MentorCruise

Designed neuroscience-based coaching/mentorship services, enhancing leadership skills and team performance.

I'm serving as a mentor for emerging leaders and high-performers, offering guidance through the unique challenges of leadership and financial side of the business. My mentorship approach is personalized, focusing on the specific needs and goals of each mentee. I've helped many navigate the complexities of leadership, from effective communication and emotional intelligence to strategic planning and crisis management. 
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with mentees reporting significant improvements in their leadership effectiveness, team engagement, and personal career progression.

Top Finance and Leadership Mentor

Sana Ross

Spearheaded the development and execution of neuroscience-based learning strategies, enhancing decision-making, creativity, and resilience among leaders.
Designed and implemented tailored learning programs ("Resilience and Confidence Building Program" and "Productivity Mastery Program"), significantly boosting team harmony and productivity.
Established and managed key vendor relationships, optimizing budget allocations to maximize ROI on learning initiatives.

Learning and Development Consultant

Finance PM

Led financial strategy and mentoring for startups and tech companies, significantly impacting venture capital success and fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

As CEO & COO of Finance PM, I led a team dedicated to empowering startups and tech companies with the financial tools necessary for success, including comprehensive financial models and valuation. 
My leadership not only steered startups towards significant venture capital but also cultivated a culture of knowledge-sharing and continuous improvement.
I personally mentored startup founders, guiding them through complex financial landscapes and fostering resilience, contributing to a substantial increase in funded projects.

CEO, COO

GrowthUP Accelerator & Venture Fund

Spearheaded financial strategies and leadership coaching, significantly increasing the success rate of accelerated startups through enhanced financial literacy and strategic planning.
My dual focus on financial health and leadership development included one-on-one coaching for startup leaders, enhancing their financial literacy and strategic thinking. 

This comprehensive support system not only ensured financial stability but also equipped leaders with the tools to thrive under pressure, markedly increasing the success rate of our accelerated companies.

Accomplishment: built effective financial management & reporting systems from scratch.

Chief Financial Officer

Agropolis 

In this crucial role, I led our team through significant negotiations with banks and financial institutions, securing financing that was vital for our expansion. 

My leadership extended beyond financial maneuvers; I implemented a program aimed at enhancing team capabilities in financial analysis and presentation, resulting in a restructured $30M loan portfolio. 

This strategic refinancing underpinned the company's stability and growth, showcasing the power of combining financial acumen with people development.

Head of Investor & Bank Relations, Portfolio Manager

STF HOLDING

Leading the finance department, I championed a culture of excellence and accountability, driving both financial and operational improvements. 
My approach included mentoring my team in advanced financial modeling and analysis, and fostering an environment where strategic planning flourished. 

This leadership strategy not only optimized our financial reporting systems but also contributed to our business's agility and growth, ensuring we were well-positioned for future challenges.

Head of Finance And Administration

VIDI

My tenure at VIDI was marked by a focus on securing and managing a $100M investment project portfolio. 
I led the project finance department with a coaching mindset, empowering team members to excel in fundraising and financial management. My guidance and mentoring boosted our department's performance, facilitating the financing of key projects that significantly contributed to VIDI's market expansion and financial strength.

Accomplishments:
Raised funding and managed a $100M portfolio of investment projects: building 5 elite dealership centers and financing its operations.

Deputy CFO, Head of Project Finance Department

Aerosvit Airlines

Steering the bank relations department, my system-based approach was key in raising funding and refinancing our loan portfolio. By fostering a high-performance culture, I ensured our financial engagements were strategic and beneficial for the organization.

Accomplishment:
Raised funding and refinanced loan portfolio ($50M within the Group).

Head of Bank Relations Department

National Bank of Ukraine

Duties:
Monitoring of the Microlending Program in Ukraine. Implementation and regional expansion.
Support the German-Ukrainian Fund (DUF) operations to enable commercial banks to lend to small and medium-sized enterprises.

Accomplishment: built an effective reporting system for commercial banks and started a dashboard for a more clear representation of the Program achievements at the NBU website.

Chief Economist of International Credit Line Project Management Unit

IPC - Internationale Projekt Consult GmbH

Duties:
Implementation and regional expansion of the Ukraine Microlending Program. Consultancy in Microlending (Ukraine, Crimea region) with PrivatBank (Sevastopol) and Avalbank (Simferopol & Sevastopol).
Member of the Bank Loan Committee with the right of veto.

Accomplishment: opened microcredit department at "Aval bank" in Sevastopol in just 2 months.

