5 minutes with…Samina Azam, EA at CCEP

Ahead of the next PA Profile in the upcoming July/August issue of PA Life, Jade Burke sits down with Samina Azam, EA at Coca-Cola European Partners (CCEP), to find out who inspires her and what jam gets her on the dancefloor.

What do you do?
Anticipate my bosses needs and ensure she has a fluid day. I support the vice president (VP) of talent acquisition, management and development at Coca-Cola European Partners (CCEP). My VP travels regularly, so creating and clearly sharing detailed travel plans and itineraries are a fixed occurrence.

The best goal you’ve achieved?
Raising my two wonderful sons. My sons are grown up now, but work-life balance has always been at the top of my agenda. I have managed an admirable professional career while raising my family.

What’s been your biggest setback?
Cultural prejudice. My experiences have taught me to take control of my own path. I alone have the power to grow and have new experiences and learnings. I do not belong to any one category or box. I have earned my place at the podium through my sheer determination, hard work, focus and grit. I am a woman who wears so many different hats and am proud of each one them, regardless of their shape or colour.

What song gets you up on the dance floor?
Maroon 5 – Sugar.

You’re stranded on a desert island – what’s the one thing you couldn’t live without?
Tea!

Who inspires you?
Women from challenging backgrounds and adversity who rise strong and stand tall.

You can find out more about Samina Azam in the upcoming July/August 2018 issue of PA Life, where she features as our PA Profile star, which will hit desks July 30.