Christine Cefalo: Embodying Heart-Driven Leadership at Workday

Christine Cefalo’s journey into the world of technology marketing is a tale of perseverance and adaptability. From her early days working at a fast-food restaurant to navigating the challenges of securing her first tech role at PeopleSoft, her path was anything but conventional. Raised by a teacher and a musician, Christine’s early exposure to the tech industry was limited. However, the work ethic instilled by her parents and her diverse job experiences fueled her determination to succeed.

Joining Workday marked a significant chapter in Cefalo’s career, where she has now contributed over 14 years, growing through eight different roles. Starting in public relations and moving through the ranks to become the CMO, Christine has been instrumental in not only shaping the company’s marketing strategies but also its culture and core values.

“Listening is so important—especially in marketing,” Christine shared in our conversation, reflecting on advice she received from Workday’s co-founders. This philosophy of listening intently to customers, market trends, and her own team has been central to her leadership style. It allows her to bring an “outside-in” perspective that keeps the company aligned with the evolving needs of its users and the market.

Under Cefalo’s leadership, Workday paused its brand campaign launch at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, choosing instead to focus on employee well-being—a decision that speaks volumes about her values-driven approach. This sensitivity and responsiveness to global events have shaped how Workday communicates its brand, ensuring that the company’s messaging resonates with both heart and mind.

Christine’s tenure has not been without challenges. The rapid shift to a remote working model during the pandemic tested her ability to adapt quickly. By emphasizing an employee-first culture and gathering weekly feedback from the team, she ensured that Workday not only adapted to new realities but also thrived, maintaining a focus on the health and productivity of both employees and customers.

Christine’s strategies have significantly boosted Workday’s visibility and market share, making it a beloved brand among enterprises looking for human-centered tech solutions. Her focus on empathetic marketing and robust community engagement has helped shape Workday’s image as a compassionate and innovative leader in the tech space.

“I’ve also learned about the importance of values, and the power of using them as a North Star—a strong set of values will always lead you to the right answer,” says Christine. This guiding principle has been evident in how Workday approaches everything from product development to customer service and internal culture.Looking ahead, Christine is excited about the role of technology in enabling positive change. She is passionate about supporting people with disabilities and normalizing conversations about mental health, reflecting her commitment to inclusivity and support within and outside Workday.

A staunch advocate for people with disabilities and mental health awareness, Christine’s personal experiences have deeply influenced her professional outlook. She sees these challenges not as disabilities but as different abilities that bring unique perspectives and strengths to the table.

Christine Cefalo’s leadership at Workday is a testament to her belief that true success comes from combining a data-driven approach with a deep understanding of human emotions and values. Her journey from the early struggles to her role as a top marketing leader is a powerful reminder of the impact empathetic leadership can have on a global scale. As Workday continues to evolve, Christine’s vision and strategies are set to propel the company further into the forefront of enterprise technology, making it a beacon for others to follow.