Tadd Farrugia, a Filipina commercial manager at Dubai Airports, is a true testament to perseverance and determination. With a mantra that says, “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall – Confucius,” Tadd has never let any challenge stop her from achieving her goals.
Originally from Manila, Tadd moved to Dubai in 2007 in search of international work experience. She started as a Medical Rep and worked her way up the ladder to become a Commercial Manager in the Aviation & Travel Retail industry, in a government entity. She specializes in commercial strategy, sales, and relationship management in private & public sectors.
One thing that Tadd loves about her job is the result it brings to the business and passengers. She believes that the challenges they face and the planning it takes to deliver a great retail experience in the airport is what makes her job exciting. Tadd has also set up her own companies, Perlas Human Resources, an HR consultancy firm specializing in overseas employment, and Perlas Trading, a garment trading entity for B2B market.
“I wanted to get an international work experience then go back to Manila. I’ve noticed those who had wider exposure gets a good break. But then time passed here, started enjoying Dubai. It is a safe place, and I believe a land of opportunity as long as you work smart,” she said.
Tadd is a licensed pharmacist, but she never practiced it. Instead, she pursued a career in sales and key account management. She was also active in organizations like Red Cross & Jaycees when she was younger, and now with the Rotary Club, Dubai Business Women Council, and French Business Group. These clubs are not only for business opportunity but also helps a lot in the community catalyzing positive change.
She focused her career in the commercial sector. She started as sales then evolved in understanding full business complexities—business development, revenue generation, negotiation, and relationship management.
Tadd equipped herself by learning more and taking on challenging roles in the company. She finished an MBA course, Project Management, Airport and Concession management, and is currently studying for a Lean Six Sigma certification.
Working overseas is not easy, and Tadd has faced her own struggles, especially as a woman in a leadership position. However, she never let that stop her from pursuing her dreams. She has always maintained a good relationship with all the people she has worked with and consults with a mentor to guide her in her professional development.
“I like to work in Dubai only, not anywhere. I think the leaders here made it a comfortable place where economy is always steady, and they always try to do better. See, no matter what’s happening around the world or in our country —the food supply did not stop, we still have electricity, petrol, cheap “onion”, we have work —we have a job that supports us here and our family back home,” she expressed.
Tadd believes that life has to happen now, and any plans you want to do in the future, start them today while you can and still young. While she loves working in Dubai, she has no definite plans after her overseas stint. For Tadd, what is important is to live life to the fullest and to keep pushing herself to be better.
“I think having a good support system helps you a lot in your personal or career life. I’m talking
about finding strong friendships, people who will wisely guide you to move up and advise when you’re down. More importantly, you really have to know yourself & appreciate what you have,” she said.
“Find someone whom you respect and ask to be guided. Just don’t give up dreaming until you get what you want,” he advise to her fellow OFWs.
Tadd’s story is an inspiration to all OFWs who aspire to succeed in their careers. With her perseverance, determination, and passion for what she does, Tadd has shown that anything is possible if you put your heart and mind to it.
Read the digital copy of the magazine here:
This story has been featured in Volume 3 Issue 11 of The Global Filipino Magazine. To get a copy, you may contact Mr. Raymart Patulot at +971 56 663 4184. If you have an inspiring story or know someone with one, please send an email to us at eic@theglobalfilipinomagazine.com.
