New Roadie Arrivals 1/25

The year 2025 kicked off with fresh faces at Columbia Road – a warm welcome to our newest Roadies: Laura and Jasmin!

Jasmin Lavonen

Senior Consultant, Martech

Hi Jasmin, how did you get good at what you do?

The initial spark for my interest in technology actually came from my teenage years. When I was like 13 or 14, I was really into virtual horse stables - yeah, I know. But that nerdy-and-not-at-all-cool hobby really taught me early steps with website creation, HTML and CSS, and figuring out techy things on my own. Of course back then I did not know what this sparked for my later career.

I've always been pretty decent at writing, so my first (actual) profession was a journalist, where I enjoyed quite niche areas like data journalism and fact-checking. But some very fortunate events actually introduced me to the world of customer communications and marketing – and finally to martech. I quickly realised that this might be the right career for me, combining my interest towards compelling content, brand awareness and experiences, logical planning, and technological solutions.

I really want to understand how things work, and I’m detail-oriented, which I feel are necessary aspects when it comes to creating automatic marketing campaigns or customer journeys. So, in summary, my journey to martech has not been a linear one, but rather a sum of lucky coincidences.

Why Columbia Road?

I had actually heard about Columbia Road many times before, and I’d always had a positive vibe from the company and a feeling that it might be a good place to work. I was fortunate enough to have our paths cross, and so far, it feels like a good match.

My initial feeling is that people are very much cared for in Columbia Road, and the welcome has been very warm. Everyone is working towards common goals, which is not a default value in many places. The company culture with a strong trust level towards employees is also something I haven't experienced before at this level.

What makes your heart beat a little faster?

I really get my spark from overcoming obstacles personally and professionally, whether it is about giving my everything in a workout at the gym, nailing some minor detail in an agility training course with my dog or tackling some challenging client problem. I foster a growth mindset in everything I do, and I perceive life as a constant learning journey. 

Laura Santo

Senior Consultant, Martech

Hi Laura, how did you get good at what you do?

I’m someone who learns by doing. I’ve never been much of a reader (thank goodness for audiobooks these days!). Over the years, I’ve learned a lot from my previous roles, both in-house marketing and consulting roles. I’ve also learned a great deal from my colleagues and customers. I firmly believe that true learning happens when people are trusted, and I’m grateful that I have had these opportunities in my career.

Not to forget the people outside of work who have taught me some of the most important things in life: my music taste and how to defend others from my big brothers, how to prioritise and negotiate from my kids, how to be fair and laugh at oneself from my mom and how to relax from my friends.

Why Columbia Road?

I’ve been following Columbia Road for quite some time, and I’ve always been impressed by the company culture and the incredible work the company does. I just knew I had to be part of it. I feel truly welcome here, and I'm excited that joining the team is such a great fit. Everyone is encouraged to be their authentic selves in an environment built on trust and acceptance. Even the brand’s visual identity feels like something that could hang on my own wall.

What makes your heart beat a little faster?

I love helping people and bringing a smile to their faces. In my free time, my dog and I are training to help find missing persons. Every success on this journey feels really rewarding.

As a mom of two kids close to their teenage years, I love every moment when they still want to spend time with me and the family. But my favourite moments are when we get to do outdoor activities together.

I also love dancing. Right now, my heart beats for hip-hop. If I had more time, I’d definitely explore other genres as well.