the best and latest technology. I love sports, jokes, a good laugh, taking on new challenges, squeezing every moment out of life, and empathizing with other people. My favorite word in another language is “stunning” because of the power of how it sounds and its meaning – “deslumbrante”.

Rodrigo Millem
Technical Project Manager
I’m Project Manager at Voxy. I used to be a handball player and act professionally, and because of that, I had the chance to study with a scholarship, earn my diploma and some medals. Today I still play, but not as a professional. I love sports, video games, and making barbecues for my family and friends. I am passionate about technology and my desire is to transform businesses/lives with digital innovation. My favorite word in Italian is “prosperità”.

Andrei Ce
Product Manager
I am Andrei. When I was younger, I wanted to be a motorbike racer, but my parents said it was too expensive, so I studied Industrial Engineering instead. I love cultural diversity and how tech impacts society, and that is why my career choices have centered around strategy, web development, and product management areas — always in tech. I have lived in 5 countries and am very lucky to have learned about different cultures. Languages have opened some doors for me, and today it is all about helping people have the same opportunities! My favorite word in another language is “Pachamama”, which means something like “Mother Earth” in Quechua.

Jonathanns Candido
Sales Development Representative
I work as an SDR in Brazil. When I was a child, I wanted to be an actor. I’ve always loved movies and soap operas so much that I dreamed of being part of them one day. Then I realized that I love communication so I graduated in Marketing. Now I help Voxy to find and reach out to companies that we can support with our platform. My biggest passions are music and cooking. I love spending hours cooking and listening to my favorite songs. My favorite word in another language is “persuasion” because of its’ sound.

Claudia Perez
Account Executive
I am the Sales Executive at Mexico’s office. When I was a kid I wanted to be a teacher, then I became a sales executive in technology, working for amazing companies that have given me a lot of experience and knowledge, and I’ve had the opportunity to demonstrate how technology can transform organizations for the better. Today, it’s all about helping and teaching people how they can transform their organizations with better communication, and how by investing in Learning & Development in English, they can break down their language barriers and become more effective. I love to travel, meet new people, and be the agent of change and transform their lives with a simple smile. My favorite word in another language is “jolie” which means beautiful in French.

David Santos
Jr. Software Engineer in Test
I’m David. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a judge or work in the tech industry. Then I became a software engineer. Today, it’s all about being happy and making people happier. I love tech things, cooking, and partying with friends. My favorite word in another language is “voilà” which means “there it is” in French.

Gaspar Neto
Software Engineer
I’m Gaspar, Software Engineer. When I was a kid, growing up in a very small city in Minas Gerais in Brazil, my dream was to be a rodeo rider. As I grew up I become passionate about science and technology and decided to become an engineer. Today is all about harnessing code. Beyond technology, it’s very important to me that my work impacts people’s lives for the better. I like cycling and exploring new places. My favorite word in another language is “truth”.

Paul Franklin
Channel Partner Associate Director
I strive to be that person who would work with you to drive better outcomes. When I was young, I wanted to be an Engineer and work in the Automobile Industry. I did grow up to become an engineer and then transitioned into a software solutions advisor career. Today, it’s all about helping people be the very best they can be with the power of technology. I love traveling and exploring cuisines from different countries. My favorite word in another language is “Muthh.” It is a word believed to be used straight from the heart, without the use of your mind to convey how special someone is to you. But it doesn’t necessarily mean you love them.

Edionay Aguiar
Front End Engineer
I am a person who is always ready for new experiences. As a child, I dreamed of being a biologist because I love whales. Then I became a software engineer, but I still love whales, even though I’ve never seen one in person. I love cooking, playing computer games with friends, and discovering new corners of the place where I live. My favorite word in another language is “cœur”, which means heart in French. This word means a lot to me and, in addition to having a nice and interesting pronunciation, it has a character that is not part of the alphabet of my mother tongue.

Fabiana Seabra
Sales Development Representative
Hey there! I am Fabiana, but you can call me Fabi. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a dancer. Growing up, I found out that I could do that as a hobby and use my passion for numbers and communication to find my profession. After I graduated as a Civil Engineer, I discovered a love for Sales and Marketing and found myself working in that area. Today, it’s all about giving my all in everything I do and trying to make a difference in our world. I love dancing, surfing, traveling, petting my dog, and hanging out with my friends. My favorite word in another language is “κέφι” which means “fun” in Greek.