Microcredit Program Advisor, Head of Crimea Region

Leadership & Performance Coach 🧠 Neuroscience-Driven Advisory & Training ♻️ Entrepreneur, x-CFO 🔔 Follow for Insights

Imagine transforming the landscape of learning and development (L&D) by merging the precision of finance, and systematic approach with the groundbreaking insights of neuroscience. 

That's exactly what I do. With over 20 years of navigating the roles of experienced manager, CFO, leadership coach, and L&D strategist, I've developed a unique approach to empowering leaders and teams, leveraging the best of business acumen and brain science.

My journey from managing multi-million dollar budgets to designing transformative learning programs has taught me the power of strategic, evidence-based learning solutions. 
At the heart of my work is a simple belief: understanding the brain can unlock unparalleled levels of performance and innovation. Through roles that spanned global landscapes, I've turned financial strategies into educational successes and crafted learning initiatives that resonate deeply and deliver real results.
I'm passionate about making learning an integral part of company DNA, driving growth, and fostering high-performance cultures. 
If you're intrigued by the intersection of neuroscience, finance, and L&D, and how it can revolutionize the way we learn and lead, let's connect.

Leading a training at Cisco again today, focusing on soft skills. Lots of role-playing and exercises 😉

P.S. I'm on the hunt for a position in Learning & Development. If you have something - let’s talk 🙂

Why am I the ideal candidate to lead Learning and Development (L&D)?

- Former CFO: A pro at managing budgets and ensuring training investments pay off.
- Experienced Leader and Trainer: Years of helping teams and leaders grow.
- Brain Science Expert: I use scientific methods to make learning effective and engaging.
- Strategic Thinker: I seamlessly integrate training into the overall company strategy.
- Global Experience: Skilled at crafting culturally adaptive training programs.

Here you can find my CV: https://bit.ly/3JabME8

Happy Saturday! 🌞 Today, let’s talk about a superpower in leadership that’s often overlooked: empathy. Did you know that leading with empathy is actually backed by brain science? 


Here’s how it works:

😍   When someone feels truly heard, their brain releases oxytocin, sometimes called the "trust hormone." This builds stronger, more trusting relationships.


🧠    Sharing personal stories can literally synchronize your brain with your listener's, creating a deeper connection and understanding.


👂    In our digital world, giving someone your full attention is rare and valuable. It signals to their brain that they matter, strengthening your bond.



🧡    Create a safe space for your team to share their thoughts and feelings. This not only fosters a sense of belonging but also provides diverse perspectives that can lead to better decisions.


Empathy isn’t just about being nice; it’s a strategic leadership tool that can transform your team’s dynamic and productivity. 


Let’s make empathy the heart of leadership. ❤️ 



#EmpathyInLeadership #BrainScience #ConnectBetter

Today, I'm hosting a "Public Speaking" workshop for Cisco folks in Krakow. Been a while since I've done an in-person session 😁 Being around real people is just awesome! ♥️

For the past couple of years, I've been in a state of transition. 

On one hand, here I am, an experienced manager who's handled large and complex projects, built high-performing teams and managed millions of dollars. 

On the other, I've always been educating, mentoring, and helping people grow. 

The latter has always brought me huge joy. I've been doing L&D and training (both internal and external) since 2004, starting with lecturing on SMB borrower analysis at the Academy at the National Bank of Ukraine. 

Over the last decade, I've covered Team Performance, Public Speaking, Financial Modeling, and various training programs (too many to remember all).

So, what's my point? 

🖍  I've set a big goal for myself—to create a Neuroscience-based Learning & Development program for a company (whether tech-focused or not). 

Not just advising, but building it (ideally - from scratch). 

To build all the processes, tune them, and make learning effective (after all, I'm an ex-CFO) and really impactful; so that leaders aren't just raising employees for competitors but are creating new leaders for their own company (hello, succession plans).

I'm confident I can do this, I know how, and I know what's needed. But, as someone smart once told me, "I'm looking for a needle in a haystack" 🙂 

It doesn't scare me, but yes, I do have to knock on many doors, and HR doesn't like my CV much, always telling me I'm overqualified 😎 

📣  In short, if you're the person who wants to create an awesome L&D in your company, or wants to upgrade what's currently there—let's connect! 

If you know someone who needs this, I'd appreciate the recommendation! 

My CV is here: https://bit.ly/3JabME8  

Have you ever thought about how your mood can actually change how your team works and thinks?



This article dives into the science behind emotional vibes and shares some tips on how you can use your mood to boost your team's energy and results.

Got any stories or tips about how your mood has impacted your team? What’s your secret to keeping the positive vibes flowing? 

