MY CAREER IN SIX SPOTLIGHT
JOHANNA WAARA
SVP, Head of Corporate Solutions, Europe
Mastercard
Sharing her career journey by answering the six questions below.
Who or what has been your biggest source of inspiration throughout your career?
My uncle has, and continues to be, the biggest source of inspiration throughout my career. He built an international career from humble beginnings, always emphasising that anything is possible when you mind the people around you and stay true to yourself. He’s a true advocate of women in business and consistently shows me that success isn’t just about climbing the ladder, it’s about lifting others up along the way. What strikes me most is how he navigates every situation with genuine authenticity. He’s taught me that relationships are everything in business, but not in a transactional way. It’s about really caring for people and remembering that behind every deal, partnership, and opportunity, there are human beings with their own stories and ambitions. That lesson has shaped every role I’ve taken on.
Would you say your success is primarily due to luck or hard work?
Hard work is essential, but luck definitely plays a role. I’m a strong believer in those sliding door moments, split-second decisions or chance encounters that can completely change your trajectory. The key is that you create your own luck by being prepared when those opportunities arise. I’ve learnt that success happens when hard work meets the right moment, you just have to be ready to say yes, even when it feels slightly daunting.
What is the driving force behind your career aspirations?
Eagerness to learn and always being curious. I was fortunate to start my career in a truly entrepreneurial fintech with leaders who were really open minded and supportive. Innovating and being focused on customer needs was always front of mind. That early growth journey shaped everything. It taught me that the best solutions come from staying curious about customers’ real problems, not assuming you have all the answers.
If given the chance to do one thing differently in your career, what would it be and why?
For a long time, I thought my non-business university degree was a disadvantage. I even did an MBA in my early thirties, partly to compensate for it. However, I now realise that my unique thinking and problem-solving approach actually comes from those foundations. It also completely shifted how I hire; I focus much less on what degree someone has and much more on their general experience, values and how they tackle challenges.
What was your most favourite job/role and why?
I’ve been fortunate to have roles I loved throughout my career, but if I had to pick one, it’s the one I’m in now. Leading Corporate Solutions in Europe for Mastercard is truly rewarding. We have a great team of talent, helping businesses become more efficient with innovative tools and modern B2B payment solutions, while playing a key role in the company’s growth strategy. Every day is different; always exciting, challenging and impactful. What makes it truly special is Mastercard’s culture. We’re a diverse company with inclusive leadership at all levels, and along with our strong women’s networks, we foster an environment where everyone can thrive.
Do you have a favourite motto or quote that guides your professional life?
Generally, I love Oscar Wilde’s wisdom, but the guiding star in my life has always been ‘Never regret yesterday. Life is in you today, and you make your tomorrow.’ It keeps me focused on what I can control and reminds me that dwelling on past decisions, whether good or bad, is wasted energy. What matters is how I show up today and the choices I make moving forward.