Bárbara Furlan
Product Support Representative
I am one of the Product Support Representatives here at Voxy. When I was younger, I wanted to travel the world. Then I learned English and became able to communicate with people from other nationalities, which also helped me to explore different countries and learn about different cultures. Today, it’s all about helping people achieve their goals, so being able to help people learn a new language is really exciting. I love traveling, being in nature, and being with friends and family. My favorite word in another language is “wanderlust”, which means desire to travel.

Lucas Emerick
Software Engineer
I’m Lucas Emerick. When I was a kid I wanted to be an “inventor” because I thought it was a profession. Now, I really became an inventor creating things and helping others create as a Software Engineer. Also, I am an anthropologist and I enjoy researching cultures, languages, and music.

Ana Clara Oscar
Software Engineer in Test
Hi! I am Ana Clara, and I’m a Software Engineer in Test. When I was a child, I wanted to be a ballet dancer. Then I grew up, I learned about tech, and I fell in love with it. After completing my associate degree in technology, I started my career as a mobile developer. Today, I work with Quality Assurance (QA), making sure that bugs don’t escape from my sight. I really love learning about different countries/cultures, especially about their cuisine. In my free time, I really like to work out and play D&D (Dungeons and Dragons). My favorite word in another language is “magnifique”, a French word that means “magnificent”.

Aitor Goya
Sales Development Representative
I am the Sales Development Representative in Spain. When I was a kid, I wanted to be an astronaut. Then I became an IT graduate, I worked in Sales and I was lucky enough to enjoy music as a hobby and as a job. Today, it’s all about learning from every experience and the people around me, and giving all I have to help out. I love my family (pets included), friends, music, and traveling around the world. My favorite word in another language is “aloha”, a Hawaiian word to say hello and bye.

Maria Fernanda Veras
Jr. Recruiter
Hey! My name is Maria Fernanda, but you can call me Mafê. I am a Recruiter here at Voxy, if you’re thinking about applying to one of our positions, we’ll probably meet. When I was a kid I never had a dream job I could think about, but I knew I wanted to work with people since I’m very communicative. My parents wanted me to be a doctor but then, after a long self-knowledge journey, I became a Psychologist. Today, it’s all about connecting to people, understanding different realities besides my own and, if possible, making a difference in people’s lives. At the same time, I long to participate actively in helping the company grow and develop, and I believe my position plays an important role in it. I love sports, reading, watching tv, going to the beach, traveling, and spending time with my family, my pets, and friends. My favorite word in another language is “Petrichor”, which, in English, means a pleasant scent of rain in the air.

Timothy L. Murray
Timothy L. Murray is an accomplished executive with decades of experience leading successful public and private companies. Most recently, Mr. Murray was President and Chief Operating Officer of K-12 (NYSE: LRN). Previously he held CEO positions at Pulsepoint, Inc., Datran Media, Dialogic Inc., Cross Match Technologies, and Riversoft Plc. Mr. Murray began his career at AT&T, where he held a number positions, including President of Business Network Services, a $22B business unit. Mr. Murray is currently Chairman of the Board of Middlebury Interactive Languages, the Executive Chairman at Voxy, the CEO of Redline Speed Worx and a Director of Clarke Group. He is also an Operating Advisor to Red Oak Growth Partners. Mr. Murray received a BS and MS in Management and Industrial Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

Arrun Kapoor
Arrun Kapoor is the Managing Director for SJF Ventures’ New York City office. He has been involved as a Board Director or Observer to Voxy, Portfolium, Civitas Learning, Raise, Think Through Learning, FieldView Solutions, ServiceChannel, Truist, and Ayla Networks. He leads the NYC EdLinks program, is a member of the Investment Board of the Social Venture Fund for The Tamer Center for Social Enterprise at Columbia Business School, and is an Advisory Board Member of NYC ACRE: NYU-Poly Accelerator. Arrun was most recently with Bain & Company in London and Delhi, where he launched the firm’s internal green practice initiatives. He worked with Bain’s private equity consulting practice and gained experience in a range of industries. Prior to Bain, he was an early employee and Manager with Eurasia Group, a successful political risk consulting business in New York and London. He holds a Master’s in International Political Economics from the London School of Economics and completed a BA from New York University with an economics and business focus.

