Angela DiTommaso is a People and Org (P&O) team member in our Ohio office. She joined Zulily as an office coordinator, became an administrative assistant, and recently started a new role as Facilities Talent Acquisition Coordinator. We’ve invited Angela, a Leading with Purpose award winner, to share how her work makes an impact on the business and her local community.

Tell us about your career journey so far.

When I started at Zulily in 2018, I supported the Facilities team. This role was completely different for me because I came from the salon industry. Next, I became the administrative assistant for the Customer Service and Experience (CS&E) team, and I’ve been in my new role with our P&O team since February. My managers inspired me to develop professionally and encouraged me to become the team member I am today. All along, I’ve wanted to make an impact here a Zulily, doing what I love to do—which is giving back to our community.

What’s your favorite thing about your experience at Zulily?

Zulily people are a favorite part of my job. I love how team members genuinely support each other here and embrace collaboration daily. As an administrative assistant, I felt like my desk was the “one-stop shop” for everything and I was given the opportunity to drive volunteer efforts for my location. Being the point person for the office and driving volunteerism was amazing, because I love supporting others and I’m a huge community advocate. I truly felt I could be my authentic self and contribute to Zulily in a way I am most passionate about.

Which Zulily Principle resonates most with you and why?

Embrace the Future, because Zulily is always changing and evolving! I’ve have gotten into the habit of focusing on one of our principles every week. This week, I’m embracing Drive Progress. I’m trying to figure out which processes need improvement and how to get all stakeholders on the same page to focus on what matters. I feel like I’m successful here because I’m open to change and trying new things that are in the best interest of Zulily and our team members.

Congratulations on your recent Leading with Purpose award! Can you share more about why you were nominated?

I was so caught by surprise when I learned I was nominated and won! My former manager nominated me for my work as office coordinator, supporting the Gahanna Ohio Business Office transition. That project required getting rid of everything in the offices like supplies, equipment, office furniture and unused sample products. I saw this as an opportunity to make a positive impact and suggested, instead of throwing the things away, let’s donate it to our community. Giving back on a larger scale is what inspired me throughout that project.

Do you have any tips for others who want to make a difference?

There are so many people in our local communities who need our help. And Zulily is willing to support and contribute to team member initiatives! My advice is to discuss social causes that interest you with your team, find out what you can work on together, then search out relevant non-profits. Once you’ve found an organization, work with your leaders to figure out how you and your team can make a difference by partnering with them.

That’s great! How else can team members get involved?

We are so fortunate to be part of a company that will support non-profits we are passionate about as individuals. Even if you or your team can’t launch an initiative, you can still make a difference though our giving program. You can volunteer and donate your time or make an automated and recurring donation to your favorite nonprofit through our Partners in Giving program. Zulily will even match your donations!

Before we wrap up, any fun facts people may not know about you?

I’ve traveled to many places—Italy, Germany, and Spain are just a few. I feel everyone should get out and travel when things become safe again because it’s amazing to see how people in different countries live their daily lives. Munich, Germany was one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited yet. Not only were the people pleasant, but the food was unbelievably fresh. Those who know me, know I’m a huge foodie! Munich was influential to me because of the architecture and history, it also helps there are over 60 beautiful beer gardens around the city. Before Covid, I was set to travel to Japan for a wedding which was postponed. My friends and I are on standby and ready to take this trip. Other places on my list are Africa, Iceland, Australia, and Russia.