Change is inevitable, especially in technology. Giulia Greco, former Head of Localization at Shopify, knows this firsthand.
In a conversation with Javi Diaz on Merging Minds, she shared how she navigated change, built a career in localization, and why embracing uncertainty is key to success.
From Italy to Canada: A Journey of Adaptation
Giulia’s story is one of bold moves. Originally from Italy, she moved to Canada over 20 years ago.
Adjusting to a new culture and work environment wasn’t easy, but she welcomed the challenge.
“I've always enjoyed working in Canada more than in Italy, It’s a different work environment, and I prefer it here.” - she said.
Her journey into localization wasn’t linear.
She studied interpretation and translation but explored different industries before landing a role in tech.
That adaptability would later become her greatest strength.
Building Shopify’s Localization Program
Giulia joined Shopify as an Italian translator. But it quickly became clear that localization was much more than translation.
- She helped build the company’s international content strategy.
- She worked closely with teams on SEO and marketing.
- She saw localization as a growth driver, not just a language function.
Her ability to adapt to shifting business needs earned her leadership opportunities.
Eventually, she stepped into the role of Head of Localization, managing teams and global expansion strategies.
The Challenges of Leadership
Leading a localization team at a high-growth company came with its challenges.
One of the hardest? Letting people go.
“It’s never easy. When your values no longer align with the company’s direction, you have to ask yourself—can I still do this? Do I want to do this?” - she admitted.
This self-awareness led her to make a difficult decision: leaving Shopify.
After more than eight years, she knew it was time to move on.
Embracing Change in a Shifting Industry
The localization industry is evolving fast, especially with AI entering the scene.
But Giulia encourages professionals to lean into change rather than resist it.
“Don't be afraid. Don't be scared. Be open to opportunities that may be different from what you expected. That’s how you grow.” - she advised.
Her advice to newcomers in the industry:
- Stay curious. Keep learning and adapting.
- Be open to different career paths. The best opportunities often come unexpectedly.
- Use new tools. Technology changes, and resisting it won’t help.
The Power of Networking and Community
One of the key elements in Giulia’s journey was the power of networking.
Throughout her career, she has built strong connections within the localization and tech industries.
- Attending industry conferences helped her stay updated on trends.
- Engaging with peers allowed her to exchange knowledge and insights.
- Mentoring others reinforced her belief in community-driven growth.
“Localization is a people-driven industry. Your network can open doors, challenge your perspectives, and provide opportunities you wouldn’t have considered otherwise.” - she said.
What’s Next for Giulia?
After leaving Shopify, Giulia is taking time to reflect and explore new opportunities.
She’s interested in international growth strategies, not just localization.
“Localization is just one piece, I want to look at the bigger picture.” - she said.
Her journey proves that success isn’t about sticking to a set plan—it’s about being adaptable, learning from experiences, and embracing what’s next.
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