MY CAREER IN SIX SPOTLIGHT
REBECCA MICHAEL
Chief of Staff
Zepto
Sharing her career journey by answering the six questions below.
Who or what has been your biggest source of inspiration throughout your career?
My inspiration comes from those who have mastered the ‘art of the pivot.’ In the fast-moving payments landscape, I’m inspired by leaders who champion the employee experience while driving rapid growth. Successfully navigating high-stakes strategy while keeping team engagement at an all-time high is exactly what drives me in the dynamic role of Chief of Staff.
Would you say your success is primarily due to luck or hard work?
Success is built on practiced discipline. While luck might open a door, hard work puts you in the hallway to begin with. The opportunities I’ve had weren’t random; they resulted from consistent effort when no one was watching. By maintaining a rigorous work ethic, I ensure that when ‘lucky’ moments arise, I’m not only in the room but fully prepared to execute.
What is the driving force behind your career aspirations?
I’ve never adhered to a rigid career path—and I’m glad, as it led me to industries and roles I never anticipated, including payments! My driving force has always been a desire for engaging work where I can add tangible value. Focusing on driving outcomes rather than a specific title has naturally opened the doors to where I am today.
If given the chance to do one thing differently in your career, what would it be and why?
I would have leaned into my curiosity sooner. It took time to realise that my inquisitive nature and my comfort ‘operating in the grey’ were actually the foundational skills of a Chief of Staff. I was fortunate to have an executive leader who helped me see these traits as a career path, showing me what was possible when you align your natural strengths with a role that heroes these traits.
What was your most favourite job/role and why?
My current role as Chief of Staff. It allows me to apply my People & Culture toolkit to solve complex business problems across all functions. There is something incredibly rewarding about being the ‘connective tissue’ of an organisation—ensuring the CEO’s vision is translated into a culture that actually lives and breathes in our employees’ day-to-day work.
Do you have a favourite motto or quote that guides your professional life?
To be my authentic self: my favourite motto is the acronym GSD—Get Sh*t Done. It’s a call to action that drives momentum, cuts through the noise, and creates the change needed to keep an organisation moving forward.