Owning the Challenge: Manuela Sayer’s Journey to Senior Associate

Manuela Sayer stands out as a dedicated and inspiring Senior Associate whose journey at Dialectica reflects a strong commitment to growth, collaboration, and excellence. Whether mentoring junior team members or tackling complex client challenges, she leads with purpose and positivity. Based in the Bogotá office, Manuela brings a unique perspective shaped by her local experience and global mindset. To gain deeper insight into her approach and experiences, we sat down with Manuela for a candid conversation about her career and values.

What achievement are you most proud of in your journey to becoming a Senior Associate?

I'm most proud of the opportunity I had to train and mentor two junior associates on my team. It has been incredibly rewarding to watch them develop their skills and confidence. This experience has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey and has helped me grow both professionally and personally.

Can you share a time when you went above and beyond to deliver results for a client or team?

I was working with a client who had a very specific and complex project that was difficult to fulfill with our standard processes. Instead of giving up, I worked closely with our team to explore alternative solutions. Through persistent effort and a collaborative approach, we were able to find a creative way to deliver exactly what the client needed. That experience reinforced for me that consistency and hard work are key to exceeding expectations.

‍What does ‘excellence’ mean to you in your day-to-day work?

For me, excellence means consistently going above and beyond what is expected, without the expectation of immediate recognition. It’s about taking initiative, paying close attention to detail, and always striving to deliver the highest quality of work because it’s the right thing to do.

‍What was one skill or mindset shift that helped you grow the most in the last 12 months?

The most significant shift for me has been embracing an open-minded approach. I've learned that when a particular method isn't working, it's crucial to be flexible and willing to explore new strategies or solutions. This mindset has not only helped me overcome challenges but has also opened up new avenues for innovation and learning

‍Can you recall a moment when you failed or struggled? How did you overcome it and what did you learn?

I believe that failure is a fundamental part of growth. There was a time when a project I was leading didn't go as planned, and the results fell short of our goals. I took full responsibility for the outcome. I spent time analyzing what went wrong, gathered feedback from my team, and identified the key mistakes. I learned the importance of clearer communication and more proactive problem-solving.

Who or what played a key role in your development? Any mentors, teammates, or moments that stood out?

My team has been the most important factor in my development. I've been fortunate to work with people from diverse backgrounds and with different strengths. I've learned something from each of them, from technical skills to soft skills like negotiation and communication. Their collective support and unique perspectives have shaped me into a more well-rounded professional.

How do you contribute to creating a strong, collaborative team culture?

I contribute by coming to the office every day with a positive attitude and a genuine eagerness to learn. I believe that positive energy is contagious and can significantly influence a team’s attitude and productivity. By showing up ready to collaborate, I hope to encourage a supportive and optimistic environment for everyone.

‍What’s the best piece of feedback you’ve received—and how did it shape your approach?

The best feedback I've received is to not take things personally and to be open-minded. This advice has taught me to view challenges and constructive criticism as opportunities for growth rather than personal attacks. It has allowed me to approach new situations with a willingness to learn and adapt, which has been invaluable in becoming a better leader and teammate.

Manuela’s journey reminds us that leadership isn’t just about titles — it’s about showing up with integrity, lifting others, and embracing every challenge as a learning opportunity. Her thoughtful reflections and unwavering dedication to her team make her a true role model within Dialectica. 

Stay tuned for more stories from our Senior Associates as we continue to celebrate the people who shape our culture and push us forward.