Welcome back to our series of Employee Spotlights, which is inspired by a common content idea across various types of communities.
Community Spotlights highlight one member of the community and allow other members to get to know them a bit better, which is exactly what we’re aiming for as well.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on May, who plays a key role in the business and IT operations at Standing on Giants. Let’s learn more about her journey, experiences, and favorite things. As she is based in California we are very happy that she made time for us at 7 in the morning for this.
Q: May, can you tell us a bit about your role at Standing on Giants and what a typical day looks like for you?
A: I’m the Business and IT Operations Lead, which means I handle a bit of everything, from supporting the technical team to improving our IT policies and ensuring that everyone follows the policies we’ve set. No two days are alike! Recently, I’ve been focusing on reviewing and improving our risk management process across the company, which keeps me on my toes!
Q: You’ve been described as a ‘Swiss army knife’ at Standing on Giants, which now seems absolutely accurate with all the things you do. How did you come to join the company?
A: I moved to the UK in 2019 and needed a job. I had experience as a community manager, and Standing on Giants was looking for someone who speaks Portuguese. It felt like a great fit, and a friend recommended I apply. I still remember the exact date I started—March 4, 2019! I was so nervous because it was my first job abroad, and I had to speak English all the time. Oh, and I’m originally from São Paulo, Brazil—the busiest city in South America!
Q: A lot has happened since then and you definitely lost your nervousness. What’s a key skill you’ve developed while working at Standing on Giants?
A: Confidence, for sure. When I first started, I was really nervous about speaking in meetings because English isn’t my first language. Now, I lead meetings with clients and technical teams without hesitation. This company has helped me grow so much in that area.
Q: What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
A: I’d say it’s the constant learning. I’m always facing new challenges, and that keeps me growing. From starting as a community manager to moving into tech and now operations, I’ve picked up so many skills. But above all, it’s the people here who make it so rewarding. The support I’ve received at Standing on Giants is unmatched.
Q: Is there a specific project you’re particularly proud of?
A: One of my proudest moments was the launch of the Benenden community. It was a massive project with a lot of challenges, but our team was incredible. Everyone came together, and it was a real “let’s do this” atmosphere. I’m proud of not just the outcome, but the teamwork and camaraderie that went into it.
Q: How do you stay motivated during challenging projects or tight deadlines?
A: I have this mindset that for every problem, there’s a solution. My grandmother used to say, “The only thing we can’t fix is death.” That’s how I approach challenges—focus on finding solutions rather than dwelling on the problem. That keeps me going, no matter how tough things get.
Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
A: Traveling! I love exploring new places and, of course, trying new food along the way. When I’m not traveling, I’m taking pictures or watching films. I used to work as a film publicist in Brazil for 10 years, so cinema is still a big passion of mine.
Q: Speaking of films, what are your all-time favorites?
A: I love Casablanca, Sunset Blv. and The Godfather. Those are classics I can always rewatch. And right now, I’d recommend Over the Garden Wall, an animated miniseries perfect for this time of year—it’s a little quirky, cute, and spooky all at once.
Q: And then regarding traveling —what’s a place you’ve always wanted to travel to?
A: I’ve never been to Mexico, and I’m dying to go to Oaxaca. I’m planning to visit a few times next year since I’m living closer now in the US!
Q: Now last question: If you could have dinner with any three people, dead or alive, who would you choose?
A: I’d love to sit down with Johnny Cash, Elizabeth Taylor, and my great-grandfather. It’d be such an interesting mix of personalities! I’d probably just order food though—I’d be too busy talking to cook!
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