Judy Verses
Judy Verses is currently SVP, Research at Wiley, Inc. Previously, she spent six years as President, Global Enterprise & Education at Rosetta Stone (NYSE: RST), an online language learning and literacy company. Prior to that, Judy was President and Chief Client Officer at Blackboard, a leading supplier of educational enterprise software. From 1983 to 2007, Judy held several senior leadership roles at telecommunications giant Verizon. Judy has served as a mentor with the Laura Bush Fellowship Initiative and from 2014-2015 was a Non-Executive Director on the board of Promethean World, a global provider of solutions for the interactive and engaged classroom. Judy earned her B.S. from the University of Connecticut.

Rick Segal
Mr. Richard D. Segal, is the Managing Director and Managing Partner at Rethink Education. Rick is the Founder, President, Chairman and Chief Executive officer at Seavest Inc. Mr. Segal founded the firm in 1982. In his role with Seavest, he has served on a number of public and private Boards of Directors including education-related portfolio companies. He has over 25 years of experience in commercial real estate and venture capital markets. He is deeply committed to creating better communities through his philanthropic engagements, which are primarily focused on health, education, providing opportunities for low income children and the arts. Mr. Segal received a B.A., cum laude and with honors, in English from Wesleyan University.

Jeff Rinehart
For the past decade, Jeff has held a series of senior roles leveraging an analytical focus first to drive business unit level results in credit and lending. He ultimately ran marketing strategy for Capital One’s consumer and small business card divisions, managing a high 9-figure marketing budget and driving over $5 billion in revenue. Jeff has been responsible for the development of cutting edge online targeting and segmentation methodologies in online lead generation channels as well as new data-driven techniques for inbound site optimization.

Jonathon Reinhardt
Jonathon Reinhardt is an Associate Professor of English Applied Linguistics at the University of Arizona, and teaches in the MATESL and SLAT PhD programs. He has taught English as a second or foreign Language in Japan, Austria and the United States. His main research is on technology-enhanced language learning, especially on the use and design of digital games and social media for classroom-based and independent language teaching and learning.

Marta González-Lloret
Marta González-Lloret is an Associate Professor at the Spanish Division of the Department of Languages and Literatures of Europe and the Americas at the University of Hawaii, Manoa and cooperative faculty at the department of Second Language Studies. Her main areas of interest are technology and TBLT, technology and L2 pragmatics, Conversation Analysis for L2 technology-mediated interaction; teacher training; and materials development.

Megan Masters
Megan Masters is the Director of Academic Technology and Innovation at the University of Maryland College Park. In this position, she provides leadership and management of enterprise-wide initiatives related to student, faculty, and staff experiences with technologies. She employs a quantitative, program evaluation-based approach to provide evidence-based insights, guidance, and recommendations concerning the use and efficacy of UMD academic technology-related systems and services. She has extensive experience teaching ESL and is an adjunct professor of program evaluation and assessment at the U.S. State Department. She earned her PhD in Second Language Acquisition from the University of Maryland College Park. Her personal research interests include: foreign language program evaluation and assessment, impact assessment, learning analytics, changes in foreign language proficiency skills over time, the validity of self-assessment instruments, Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT), particularly in the distance learning format, the role of individual differences in Second Language Acquisition, and Task-Based Language Assessment (TBLA).

Manuel Bronstein
Manuel is currently GM of Game Studio at Zynga. Prior to this role Bronstein was Sr. director of Product for FarmVille. Before joining Zynga, Manuel was Director of Social Interactive Entertainment at Xbox LIVE, leading strategy, portfolio and business management for the Video & Music business, Applications, and New Interactive Entertainment Experiences for Xbox, including Netflix, LastFM, Facebook, Twitter and ESPN.

Aron Grossman
I am Aron. When I was a child, I wanted to be a Pitcher for the Boston Red Sox; then I became an investment banker. Today, it’s all about building the world’s largest and most effective language learning company, with an audience much larger than Fenway Park. I love traveling and meeting people from new cultures. My favorite word in another language is otorrinolaringólogo.

