Davide Battisti

Davide Battisti (University Master’s Degree in Business Management and Production Systems, 2007) is European Strategic Partner Manager – Distribution & Pixel for Business at Google, with over 15 years of international experience in Fortune 500 companies. Throughout his career, Davide has led strategic projects in sales, operations and partnerships within the technology sector and has become a distinguished negotiator and leader of multicultural teams, driving growth and business results. In this interview, he reflects on his career and shares his professional and personal vision, as well as the key lessons that have shaped his development.

• Who is Davide Battisti as a person and professional? How would you describe yourself, and what motivates you each day in your life and work?

I'm an ambitious person who enjoys trying new things and getting the most out of everything I do. At work, I always try to give my best but never forget that we should also have fun. Without that, things would get tedious. At home, I enjoy spending time with my family, travelling with them and having fun together. My biggest source of motivation is knowing what's next and going after it.

• What has your career path been like from completing your master's degree to your current position at Google?

It's been a fascinating journey. I was just one subject away from finishing my degree when I started applying for jobs, which can take a while, and I was suddenly presented with a job offer from Accenture's consulting division. For me, consulting was an intense learning experience: so many projects, people, travel. At first you don’t know anything, but you pick things up quickly. You also begin to understand how a company really works, and not just in terms of structure, but in terms of how people operate and which soft skills are key to success – or survival.

As often happens in consultancy, you end up being hired by a client. That's exactly what happened to me. I was working on an M&A project as a consultant for Tech Data (TD Synnex), and they offered me a position in their internal consultancy team. That was just the beginning. Two years later, I moved into a business role managing mobility products, which eventually led to the entire business unit. I spent nearly nine years there and learned a great deal, particularly about managing teams, including those that didn’t report directly to me; how to exercise diplomacy; how to manage upwards; leadership; budgeting; and how to deliver results.

Similarly, I had a close relationship with Google as a client, and one day they offered me a position in their Devices division. At first, I couldn't believe it.

• What are your main responsibilities as Strategic Partner Manager at Google?

I have two main responsibilities. The first is managing the E2E relationship with a strategic partner, which in my case is the largest distributor in the world, ensuring that their performance across Europe remains strong and that their relationship with Google is aligned at all levels: operations, sales and leadership. I have a local team managing the day-to-day relationship, while I oversee the long-term strategy and high-level relationship and help resolve any problems that arise.

In addition, I lead the growth of Devices in the B2B space. It is a completely new project that, despite the small team, is already delivering great results.

• What is it like working at a global company like Google, known for its innovation, corporate culture and focus on technology?

I'd already worked at a global company, but Google has been a quantum leap. What stands out most to me is the quality of the employees, being surrounded by so many highly intelligent people, the freedom they offer. At Google, employees are given the freedom to manage their time and even choose their projects, in addition to their core business. The motto is basically: if you want to devote time to something you're passionate about, go for it!

The Impact: Google is global. Everything it does is seen or used by millions of people! It's incredible. The flat structure: Google is very non-hierarchical. If I am responsible for a client or a project and I have to present it to senior management, I go and present it, not my bosses.

• What skills do you think are essential for a good leader? And what strategies do you use to motivate your team?

Without a doubt: listening and trust. The most important lesson I've learned over the years – and this is a core principle at Google – is that success comes from the team, not the individual or the manager. Any success I've had is thanks to the work my team does every day. Without them, I couldn't achieve anything. I treat my team as the owners of their area of the business. I encourage them to make decisions and think independently. I'm here to support them, not control them.

Sustainability is a key focus for many tech companies today. How is Google addressing this, and how does it relate to your area?

From the beginning, Google has been on an ambitious journey to help build a more sustainable future. Through our products, we aim to empower individuals, cities and partners to collectively reduce 1 gigatonne of carbon emissions annually by 2030. We've also set a bold goal to reach net-zero emissions across all our operations and value chain, including running on carbon-free energy (CFE) 24/7 in every grid in which we operate.

A sustainable future requires system-wide change, strong government policy and new technologies. We believe that Al has the potential to help tackle some of the world's biggest climate changes. Expanding its use and applying it to environmental impact. We're committed to playing our part at every stage of that journey.

What advice would you give to students who hope to pursue a career in innovative companies such as Google?

Think outside the box, do not be afraid to ask questions or challenge the status quo.

Dedicate time to your work and try and enjoy it because it can be a lot of fun.

• Favourite film: The Matrix and Ratatouille
• A book: The Lord of the Rings
• Your favourite music: everything, from Oasis to System of a Down. But especially Subsónica, a group from Turin that I’ve been listening to since I was young.
• A phrase that represents you: Ad maiora semper
• Favourite place: Japan
• Hobbies: I still play volleyball in a team. I enjoy skiing and wine tasting.