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2020 Connect Corporate 15 Over 50: Leonora Valvo

Leonora Valvo is the co-founder and CEO of Swoogo. She is is based in Warren, Rhode Island.

Cc 15 50 Valvo

Leonora Valvo describes herself as a leader, mentor and a mom. Learn more about her.

What I do: As the CEO of a young company, my days move between strategy, leadership, management and tactics. I have a team of six directors with whom I work very closely. I influence sales, oversee marketing, collaborate with product and run finance.

How I got here: I have meandered through the industry working at an airline, in a corporate travel department, founded six companies including a consulting company, a travel management company, an events agency and three event technology companies. I have been creating and operating my own companies since the 1990s.

Impressive stats: Venture capital invests about $100 billion per year, with only 2.2% of that invested in female founders. Having raised over $20 million in venture capital, I proud to be in that elite group of women who have raised those funds.

Specific improvement I’ve made:  I believe we have brought to the industry a human approach to buying software. Our commitment to providing incredible quality, honest sales promises, world class customer service and customer collaborative development is a kinder, more industry friendly approach. As a virtual company we are also contributing to a commitment to a lower carbon footprint.

What I do outside of work: I love to help other startups! I am on the Venture Mentoring Service, mentoring teams; I am co-chair of the Warren Economic Development Advisory Board; I am learning to be a great sailboat crew member.

Connect with Valvo on LinkedIn and Twitter.