Transitioning from healthcare to global commerce isn’t a typical career path, but for Ana Rosetephane Quilas, CITP, it was a leap that transformed her professional journey.
“I originally trained as a professional nurse and gained valuable experience working abroad, which exposed me to different cultures, industries, and ways of thinking,” Ana recalls. “However, I wanted to challenge myself beyond the healthcare sector and pursue a career that would allow me to think strategically, solve complex problems, and engage in cross-border opportunities.”
That decision led Ana to pursue an MBA from the University of Cumbria in the UK, a move that opened the door to a new world of trade and global business development.
From healthcare to high-tech: building a global career
Ana’s transition into international business was as bold as it was successful. After earning her MBA, she joined Edify, a tech company specializing in immersive experiences for education and training. Over time, she developed expertise in market entry strategies, feasibility studies, and risk management, helping the company expand its global footprint.
When Edify merged with Soluis Group, a leader in immersive technology for real estate and construction, Ana’s role evolved again. She helped integrate both companies’ processes, aligning commercial operations and strategic goals across multiple international markets.
“Through this experience, I gained a deeper understanding of global market expansion and the complexities of scaling a business internationally.”
Expanding business horizons in the Middle East
“One of the most rewarding experiences in my career has been supporting the expansion of our business in the Middle East, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia,” Ana shares. Her work involved conducting in-depth market research, understanding local regulations, and engaging with key stakeholders.
Representing the company abroad became one of the highlights of her career. “I’ve had the opportunity to engage in client-facing meetings, deliver presentations, and conduct product demos in countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Malaysia,” she says.
These interactions not only strengthened her company’s market presence but also reinforced Ana’s passion for bridging global business opportunities through strategic partnerships and immersive technology solutions.
She also played a crucial role in supporting Edify’s $5 million Series A funding, assisting with due diligence and investor negotiations—all aspects of work that reinforced her passion for global business and trade.
Pivotal career moments that led to leadership roles
When Ana earned her MBA, it marked a pivotal shift in her career. It gave her the strategic mindset needed to navigate complex global business environments and take on leadership roles at Soluis and Edify.
With her business acumen, she’s been able to support C-Suite executives with adaptability, analytical thinking, and a deep understanding of international business dynamics. Her role has been instrumental in executing strategic initiatives, managing cross-border operations, and ensuring the smooth implementation of key business decisions in global markets.
Market entry strategy: a project that delivered results
“One of my standout projects was developing market entry strategies for clients looking to expand internationally,” she explains. “Whether it was helping a Hong Kong-based frozen sushi company enter the U.S. market or supporting an immersive tech company’s expansion in the Middle East, I enjoyed crafting approaches that addressed regulatory, financial, and operational challenges while ensuring business sustainability.”
One of the most valuable lessons that Ana has learned over the years is the importance of adaptability.
“International trade is constantly evolving due to shifting regulations, geopolitical events, and market trends.”
“Early in my career, I believed that having a solid strategy was enough, but I quickly realized that the ability to pivot, adjust, and think on my feet is just as crucial.”
That mindset continues to guide her work today, in her new role in corporate governance and executing business strategy and key decisions made by top executives across multiple entities of Soluis Group.
FITTskills courses: bridging knowledge and real-world practice
Ana emphasizes how the FITTskills program provided the structure and theoretical foundation she needed to complement her hands-on experience.
“The FITTskills courses provided me with a structured, in-depth understanding of international trade. They complemented my hands-on experience by giving me the frameworks and methodologies needed to approach trade challenges more strategically.”
Courses like international market entry, and trade finance, for example, helped her craft data-driven strategies for her clients. They also reinforced her ability to assess financial viability, mitigate risks, and structure deals more effectively—skills that have been invaluable in her career.
Putting knowledge into practice with the International Market Entry Strategies course
Ana’s favourite course comes as no surprise: “The International Market Entry Strategies course stood out to me because of its real-world applicability,” she says. “It provided a comprehensive understanding of different entry modes, risk assessments, and strategic considerations when expanding into new markets.”
Pursuing formal validation with the CITP designation
Ana’s decision to earn her Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation stemmed from her desire to formally validate her global trade expertise. “I pursued the CITP designation because I wanted to formally recognize my expertise in international trade and strengthen my credibility in the field.”
She adds,
“The designation is globally respected and signals a high level of competency, which is crucial when working with clients, investors, and international business leaders.”
Having transitioned from healthcare into international business, the CITP designation helped her validate her skillset and solidify her career shift. With it, she can demonstrate her commitment to mastering global trade, positioning her as a trusted advisor in market entry and expansion strategies.
Looking ahead: leading with purpose and expertise
For Ana, earning her CITP wasn’t just a credential—it was a milestone. “Earning the CITP designation was a proud moment for me,” she says. “It represented years of learning, hands-on experience, and dedication to international trade.”
She views the designation as both an affirmation of her journey and a springboard for what’s next.
“The CITP designation will play a crucial role in advancing my career as I continue to expand my consultancy in market entry strategy services.”
In the long term, she wants to take on more leadership roles in global trade initiatives, possibly working with international institutions or advising businesses on large-scale expansion projects—and the CITP will help with this ambition.
A future shaped by global trade certification
As Ana continues to guide companies through international expansion, her story serves as a reminder of how courage, adaptability, and lifelong learning can redefine a career. From healthcare to high-tech, she’s proof that a global trade certification doesn’t just prove expertise, it empowers professionals to drive transformation across industries and borders.
LinkedIn: Ana Rosetephan Quilas, MBA, CITP
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