Biography
Mary Francia
CEO, Serowires; Former Partner, Odgers Berndtson and H.I. Executive Consulting
Mary Francia is a distinguished international executive with deep expertise in strategy and governance. She has a proven track record of supporting CEOs and executive teams in Fortune 500 companies, where her leadership in business innovation and strategy drove significant portfolio and R&D transformations, business unit turnarounds, innovation centres, and strategic partnerships. Mary’s extensive experience navigating complex, multicultural environments equips her with a unique ability to drive transformative change in the boardroom.
Mary has held senior leadership roles at major global corporations, including Alcatel-Lucent (now Nokia), Royal Philips Electronics, and Flextronics. She consistently delivered impactful results throughout her career, including operational improvements, new revenue streams, and expansion into new markets. With direct P&L responsibility for business units, territories, and customer accounts, her leadership has driven sustainable growth and profitability, even during uncertain economic times.
Known for her exceptional leadership, creative problem-solving skills, and sharp business acumen, Mary is a trusted advisor in both executive and board settings. Her commitment to board effectiveness and empowerment is reflected in her leadership of training programs and her role as a mentor.
Outside of her corporate roles, Mary has dedicated herself to mentoring the next generation of leaders. Her involvement with The US National Science Foundation and The Georgia Institute of Technology is a testament to her commitment to continuous learning and development. She has pursued certifications in International Corporate Governance, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), and Climate & Biodiversity. Mary serves on the Advisory Board of Competent Boards and the INSEAD US Alum Association and acts as an Ambassador for the INSEAD Directors Network.
During a four-year interlude as a recruiter, Mary leveraged her extensive executive experience, industry insights, and profound knowledge of governance and sustainability to identify and recruit transformational leaders in the Professional Services and Technology sectors.
Mary’s international experiences enrich her ability to navigate diverse cultural landscapes. She is fluent in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. Currently based in Boca Raton, FL, she resides with her husband and is a proud mother of two boys.
