Header Mariana

The story of Mariana

IT Manager Value Chain

I’m Mariana, originally from Venezuela, and I’ve been with TME for 11 years now. I joined as a graduate after completing my degree in Venezuela and a Master’s in the UK in Advanced Computer Science. Currently, I am the IT Manager for After-Sales Systems. 

How and why did you join Toyota?

I wanted to use my IT expertise but not work solely in IT. I wanted to learn something new, and TME gave me that opportunity. The graduate programme lasted two years, and I really enjoyed the time spent with my graduate group. We even worked for a few weeks on the production line in England, specifically in the paint shop. I’ll always remember the team spirit and the bonding we experienced as newcomers to TME.
After that, I joined R&D as a Specialist and was quickly promoted to Senior Specialist. A few years later, I joined Toyota Spain for a short rotation. Now, I am responsible for a different area of the organization, focusing on sales and customers. TME truly provides opportunities to grow and work in diverse areas.

Can you briefly describe your journey through Toyota until now? 

In 2013, I joined TME not because it was an automotive company, but because it gave me the chance to apply my knowledge and develop further. I spent nine years in R&D IT, which was an incredible experience. I worked on next-generation cars and future solutions that would later come to market. In 2021, I had the chance to rotate to Toyota Spain, where I gained insights into customer needs and how the local market operates. Then, in 2023, I returned to TME and became responsible for the IT team managing after-sales solutions.

Now, I oversee IT systems used by local markets to enhance customer retention, promote after-sales products like accessories, and support systems used to diagnose vehicle conditions.

What's it like to work at TME?

TME is a great place to work, and they genuinely care about you as a person. I received a lot of support when moving to Brussels, including help with my visa. I’ve made real friends here and even met some fellow Venezuelans, making life in Brussels enjoyable. 

The multicultural environment, the Toyota Way, and our 5 Cs make working here even better. There’s also a strong focus on diversity, and you can see progress step by step, which is really encouraging.
 

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

What I love most about my job is that I’m always learning. Working with colleagues from different nationalities and cultures makes it fascinating. There are endless opportunities for professional and personal growth. Our office is great too - completely open-plan, which makes collaboration easy. You can approach anyone for help, and they’ll always support you. I’d recommend TME to anyone looking for a place to grow, use their skills, and develop their career.
 

What three words best describe working at Toyota?

Reliable,
Opportunity,
Traditional values

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