Share in the comments! 👇

#Leadership #EmotionalIntelligence #Teamwork #Positivity

Sana Ross on LinkedIn • 6 min read

How Leaders’ Moods Shape Team Success

If you're aiming to upgrade your team from good to exceptional, understanding the brain is your secret weapon. 🧠💡
Sometimes, despite all the right tools and intentions, teams just don’t click the way we envision. It's frustrating, isn't it?


Here's some good news: Neuroscience offers groundbreaking insights that can revolutionize team dynamics. It's about working smarter, with a deep understanding of how our minds work best together.


📘 Dive into my article where I explore the neuroscience of building high-performing teams. 

Learn how leveraging brain science can not only enhance productivity but also foster a more collaborative and innovative environment.

Ready to lead your team to new heights of success? 

↪  Click here to read more: https://lnkd.in/dfPeEMv9

#Leadership #HighPerformingTeams #Neuroscience

Let’s chat about mindfulness. Now, before you scroll thinking this is another "find your inner peace" spiel, hear me out. 


Ever feel like your brain's in a blender on high speed? 

Mindfulness can be like hitting the 'pulse' button. It helps calm the chaos, making room for clearer thoughts and decisions.


As leaders, our to-do lists are scarier than my attempts at quarantine sourdough. Mindfulness teaches us the art of the "Not Now" list, helping us prioritize what truly matters. 


Spoiler: It’s not answering every email within five seconds.


Mindfulness isn’t about being perfect. It teaches us to laugh at our mistakes, learn, and move on.


Imagine meetings where everyone is actually present, not just planning their lunch. Mindfulness can help make this dream a reality, leading to more productive and shorter meetings. 


Your stomach (and team) will thank you.


So, as we wrap up the weekend, consider giving mindfulness a shot. It might just make your leadership style surprisingly effective.


Let's make next week about mindful leadership. 
Because if we're going to lead, let's do it like we mean it — with focus, clarity, and maybe a bit of fun. 🌟 




#MindfulLeadership #FocusAndFun #SundayReflections


🚀 Excited about the future of leading teams? 
      Discover strategies, backed by the latest neuroscience research, that are revolutionizing the way we lead, learn, and grow. 

💡 Get ahead of the curve and learn how to leverage these trends to supercharge your leadership journey and inspire your team to new heights of excellence. 



#LeadershipDevelopment #FutureTrends #NeuroscienceInLeadership #VRTraining 

Sana Ross on LinkedIn • 10 min read

The Top 10 Leadership Development Trends For 2024 (and beyond)

🚀 I’ve been on a mentoring journey with MentorCruise for over a year (on and off) and I loved it with all of my heart! So I keep on going… 😁 

With my extensive background in finance and leadership I’m here to guide Founders, Aspiring Managers and Future Leaders through the unique challenges they face.

For Founders:
📍    Financial Strategy Development: I’ll help you navigate the complexities of securing funding and strategic budget management with tailored financial strategies. Whether it’s crafting a compelling narrative for investors or optimizing your financial model, I’m here to turn your financial challenges into successes.

📍    Enhancing Team Dynamics: Discover how neuroscience can unlock your team’s potential. Struggling with innovation or team adaptability? Let’s apply brain-based techniques to foster a creative and resilient team environment.



For Aspiring Managers and Future Leaders:
📍    Neuroscience-driven Leadership: Elevate your leadership with neuroscience. If decision fatigue or stress management is holding you back, I’ll introduce methods to sharpen your decision-making and enhance your leadership resilience.

📍    Strategic Financial Management: Step confidently into managing budgets and financial planning. From deciphering financial statements to strategic allocation, I’ll guide you through the financial aspects essential for effective leadership.

Whether you're laying the foundation for a startup or stepping into a leadership role, the journey is filled with learning opportunities. I’m here to share insights from my own experiences.


🌟 Let’s connect, learn, and grow together. Your journey towards innovation, resilience, and leadership excellence starts here. 🌟


#Leadership #Finance #Neuroscience #StartupFounders #FutureLeaders #Mentorship #Innovation

mentorcruise.com • 2 min read

Visit Sana (Snizhana) Ross on MentorCruise

Happy Monday, everyone! 🌞  Here's a quick guide to supercharge your morning routine and set the tone for a productive week:


☀☀☀  Natural light helps reset your internal clock and reduces the sleep hormone melatonin. Start your day by opening the curtains or taking a short walk outside to tell your brain it’s time to wake up and get going.


🥚 🥑   Neuroscience shows that the brain needs a good mix of protein, fats, and minimal sugar to function optimally. Choose a breakfast that fuels your brain without spiking your blood sugar, like eggs and avocados.


📌 📆    Spend a few minutes each morning setting a clear, achievable goal for the day. This helps activate your prefrontal cortex, enhancing focus and decision-making throughout the day.


