Sofia Fernández
E-commerce Manager
Sofia shares what it's like to build a life and a career in a new country, how growing up in Spain shaped her approach to collaboration and client relationships, and why structure and flexibility are never opposites. From quiet mornings and Saturday markets to the clarity that comes with becoming a mother, Sofia reflects on the values that guide her work and the small things that make every day feel worth it.
You moved from Spain to Amsterdam in 2022 - how has that transition felt for you so far, both personally and professionally?
It’s been a very fulfilling journey so far, the city really complements my lifestyle, both personally and professionally. I’ve learned a lot about myself, especially in understanding how the differences between Amsterdam and Barcelona shape how I feel day to day. For example, commuting has become much faster, and cycling to work has turned into a peaceful moment in my day.
What do you miss most about Spain, and what have you come to appreciate about life here in Amsterdam?
I miss my family the most, and I’m still figuring out how to find the right balance in visiting Spain more often. I also really miss the food; especially the fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables.
At the same time, Amsterdam has so much to offer. I love going for a swim during the summer in one of the city’s spots. It’s not the Mediterranean, but it has its own charm and it’s always fun.
Are there any routines, places, or foods that help you feel at home, no matter where you are?
Going to Noordermarkt always makes me feel at home: buying fresh fish, vegetables, and good bread. It often inspires me to cook something more elaborate over the weekend, like a lasagna or a stew. Cooking, in general, really grounds me.
I also enjoy visiting bakeries and getting fresh bread. I have a few spots I like, such as Fort Negen, although I’m still on the lookout for a go-to favourite.
In what ways has growing up in Spain shaped how you work and connect with others?
In Spain, we’re raised to be outgoing, and connecting with people comes very naturally. This plays an important role in my work as an E-commerce Manager, where building trust with clients is key. I aim to strike a balance between professionalism and a more personal approach, while keeping collaboration positive and approachable in our day-to-day.
Do you feel your cultural background influences how you collaborate within an international team?
Definitely! In Spain, we really value the human side of work and collaboration, and that naturally carries into how I work with my team. I’m mindful of how I communicate and how it may impact others, and I try to support my colleagues by creating clarity and confidence in a fast-paced environment.
What moments in your day tend to give you little “glimmers”—the things that make you feel calm, happy, or fully yourself?
I’m definitely a morning person. Waking up early and having quiet time before work, especially reading, is very important to me. I like to ease into the day slowly; it really sets the tone for everything that follows.
You’re currently in a very special phase of life - has becoming (or preparing to become) a mother already changed anything in how you approach your look on life?
Yes, my mindset and priorities have definitely shifted. It’s become much clearer what truly matters, and that clarity has brought me a lot of peace and focus, both in my work and in my personal life.
How would you describe yourself beyond your role, and what tends to bring you energy in your day-to-day life?
I really enjoy slower, more offline activities, like cooking or spending time with family. I’m a curious person and love learning new things, which often leads me to explore activities I’ve always been interested in, like pottery or ballet.
What personal values guide you in your work and in how you show up for others?
Collaboration and flexibility are key values for me. I see our team as an extension of our clients, always looking for opportunities to collaborate and add value where it’s most needed. At the same time, while I approach work in a structured way, I believe flexibility is essential; every client has different needs, team dynamics, and ways of working. Balancing these two values is what allows us to deliver strong, meaningful results.
What’s something about you that people might not immediately expect, but that quietly shapes who you are?
I tend to be quite direct and value honest, constructive discussions. I actually enjoy being challenged and hearing different perspectives, as it helps me think more clearly and grow. This side of me isn’t always immediately visible when meeting me for the first time, but it strongly shapes how I build relationships.
How would you describe your role within the NSL team, and what part of it do you enjoy most?
My role is to understand the client’s needs, sometimes even anticipating them before they’re fully defined, and translate that into clear, actionable solutions. Internally, a big part of my role is planning. Strong planning ensures that both the client feels supported and the team can thrive, and that balance is something I really enjoy working towards.
What advice would you give to someone moving to a new country and starting a new role at the same time?
Sign up for a language course. It gives you structure, helps you build a social circle, and allows you to better understand the culture of the country you’ve just moved to. And most importantly, enjoy the experience!
