Paqui Lizana - Global Head of Tech Strategy and Entrepreneurial Leader

Professional Overview

Paqui Lizana is a seasoned technology executive with a diverse background spanning strategy, innovation, and entrepreneurship. As the Global Head of Tech Strategy at IKEA, she leads the company's digital transformation and spearheads the development of cutting-edge technology solutions. With a strong focus on emerging trends and disruptive technologies, Paqui has established herself as a respected industry thought leader.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Global Head of Tech Strategy at IKEA (2023-Present):

Oversees the development and implementation of IKEA's global technology strategy, aligning digital initiatives with the company's long-term vision.

Drives the integration of innovative technologies, such as artificial intelligence, IoT, and virtual/augmented reality, to enhance customer experiences and operational efficiency.

Collaborates with cross-functional teams to identify and capitalize on emerging market opportunities, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

Ambassador at Future Days (2024-Present):

Serves as a thought leader and advocate for sustainable, technology-driven solutions that address global challenges.

Participates in industry events, panels, and workshops, sharing insights and best practices to inspire and empower the next generation of innovators.

Startup Mentor at GrowAI at Google (2024-Present):

Provides strategic guidance and mentorship to early-stage startups in the artificial intelligence and machine learning domains.

Leverages her extensive industry experience to help entrepreneurs refine their business models, access resources, and scale their innovative solutions.

Chief Executive Officer at Paqui Inc. (2023-Present):

Leads her own technology-focused startup, Paqui Inc., driving the development and commercialization of cutting-edge products and services.

Oversees all aspects of the business, including strategic planning, product roadmap, and team management, while fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Co-Founder at BrilliantFailures.xyz (2024-Present):

Co-founded BrilliantFailures.xyz, a platform that celebrates and shares lessons learned from entrepreneurial failures, to inspire and empower the next generation of innovators.

Contributes thought leadership content, moderates discussions, and provides mentorship to aspiring entrepreneurs.

Previous Roles

Prior to her current positions, Paqui held notable roles in the technology and innovation sectors, including:

Global Director of Digital Innovation at IKEA (2021-2023)

External Coach at TEAMLABS (2021)

Startup Co-Founder at Mysa (2020-2021)

Senior External Innovation Advisor at Mind The Gap Team (2020-2021)

Global Head of Digital Products & Services - CDO Office at SEAT,SA (2017-2019)

Global Product Manager for 3D Printing Business at HP (2015-2016)

Business Product Manager - EMEA Region at HP (2013-2015)

Global Customer Assurance Product Manager at HP (2007-2013)

Research Scientist - Aerospace Doctorate Program at DLR (2006-2007)

Academic Background

Paqui holds a Doctorate in Aerospace Engineering from the German Aerospace Center (DLR), where she specialized in cutting-edge aerospace technologies and innovations.

Areas of Expertise

Strategic technology planning and digital transformation

Artificial intelligence, IoT, and emerging technologies

Product management and innovation

Entrepreneurship and startup mentorship

Cross-functional collaboration and team leadership

Professional Impact

Spearheaded the development and implementation of IKEA's global technology strategy, driving the integration of innovative solutions that have enhanced customer experiences and operational efficiency.

Served as a trusted advisor and mentor to numerous startups, helping them refine their business models, access resources, and scale their innovative solutions.

Co-founded BrilliantFailures.xyz, a platform that celebrates and shares lessons learned from entrepreneurial failures, inspiring and empowering the next generation of innovators.

Recognized as a thought leader in the technology and innovation space, regularly participating in industry events, panels, and workshops to share insights and best practices.