🧘‍♂️ 🧘‍♀️    Even a short period of meditation can increase your brain’s gray matter, which is involved in muscle control and sensory perception such as seeing and hearing. Meditation reduces stress and improves concentration.


🏃‍♀️ 🏊‍♂️    Physical activity pumps blood to your brain, which sharpens your awareness and prepares you for mental stresses. It doesn’t have to be intense; even a short stretch or brisk walk can do wonders.


Give it a try and let me know how these tips work out for you. What does your morning routine look like?

Let’s kick off the week by cracking the code of hybrid leadership. With teams spread out from offices to living rooms, leading effectively means getting creative and adaptable. 

Here’s how:

💢    Use every tool in your magic kit - emails, video calls, instant messages. The trick? Keep messages clear and your virtual door always open.

💢    Trust + Flexibility = Productivity! Show your team you trust them. Set clear goals, then let them find their best way to reach them. It’s like choosing your adventure book, but for work.

💢    Create spaces for virtual coffees or casual chats. It’s about keeping the team vibe alive, even if you’re all in different places.

💢    Make sure everyone has a seat at the table, even if it’s a virtual one. Encourage everyone to share ideas and celebrate wins together, no matter where they are.

Embracing these tips can turn the challenge of hybrid leadership into your superpower. 

Let’s navigate this new work frontier together, creating thriving teams everywhere and anywhere.

What’s your go-to strategy for leading a hybrid team? Drop your wisdom below! 



#HybridWork #LeadershipHacks #MondayMotivation

Ever wondered how the latest brain science can supercharge learning for your seasoned team members? 

Discover how tailored, brain-friendly strategies not only boost job performance but also ignite a culture of continuous growth and innovation. 

How does Learning & Development in your company help older employees grow and evolve?

Sana Ross on LinkedIn • 8 min read

Older, Wiser, and Ready to Learn: A Neuroscience Makeover for Adult Learning

🚀🧠 Are you leveraging the latest science to supercharge your leadership skills?

Transitioning into a leadership role comes with its unique set of challenges, but what if I told you that neuroscience, behavioral science, and psychology hold the keys to unlocking your full potential as a manager?


In my newest article, I explore groundbreaking strategies that go beyond traditional leadership advice, providing you with a blueprint to:

💡   Harness neuroplasticity to enhance your decision-making skills.
💡   Implement behavioral science techniques to boost team productivity effortlessly.
💡   Use psychological insights to foster resilience and innovation within your team.

Curious to learn how these insights can be applied practically to elevate your leadership? 

Check out my article and share it with your network!


#LeadershipDevelopment #Neuroscience #BehavioralScience #ManagementTips 

Sana Ross on LinkedIn • 7 min read

From Aspiring to Leading: Scientific Tips for New Managers

You’re a leader. You want to inspire your team. You want great results.
But something's off.


Your usual ways don’t work. The team feels disconnected.


Here’s a secret:
Use brain science.
It shows how to really connect with your team.

When you lead based on how brains work, everyone wins.

📘 Want to lead better?
Read how in my latest article.

sanaross.com • 2 min read

Neuroscience Insights Into Effective Leadership Styles

Think Smarter About Money: Brain Tips for Financial Choices



Happy Friday, everyone! 🎉 


As we wrap up the week, let's dive into something we all think about: making smart money moves. 


Did you know your brain plays a huge part in how you handle finances? 


Here's how to use that to your advantage:

🤩   Our brains often want instant gratification. Taking a moment to think about a purchase can help you decide if it’s really worth it.


⭐️   Just like in other areas of life, clear goals can help your brain focus on what’s important, making it easier to save and invest wisely.


😻   Visualization isn’t just for athletes. Imagine reaching your financial goals. This mental picture can motivate your brain to make it happen.



📖   Keep your financial knowledge fresh. Your brain loves to learn, and staying informed can lead to better financial decisions.


This weekend, why not take a little time to think about your financial health? 


A few minutes of planning and learning can set you up for a wealthier future.



Here’s to making smart, brain-friendly financial choices! 💰🧠 



#FinancialFitness #SmartMoneyMoves #BrainTips

🧠✨ Dive into how groundbreaking neuroscience principles are not just about understanding the brain, but also about reshaping our approach to sustainable technology.

In this article, we explore the potent intersection between neuroscience and tech innovation, revealing how neural insights are pivotal in driving environmentally friendly solutions that are not only effective but also universally adaptable.

🌍 As we stand at the crossroads of technology and sustainability, understanding the human brain's response to change and innovation can lead us to more sustainable practices that benefit our planet and future generations.

https://lnkd.in/gcuPGmDz 

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