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Ivan Iannaccone – Meet the Mentor

With nearly 20 years in infrastructure, I’ve built storage systems, developed SSDs like the AWS Nitro SSD, and delivered full-stack software. My experience spans support, product management, UX, and engineering. At Amazon and Google, I led product and UX teams, managing large budgets and billion-dollar revenues. Passionate about problem-solving, strategic decisions, fostering talent for growth.
Ivan Iannaccone

Director of Product, UX and Data, Amazon, Google, AWS

Why did you decide to become a mentor?

Mentorship, to me, is a meaningful way to give back to the community. Especially in product management, I’ve noticed that leadership guidance and resources are often scarce outside of the Bay Area and the USA. I feel fortunate in my career journey and have seen firsthand how sharing mental models, best practices, and lessons from my own failures can empower my mentees to grow and navigate their own career paths successfully.

How did you get your career start?

I started working at a young age, balancing jobs while still in university. I valued independence and embraced the opportunity to explore different paths. Over the years, I moved across cities, countries, and eventually continents, always seeking challenges and pushing myself to grow by turning discomfort into a source of strength and adaptability. Along the way, I’ve learned that career progression is more like navigating a jungle gym than climbing a straight ladder—it’s about exploring different directions, taking risks, and finding growth in unexpected places.

What do mentees usually come to you for?

I guide individuals on optimizing their time and improving organization to maximize efficiency and focus. I help them think strategically about career progression, offering insights on setting goals and navigating opportunities. Additionally, I provide support in tackling interview questions, ensuring they communicate their strengths and expertise effectively. For those in product management, I focus on shaping their approach to product vision and strategy, helping them create impactful solutions and align their work with broader business goals. My aim is to equip them with tools and frameworks that drive both personal and professional growth, fostering long-term success.

What's been your favourite mentorship success story so far?

Witnessing people achieve the goals we set at the beginning of our sessions and secure new jobs is incredibly fulfilling. One of my favorite mentorship success stories is seeing mentees who felt stuck in their previous roles overcome their challenges, gain clarity, and build confidence. Watching them grow into new opportunities, thrive in impactful roles, and ultimately achieve their career aspirations has been deeply rewarding and reinforces the value of mentorship.

What are you getting out of being a mentor?

As a mentor, I feel a profound sense of fulfillment knowing that sharing my experiences can make a meaningful difference in someone else's life. Helping others navigate their career journeys, overcome challenges, and gain the clarity and confidence needed to make impactful decisions is incredibly rewarding. It not only inspires my mentees but also enriches my own perspective, reinforcing the importance of shared knowledge, growth, and connection.

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