Mark Chernis
Mark is currently the President of the K12 Technology Division of Pearson following Pearson’s acquisition of Schoolnet where he was the President and Chief Operating Officer. Prior to Schoolnet, Mark was the Chief Operating Officer of The Princeton Review. During his 24 year career at The Princeton Review, Mark either held or oversaw key leadership positions in nearly every sector of the Company. He now lives in Bedford, NY, where he is a twice-elected member of the Board of Education for the Bedford Central School District.

Jeremy Johnson
Jeremy founded his first company, a marketplace for virtual currency, at 15 and his second, a social network around the college admissions process, at 21 while a student at Princeton University. Having raised funding contingent on him taking time off to run it, he left Princeton to pursue the venture and, two years later, negotiated its acquisition by Zinch. In 2008, Jeremy co-founded 2tor with John Katzman, founder of the Princeton Review, to explore the final frontier of online higher education. Jeremy serves on the board of the Young Entrepreneur Council, is an active angel investor and advisor to a select group of technology ventures on both coasts. Jeremy is an avid foodie, and may be the best possible person to ask for a restaurant recommendation.

Erick Tseng
Erick joined Facebook in May 2010 as the company’s Head of Mobile Products. Previously, he had worked at Google for nearly 4 years, where he helped launch and grow Android, Google’s open source mobile operating system as the group’s Lead Product Manager. He then joined the Android team, where he proceeded to launch Android 1.0, as well as subsequent platform releases. Most recently, he led the overall development and launch of Google’s Nexus One phone.

Gregg Carey
Gregg is a team-builder, and relentlessly passionate about connecting good people to meaningful work. He started his career at Sapient during the dot-com boom, designing some of the world’s first websites. Gregg went on to work at STA Group as a business architect, and later founded Bunkhouse Media, an email newsletter targeting young professionals. Gregg is a Voxy co-founder, and has spent the last six years building the company. His roles at Voxy have included Head of Product, VP of Operations and VP of People Operations.

Joshua Duyan
Joshua joined Lumosity in 2007 where he is currently a member of the management team. He has helped pioneer research into human cognitive performance, develop web and mobile products, build the leading science-based learning brand, and reach hundreds of millions of users. In addition, Joshua co-founded and sold Revolver, LLC, a health and fitness company that produced a suite of 7 iPhone apps and was acquired by MapMyFitness, Inc. Joshua started his career co-founding an eCommerce wine company, RiotWine, LLC, which is now operated by Bottlenotes, Inc. Joshua graduated from the University of Pennsylvania.

Chip Paucek
Chip is the CEO and Co-founder of 2U, a company that partners with universities to build, administer, and market online degree programs. 2U supplies universities with the tools, expertise, capital, and global recruiting needed to compete in a space currently dominated by mediocre programs. Previously Chip was CEO of Hooked on Phonics where he expanded access to the program by bringing it from infomercial sales to distribution across major US retailers.

Dan Porter
Dan Porter is the creator of Draw Something, the fastest growing mobile app in the history of mobile. After selling his social games company OMGPOP, he became the GM of Zynga New York. Previously he was the SVP of corporate development managing investments for Richard Branson and the Virgin Group. Dan started out working with bands at RCA Records, was a public school teacher and President of the Teach For America program and President of Ticket web, which he sold to IAC.

Gary Vaynerchuk
Gary Vaynerchuk has captured attention with his pioneering, multi-faceted approach to personal branding and business. After primarily utilizing traditional advertising techniques to build his family’s local retail wine business into a national industry leader, Gary rapidly leveraged social media tools such as Twitter and Facebook to promote Wine Library TV, his video blog about wine. Gary’s success has led to a seven-figure book deal, several national TV appearances, and a flurry of speaking engagements around the world. Gary’s dual identity as both business guru and wine guy has made him the “Social Media Sommelier.”

Richard P. Ramirez
Richard has directed the development, launch and management of businesses in online video and music, marketing, social, traffic information and logistics, consumer services and distance learning. A current Director of Zumbox, a leader in Digital Postal Mail services, he has also been an Advisor to Shelter Capital and Starvest Partners. His work extends from media giants (NBC/U, Greater Media, Univision and Viacom/CBS) to an extensive early stage venture experience (Veoh, Ruckus, Traffic.com, Unext, Cardean Learning Group, K12, Aha Media, Culture 11, ThinkPassenger, MyTime, Infomus, WeDidIt). Richard is a graduate of Boston College, Carroll Scholl Of Management, where he earned BS in Finance. He attended on a full athletic scholarship, earning varsity letters in football.

