How multilingual skills can boost your career prospects and how Mondelez supports you

To provide an insightful perspective on building a multilingual career, we interviewed Catalina Mironescu - People Experience Commercial Team Lead for the UK&I. With 4 years of experience at Mondelēz International working in People Experience, Talent Acquisition and Employer Branding, Catalina shares how language skills have shaped her professional path, how Mondelez supported her, and the advice she has for those looking to follow a similar career.
 

• How long have you been at Mondelēz International, and what’s your memorable experience so far?

I joined Mondelēz International in October 2021 as a Talent Acquisition Advisor; I already knew I was stepping into a truly global company — but what I didn’t expect was just how much my language skills would become part of my daily toolkit. One of my most memorable experiences has been collaborating on cross-border projects with colleagues from various European markets. Seeing how different cultural perspectives come together to solve challenges has been both inspiring and motivating.
 

• Tell us about your career journey. How did it all start?

My career in HR started almost a decade ago, fueled by a deep passion for understanding people and workplace dynamics. I began in recruitment, covering multiple European countries, which exposed me to a wide range of business cultures and ways of working. Over time, my role evolved toward HR generalist responsibilities, where I could combine my operational expertise with a more strategic focus on people development.

Most recently, I was promoted to People Experience UK&I Lead, a role that allows me to shape employee experience initiatives and foster strong connections across the UK & Ireland markets – a step that builds on my multilingual and multicultural background.
 

• How did the company support you during these career changes?

Mondelēz has been instrumental in supporting my professional growth — from providing access to learning platforms and training programs to encouraging cross-functional collaboration. The company has created an environment where continuous development is part of the culture, making it easier to explore new areas within HR and expand my professional capabilities.
 

• Can you tell us about your background in learning foreign languages, particularly French? How did you develop your advanced level?

Culture has always been a passion of mine. I started learning French in primary school and continued through high school in a bilingual program. My love for the language was sparked by my high school teacher, who saw my potential and supported me by lending me French novels (a rare find in the early 2000s). Immersing myself in literature, films, and conversations with native speakers helped me reach an advanced level. It was never just about grammar — it was about understanding cultural nuances, an essential skill in international work environments.
 

• How does the company encourage the use or development of foreign language skills in day-to-day work?

At Mondelēz, language skills are a bridge to collaboration. Many projects involve colleagues from different countries, so communication in English — and sometimes other languages — is part of everyday life. The company also offers resources for language learning and creates opportunities to practice through cross-market initiatives and multinational team calls.
 

• In what ways did your language skills play a role in your career transitions?

My language skills have opened doors to opportunities that would not have been accessible otherwise. They allowed me to manage recruitment processes in different European markets, build trust with stakeholders from various cultural backgrounds and quickly adapt to roles requiring cross-border collaboration.
 

• What do you appreciate most about working in a multilingual and multicultural environment?

The diversity of perspectives is incredibly enriching. Every conversation is an opportunity to learn something new, whether it’s a business insight, a cultural tradition or a different approach to problem-solving. It keeps my work dynamic and broadens my understanding of the world.
 

• If you could sum up how speaking multiple languages has shaped your career in one sentence, what would it be?

To wrap things up, speaking multiple languages has been the key that unlocked international opportunities, enabling me to connect, collaborate and grow personal and professional.
 

• As our People Services team continues to grow, what’s your biggest advice for someone who wants to join Mondelēz International?

Be curious, open-minded and ready to collaborate with people from all over the world. Embrace learning — whether it’s a new skill, a new perspective, or even a new language — because Mondelēz is a place where growth is not just encouraged, it’s expected. And most importantly, be the captain of your own career ship.