Maria Mateescu • Software Engineer
About Me
I'm a coach who believes growth happens when we challenge our assumptions, lean into discomfort, and use our experiences—good or bad—as fuel for change. My coaching is rooted in my own journey of navigating big transitions and challenges, from career shifts to moving between countries. I've learned firsthand that the path to meaningful change isn't about following a preset formula—it's about uncovering what's truly important to you, and then aligning your actions with those values.
My approach isn't about giving you any answers. It's about helping you find your own, whether you're facing a tough decision, feeling overwhelmed by life's demands, or simply trying to figure out what's next. I guide you through the process of clarity, uncovering the underlying motivations and beliefs that shape your choices, so you can make confident, informed decisions that reflect who you are and what you want.
I was steered toward Computer Science from an early age. My path felt almost predetermined—study at Oxford, work in tech... but something was missing. While I excelled in technical roles at companies like Facebook, Amazon, I realized that the real challenges I faced were human-centered—teams, decision-making, personal growth. That was a hard realisation for me because I always thought it was all about the maths. But I soon learned to love it. After experiencing several career shifts and life transitions, including living in New York, Cambridge, London, and now Seoul, I found coaching as a way to combine my problem-solving mindset with my desire to help others navigate change. Now, I guide professionals and leaders through the uncertainty of growth, helping them align their decisions with their true values and step into their next chapter with clarity and confidence.
When I'm not coaching, you'll find me exploring food, weightlifting, hiking, reading, writing, and diving into tabletop role-playing games or theater.
Past Engagements
I've had the privilege of working with some incredible organizations, including:
Reddit, Cord(now defunct), Thoughtworks, Facebook, Amazon, Google
Each of these experiences shaped who I am today, both as a professional and as a coach, and has fueled my drive to help others thrive in their careers and lives.