Martina Taddei

Martina is a Sales Account Manager at AbBaltis. She began her career with an internship at AbBaltis before securing a full-time role, later earning a promotion in 2024. 

Her work involves managing client relationships, overseeing product demand, and mentoring new team members. 

Tell us about your career path since graduation.

I started my career at AbBaltis in the summer of 2023, before graduating. What began as a Technical Sales Executive Internship quickly evolved into a full-time role, and in 2024, I was promoted to Sales Account Manager. While I had previous work experience, AbBaltis was the first company that truly shaped my career, providing me with the foundation and growth opportunities that set me on my professional path.

What does a typical work day look like for you?

At AbBaltis, my role involves daily interactions with customers, ensuring their projects run smoothly, and collaborating with teams across product testing and logistics to meet demand efficiently. Managing accounts while maintaining strong client relationships is a key part of my job.

Beyond sales, I also train and mentor new Technical Sales Executives, which keeps me actively involved in company processes and aligned with its objectives. Since I engage with professionals in the biotechnology field, I make it a point to stay updated on industry trends and market demands. This allows me to navigate challenges effectively and provide informed support to our clients.

Can you share a professional highlight from your career so far?

One of my biggest professional highlights was achieving double my monthly sales target. It was a great moment that reinforced my confidence and capabilities. Knowing that my efforts could drive those results made me feel empowered and motivated to keep pushing my limits. Achievements like these remind me of the impact I can make and fuel my drive for continuous growth.

How did your time at Kent help you achieve your current career?

Kent always maintained a strategic approach to career development, and I truly appreciated the effort of the employability team. The sessions designed for students provided valuable insights into the job market, helping us navigate the transition from university to the professional world, an aspect that isn’t always widely discussed.

The guidance from the career service, along with insights from alumni and industry guests, was invaluable. Their input not only broadened my perspective but also played a crucial role in shaping my approach to job hunting.

What advice would you give to our current/prospective students who are looking to get into the same line of work?

Work hard, be organised and structured, visualise your goals and break your tasks in attainable chunks. Organisation is really key in sales, as well as developing soft skills like active listening and observing, understanding people’s needs. Never ever get discouraged, put the right actions in place even when they do not bring the results you expect. Success does not happen overnight, it is built from day 0. You would not expect a tree to grow out of a seed you planted the day before, would you?

Lastly, believe in yourself and exercise assertiveness, be kind but give direction.

Did you get involved in any extracurricular activities as a student?

I attended as many events of the employability scheme as I could. I was very intrinsically motivated to land a job after graduation, hence I actively took notes and absorbed insights about the job market in every way I could.

Do you have a favourite memory from your time at Kent?

I don’t have one favourite memory, as I keep multiple in my heart. I cherished every moment with the several international friends I met along the way! The people with whom I had meaningful talks about my future, the ones I spent quality time with, they truly meaningfully contributed to a wonderful time at Kent.

Is there anything you would do differently if you could repeat your time at Kent?

Looking back, I would not change a single thing of my experience at Kent. I would remake every single decision, I do not regret taking part in any event, or any choice made. The actions I took every day contributed to landing me the job I have now and I am quite content with what I did!

Are you still in touch with other Kent alumni or academics?

Yes I am, it is always nice to catch up and see where everyone’s ended.

What are your future ambitions?

While I’m not entirely sure where life will take me, I am committed to growing my expertise to the point where I become a key reference in my company and industry. Thinking big, I aspire to play a significant role in decision-making and continue exploring new opportunities to make my impact.