This is the first of a blog series where we’ll be showcasing some of the unique and talented people from our team. You can follow the “Life at Nutanix” tag to learn more about our team, culture, and daily life at Nutanix.
We’re kicking off the series by sitting down virtually with Ximena Castillo, a Senior Deal Desk Analyst based in Mexico City, Mexico. We talked about what led her to Nutanix, how she’s adjusting to working remotely due to COVID-19, and what she’s looking forward to in the year ahead.
What makes Ximena special? Her colleague Jorge says, “Her dedication and growth. She has a great philosophy of life to travel to feed her soul.” Her manager, Brenden adds, “She excels in owning any project or activity. She lives our values and is humble with a good sense of humor. She is a great partner for sales.” Here’s our conversation with Ximena.
When did you join Nutanix?
I joined in 2018. I just celebrated two years with Nutanix this November.
Before Nutanix, I worked for another company for almost 5 years. I was working and pursuing my Masters degree, but I wanted to travel. So, I quit my job, sold my car and stopped my studies to travel for a year and a half. I spent time in Miami, California, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Spain, Italy, Turkey, and Prague.
When I returned to Mexico City, I started to look for work and found Nutanix. I noticed the company was headquartered in San Jose, California where some of my family lives.
Ximena in Rome, Italy at the Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II
Tell us about your role.
I started as Sales Quote Support in 2018. A year later I was promoted to Senior Deal Desk Analyst. My team supports quote approvals for our sales team in the Americas. I handle three regions. My team analyzes deals and provides guidance to sales on deal structure. We create quotes, communicate with sales finance and sales management, and help with negotiations.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I like my work and Nutanix as a whole. I have a good work-life balance, which is important to me. In my previous company there was less flexibility.
I also have a really great team. I’m in Mexico CIty and my other teammates are in Argentina, Virginia, and California. We come from different backgrounds and have fun together. We can all express ourselves.
I am 6 months pregnant with my first child! I requested time off for maternity leave and my manager was very supportive. I really appreciate that so I can enjoy time with my baby girl.
Ximena on her travels in Chiang Mai, Thailand
How has your work shifted with the pandemic and moving to working from home?
I used to go to the office three days a week and work from home the other days because traffic is insane in Mexico City. When COVID started and we moved to working remotely, I was excited about not having to commute. I thought it would only be a month or two, but after a few months it was harder. I miss socializing with people.
Because we’re all working from home, I actually think I work more. At first I worked longer hours and was overwhelmed with meetings. I talked to my manager and he suggested blocking times on my calendar for lunch and doing work so I could take care of myself. I also set limits by logging off at a certain time each day, which has helped.
Tell us about the team and office in Mexico City.
Two months after I joined Nutanix we opened our Mexico City office. At first it was only a handful of people. Then, we began to hire and now, a year and a half later, we have about 60 people in Mexico City.
Some of the Mexico City team
Do you miss anything about the office?
I miss seeing teammates and socializing. I still talk to my colleagues even though we’re not in the office together right now. I miss eating lunch together and taking turns picking out the office music.
Tell us about your work from home setup.
At first I was working from my kitchen, but my back started killing me so I got a desk and monitor set up in my living room. I am more comfortable now and have made the transition to working more regularly from home. I also stand up and take walks if I need a break.
Any advice on how to keep a positive outlook when times get tough?
Don’t take things too seriously. Life can get hard but it’s all about your mentality.
What is your favorite Nutanix culture principle?
Get comfortable being uncomfortable. I have a sticker on my computer to remind me. To me, it means not being afraid of making mistakes. For example, if I say the wrong word in English, knowing it will be okay because of my supportive and understanding colleagues.
What makes someone successful at Nutanix?
Be okay with change. If you’re used to processes and guidelines and doing the same things over and over, this is not the place for you. Things here move fast and shift. Sometimes it can be hard to keep up. To be successful, you need to be okay with that.
Is there a project or accomplishment you’re most proud of from your time at Nutanix?
Yes! I built a deal desk website to help our team organize all of our resources in one place. We had a ton of resources, but they were all over the place. I created a website for us to house all of our processes, contracts, and guidelines in one place. It took several months and was fun to work on and see the finished product.
What are you looking forward to in 2021?
I am expecting my baby girl in February—my first child. I’m grateful that the company has given me 5 months maternity leave to enjoy time with my daughter.
I also hope to be able to travel when the COVID situation is better. The first place I’d go is to California to see my family. Then, I’d go to the beach—maybe Miami or Hawaii.
Thanks to Ximena for talking with us. To learn more about our team and culture, visit our Careers page.
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