Sandra Mosquera is a recognized leader in platform product management, known for her strategic insight and relentless drive. A staunch advocate for non-traditional education, Sandra champions the values of courage and perseverance in overcoming professional challenges, including mastering complex new skills and battling impostor syndrome. Her extensive experience in developing innovative platform products has made her a pivotal figure in crafting inclusive and forward-thinking tech environments. Sandra's commitment to excellence and teamwork is at the core of her professional ethos, inspiring and guiding her peers. A believer in the power of community, she is deeply committed to uplifting others, particularly from her home region of El Chocó, Colombia, an area often overlooked. Sandra is dedicated to empowering emerging talents with the tools and insights they need to excel in today’s dynamic markets, driven by her conviction that good people can create great change.
Leadership is more than a role for me; it’s a commitment to inspire change and foster innovation. As a world-renowned platform product manager, I bring a rich tech background and an MBA to strategically drive industry advancements. My expertise lies in developing technologies that empower and innovate, ensuring that every project delivers substantial value.
My journey extends beyond technology. I serve on the boards of the Festival of the Diaspora and Independence Charter School in Philadelphia, where I apply my leadership to promote cultural pride and advance educational excellence. These roles allow me to support and celebrate the diverse heritage of the Afro-Diaspora, as well as to craft educational strategies that equip young minds for a future in innovation.
Driven by a belief in limitless potential, I am dedicated to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities that turn aspirations into achievements. My path reflects a commitment to excellence, leadership, and the transformative power of technology and education.
Roots: A Glimpse into My Early Life in Colombia
Born in Colombia, the home of exquisite coffee, shimmering emeralds, and blossoming Valentines, I spent my formative years in Quibdó, nestled within the Chocó rainforest. The heart of this rainforest is rich in biodiversity but unfortunately struggles with poverty. It's a paradox - despite being one of the rainiest places globally, my hometown often grappled with basic amenities like clean drinking water.
Post high school, my mother, with immense sacrifices, enabled me to journey to England, enriching me with English language skills. Back in Colombia, I got a coveted spot at the University of Antioquia's Law School. However, challenges emerged, ranging from a looming global economic downturn to personal experiences like facing racism on my very first day at the university. These challenges catalyzed my decision, with my family's support, to embark on a new adventure to the USA.
The Tech Journey: From Developer to Executive
Hello! I’m Sandra Mosquera, a globally recognized leader in platform product management at JP Morgan Chase. My career began in the trenches of software development, where I honed my technical skills before ascending to strategic leadership roles. With a solid foundation in technology and a relentless drive for excellence, I quickly distinguished myself in the tech world.
My leadership journey took off at Comcast, where I spearheaded initiatives that significantly improved our product offerings, boosting efficiency and customer satisfaction. This role was a springboard that brought me back to JP Morgan Chase, where I now lead large-scale projects that enhance and modernize our services, serving thousands of users worldwide. My work not only increases system capacity and efficiency but also sets industry standards for innovation and reliability.
Today, as a Senior Vice President, I influence the global tech landscape by leading transformative projects and mentoring future leaders. My career is a testament to the power of combining deep technical expertise with visionary leadership to drive substantial change in the tech industry.
My American Dream: College and Challenges in the USA
In 2008, I left law school in Colombia and stepped into a new life in Philadelphia. Speaking little English and with no local support, I began working in the fast food industry and as a waitress. These jobs taught me resilience and the critical importance of communication. Determined to improve and succeed, I pursued an associate’s degree in Paralegal Studies at the Community College of Philadelphia, pushing through language barriers and cultural shifts.
Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, I soon founded a business that served the Latino community in North Philadelphia. This venture not only connected me with my roots but also sharpened my business skills. Yet, my ambition to build a stable and impactful career led me back to the academic path. I enrolled in night classes at Villanova University, earning a bachelor's in Information Systems. After graduation, despite having no previous experience in Java, I took a leap into a Java Developer role, challenging myself to master new skills from scratch.
It was during my time as a software developer that I encountered Agile methodologies. This was a revelation, showing me how efficient and streamlined processes could significantly overcome developmental hurdles. Each experience along this journey has shaped me into a leader in tech, committed to guiding and inspiring others through their professional and personal challenges.
Leadership & Advocacy: Making a Difference
Throughout my career, my leadership has been characterized by a commitment to fostering growth and opportunities. As a proud Afro-Latina in the tech industry, I've focused on creating supportive environments and removing obstacles, enabling all professionals to reach their full potential. My efforts include mentoring, policy development, and cultivating workplaces where every team member can excel.
Beyond the corporate setting, I have taken a leading role in community-driven initiatives. I founded the Philadelphia chapter of Latinas in Tech to support and enhance career pathways for women in technology. Additionally, my positions on the boards of the Festival of the Diaspora and the Independence Charter School allow me to contribute to cultural and educational projects that benefit underrepresented communities.
Looking forward, I am excited about my involvement with Nexo, a new venture aimed at transforming support mechanisms for social entrepreneurs. This initiative is focused on creating sustainable partnerships and programs that provide necessary resources to innovators in Latin America, enabling them to overcome challenges and succeed.