Jonathan Mazzocchi
With over 25 years of executive recruitment and strategic talent management experience, Jon Mazzocchi has helped build exceptional leadership teams for multiple mid-market PE-owned companies, VC-backed startups, and Fortune 100 powerhouses. As Founder and Managing Partner of Human Capital Valuation Advisors and formerly SVP and Founding Partner for WinterWyman Executive Search, Jon spends the time necessary to understand each organization he’s working with, its structure and key stakeholders – both from a personality and work style standpoint. Jon’s clients include: Artsy, Bonobos, Capsule, Casper, Chewy, Flatiron Health, MineralTree, Paytronix, Veson Nautical, Great Elm Capital, Great Hill Partners, Pamlico Capital, TCV and various others.

Ronald Pillar
Ron is the Founder and CEO of Pillar Capital Advisors. He has over 25 years of experience providing the highest level of advisory work to software and technology companies globally. Ron was a Managing Director at JPMorgan from 2000 through 2008 and was the Head of the Technology Investment Banking Group. He is a trusted advisor to CEOs, CFOs, Boards and Investors and has relationships with the world’s top Technology Executives, Private Equity, Venture Capital firms and several Family Offices. Ron is also a technology investor.

Contour Venture Partners
Contour Venture Partners is a New York City based early stage venture capital firm. Contour invests in companies that provide innovative technology-enhanced products and services into the financial services, digital media and Internet sectors. Contour partners with passionate entrepreneurs and management teams to build great businesses that seek to ultimately transform their industries.

Weld North
Weld North, is an investment company concentrating on education, health and wellness, consumer services and marketing businesses. In partnership with KKR, a leading global alternative asset manager, Weld North seeks to make venture capital and control investments in businesses with high potential for long-term growth in cash flow. As a partner with strong and highly motivated management teams, the firm looks to accelerate growth through a focus on enhancing the customer experience, operational excellence, marketing expertise, and strategic and disciplined management.

Partnership Fund for New York City
The Partnership Fund for New York City is the investment arm of the Partnership for New York City, the city’s premier business organization. The Partnership Fund invests in businesses with principal operations in New York City. The Partnership Fund focuses on new job creation, revitalization of distressed areas, minority-owned enterprises, and innovative ideas or products that position New York at the cutting edge of growth sector industries.

Seavest Capital Partners
Seavest Capital Partners is a private investment firm that invests in early and growth stage companies primarily in the education, life sciences and consumer technology sectors. The firm’s portfolio has included early stage investments in companies such as Wireless Generation (acquired by News Corp. for $400M), Schoolnet (acquired by Pearson for $230M) and Tout.

ff Venture Capital
ff Venture Capital partners with startups that can be the low cost, disruptive player in their respective industry. The firm’s early-stage investments include Quigo Technologies, which was purchased by AOL in December 2007 for a reported $340million, Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD on NASDAQ), which had a successful IPO in March 2011, Klout and 500px.

Rethink Education
Rethink Education is an early-stage education technology venture capital fund investing in companies that have demonstrated success in implementing business models that leverage technology to re-imagine how traditional education is delivered. Rethink’s investments include EverFi, Engrade, Hapara and Pathbrite.

Pearson
Pearson is the world’s leading learning company. Our education business combines 150 years of experience in publishing with the latest learning technology and online support. Pearson’s courses and resources are available in print, online and through multi-lingual packages, helping people learn whatever, wherever and however they choose. With more than two billion people around the world learning English, Pearson is at the forefront of the industry. More than 1.5 million teachers and 35 million students in 150 countries use our English language learning resources and tools each year.

SJF Ventures
SJF Ventures invests in high-growth companies creating a healthier, smarter and cleaner future. Our mission is to catalyze the development of highly successful businesses driving lasting, positive changes.

Inherent Group
Inherent Group is an investment firm motivated by a belief in the power of business to address societal challenges. The firm invests in private and public companies whose products and services have positive impact and whose business processes display leading environmental, social and governance practices. Inherent partners over the long-term with exceptional management teams to improve their businesses’ financial and non-financial sustainability.
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