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Laura Stanbridge

Consultant, Marbella, Spain

Laura Stanbridge has a passion for international life. As soon as she graduated from the School of International Service at the American University in Washington, D.C. with a degree in International Relations, Laura moved to Paris and worked for the American computer company, General Automation. She progressed well and became the head of their World Trade division overseeing contracts and client relationships.
 
After Paris, Laura moved to New York to set up the first French-speaking television station in the United States.
Success Story: Laura Stanbridge – Consultant, Marbella, Spain
 
Then, onto London, Laura produced documentaries for an award-winning production company. Laura was appointed an Associate Board Director at August One Communications and at MacLaurin, where she worked with leading UK companies on their corporate and consumer communication strategies.

Her next move was to Spain, where she founded the Costa Consulting Group (CCG). As the managing director at CCG, she helped lead the company through tremendous growth while providing businesses with accounting, tax, legal and HR services. CCG also works closely with the Spanish government, allowing Laura to become involved in projects that have earned her a special recognition from the City of Marbella for her contributions in the area of foreign integration.

Since being in Spain, Laura has also founded the organization Women in Business, was elected to the British Chamber of Commerce's Governing Council and appointed as their Head of Public Affairs and the Chamber's President of their Andalucía Chapter.

Laura sits on the board of the CIT (the Chamber of Commerce in Marbella) and helps the Marbella City Hall in developing opportunities in the fields of foreign investment, educational and governmental relations. She was also recently elected to the Alumni Board of American University in Washington DC.

Laura holds a degree in Arts Management. She has also completed an academic program in commercial law at USC and she attended an executive program at Harvard Business School.
 
 
Expat Women's Interview with Laura
 
Expat Women: Laura, what convinced you to start your career in Paris, so early after leaving university in the United States?
 
Laura: Upon graduation from American University, I was very fortunate to have a job working for a major American computer company who required someone with knowledge of the European Community. This was a great opportunity, not only professionally but also because of the chance to experience being an adult in the working world in another culture. It was tough – my secretary would barely speak to me as she did not approve of working for someone so young!
 
Expat Women: You have worked in diverse roles over the span of your career. What situation did you find most challenging and how did you overcome that challenge?
 
Laura: Work ethics have been the hardest to adapt to. In the US you tend to give people the benefit of the doubt and assume professionals will behave accordingly. However, I have lived in countries where corruption and conflict of interest are the norm and it has been frustrating at times to work in this environment. Nevertheless, by sticking to my core principles I have earned a reputation which has served me well and contributed to my success abroad.
 
Expat Women: You have said that you pride yourself on being able to adapt to new situations easily. What other skills do you think women need to succeed in the workplace abroad?
 
Laura: Patience is a virtue and when living abroad it is a necessity. Education and problem solving varies so much between countries so it is important to keep your cool if things are not being done the way you are used to. Also, a sense of humor is really important. And keep a good book – both come in handy when waiting in government offices, stuck in traffic in the heat, or when you are not getting the service you should.
 
Expat Women: You have an impressive educational background. How important is it for women who would like to move up in their professional life to "go back to school" for further education?
 
Laura: I think that is really a personal question. Education such as a Masters is great if it will add value by either a step up the career ladder or increase in pay. Otherwise, further education is really to fulfill oneself. My studies have not helped me in any particular sense, but they have enriched my life by furthering my knowledge and making me feel good about myself.
 
Expat Women: What are your top five tips for women who are considering working abroad?
 

Laura:

 
1.
Make sure you are "in love" with your destination;
   
2.
Learn the local language - including body language;
   
3.
Get involved! Join clubs to meet people and build your network;
   
4.
Be familiar with local laws and custom; and
   
5.
Be responsible – you are an ambassador for your home country.
 
Expat Women: What's next for Laura Stanbridge? Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years time?
 
Laura: At 49 years of age, I am at a transition in my life and I am wondering what I will do over the next 10 years. I would like an adventure. I think I have gotten to a place in life which I have earned, but it feels almost as though the challenges are behind me. It is time for me to seek new challenges. Watch this space...
 
Expat Women: Laura, we congratulate you on your accomplishments and the recognition you have received for your hard work. We wish you the best in all your future endeavours. Thank you!
 
 
Links
 
CCG (Costa Consulting Group)
http://www.ccgspain.com/
 
 
October 2010
 
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