My journey in the professional world is guided by a simple yet profound motto: “Live by design, not by default.” This belief has been the cornerstone of my career and the essence of what I bring to those I work with. I’m Maria Moragianis, with over two decades dedicated to career development, talent acquisition, and networking. My career has been an intricate journey of intentional choices, connecting the dots, forging meaningful alliances, and, most importantly, empowering others to craft their success stories.

It all started in the vibrant newsrooms of Greek Reuters: the Athens News Agency, where my passion for communication took root. This experience wasn’t just about mastering the art of storytelling; it was about learning to navigate through information swiftly and effectively, a skill that has been invaluable in every step that followed.

Transitioning from journalism to the strategic world of executive search at Egon Zehnder International, I delved deep into the art of identifying leadership potential and nurturing professional relationships. This was a transformative period, where I learned the importance of connecting the right people and the impact it can have on their careers and lives.

At Alba Graduate Business School, The American College of Greece, I embraced the role of Head of Careers & Alumni, blending my passion for helping others with my expertise in networking and strategic career planning. It was here that I truly began to influence the futures of aspiring professionals, guiding them not just toward achieving their career goals but in living by design, not by default.

Now, as the Head of Career Development & Community Engagement at Highered EFMD in Oslo, I’ve seen my career philosophy come to life on a global scale. I connect talent with leading global employers, ensuring that individuals are not merely drifting through their professional lives but are making conscious, strategic choices that align with their goals and aspirations.

Through M2 Development, which I co-founded, I continue this mission, offering coaching services, trainings, and seminars that empower individuals to manage their careers proactively. Whether it’s through effective communication, networking, career management, or executive presence, my focus is on helping others to live by design.

In every role, from the fast-paced newsrooms to the corporate and academic worlds, my career is a testament to the power of living intentionally. My commitment to career excellence, reflected in my role on the Board of ReGeneration, is about offering a pathway for young graduates to navigate their careers by design, not by default.

My journey, underscored by my love for wine and volunteering, is more than a series of professional milestones. It’s a narrative of continuous learning, adaptation, and the joy of making a difference in the lives of others. This is not just about the roles I’ve held but about the lives I’ve impacted, the professionals I’ve guided, and the community I’ve built. It’s about sharing my belief that with the right guidance, everyone can live by design, not by default, especially when it comes to planning your career.