Leading Circular Economy & Sustainable Innovations for BA Laundry, Andrea believes that true growth comes from embracing change and staying open to new perspectives.
Andrea Caputo’s career is defined by a fearless approach to challenges- from taking on new roles, earning an MBA during the pandemic, and transforming a gig into a real career, Andrea’s story shows how embracing change and staying open to new perspectives can fuel both personal growth and industry leadership.
You head up Circular Economy & Sustainable Innovations for Business Area Laundry – can you tell us what does your job title entail? Tell us more about what you do!
In my current role, I lead the study, feasibility assessment, and implementation of circular economy practices within BA Laundry – so looking at ways we can minimize waste while maximizing the use of our current resources. In BA Laundry that means, for instance, exploring the potential to extend our product’s lifecycle and drive sustainability and innovation within our operations.
You joined Electrolux Professional Group in 2016 – what experience did you bring?
While I was studying, I started working in the family business— a small company that operated as a Laundry Service Partner for Electrolux Professional. I started from the ground up as a trainee service technician, but with the long-term vision of eventually managing the business. My family encouraged me to gain some hands-on experience across all departments, including technical service, logistics, accounting, and sales. This comprehensive exposure proved invaluable in shaping my entrepreneurial mindset and laid a strong foundation for my future career.
I’ve always been motivated by a genuine interest in connecting with people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures, and having gradually gained experience and appreciation for professional laundry solutions, I felt fortunate to have the opportunity to join Electrolux Professional and dedicate myself to an industry I had grown to love.
What route did you take in terms of studies and jobs to where you are today?
I initially studied IT, but life took me in a different direction! I joined Electrolux Professional as Customer Care Manager for Middle East & Africa (MEA) and three years later, I was promoted to Head of Sales for North Middle East & Africa. At the time, I was travelling extensively across the region, building strong relationships and gaining deep understanding of how the market works – but when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, everything changed. With travel restrictions in place, I found myself managing my responsibilities remotely, which unexpectedly provided me with extra time that I decided to invest in personal and professional growth by enrolling in a distance-learning MBA program. I graduated in the summer of 2023.
Pursuing an MBA is a significant investment, not only in financial terms but also in time—I spent 10 to 14 hours each week on my studies over a 3-year period- but I would strongly recommend it to anyone looking to advance their career in management. The academic rigor and strategic knowledge that I gained through this experience truly shaped my perspective and approach. Without the MBA, I wouldn’t have the foundation needed to lead my role today.
What do you love about the role?
What I love most about my current role is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by driving the development of solutions that keep our company at the forefront of sustainability. Working on sustainable innovations allows us to think beyond traditional business boundaries—considering not only economic value but also the environmental and social dimensions. It’s incredibly rewarding to contribute to initiatives that shape a more responsible and future-ready industry.
And, on the other hand, what are the biggest challenges?
One of the biggest challenges in my current role is coordinating across multiple departments—purchasing, logistics, operations, R&D, product management, sales, business development, finance and strategy. Ensuring alignment and maintaining momentum requires constant communication and a collaborative mindset.
Another challenge is managing a wide range of tasks—from hands-on operational work to complex strategic projects like building business cases. Shifting between tactical and strategic thinking is demanding but it’s also what keeps the role dynamic and engaging.
What advice would you give to people wanting to work in a position like yours?
My career has taught me that becoming an expert in your field—while also gaining experience across different departments—gives you a broader, more strategic perspective. This combination often makes the difference when navigating complex challenges. I strongly believe in the value of starting from the ground up and gradually building the skills and knowledge needed to take on roles with greater responsibility. It’s a long-term journey, but one that fosters resilience, adaptability, and a deep understanding of how a business truly operates.
How would you like to develop further in your role or potentially do something completely different?
I’m driven by curiosity and a desire to continuously grow—both personally and professionally. I actively seek opportunities that challenge me, push me beyond my comfort zone, and allow me to learn something new. Whether it’s deepening my impact in my current role or exploring a completely different path, I believe growth comes from embracing change and staying open to new perspectives.
I also believe that effective leadership requires adaptability: a capable manager should be able to step into any department, understand its dynamics, and deliver value. This kind of flexibility fosters trust among teams and sharpens our ability to think strategically and adapt —qualities that are more important than ever in a rapidly changing business world.
Tell us about your experience of working in a multinational environment and the opportunities that exist within the company?
Working in a multinational environment has significantly broadened my perspective on global business dynamics and cultural diversity. Across the various roles I’ve held, I’ve had the privilege of traveling extensively, developing meaningful relationships with both customers and colleagues from different regions. These experiences have enriched my professional network and deepened my understanding of how different markets operate and how people think and collaborate across cultures.
Why choose to work at Electrolux Professional Group?
Electrolux Professional Group offers a unique environment where personal growth and career development go hand in hand. It’s a place where you’re encouraged to challenge yourself, supported by a culture of safety, trust, and continuous learning.
The human aspect of the company is just as important to me: I’ve built strong bonds with colleagues throughout the years – many of whom I’m now grateful to call friends. This genuine sense of connection and shared purpose transforms the workplace into an environment that is not only productive, but also genuinely rewarding and fulfilling.
Do you aspire to pursue a career similar to Andrea´s? Check out our global career site