“I became CEO on the day the war in Ukraine started — it’s a date I’ll never forget,” says Olga Surugiu, CEO of Orange Moldova, in the latest episode of Emerging Europe Talks She’s Next, empowered by Visa. 

For Olga, leadership began long before the boardroom. “I think my leadership skills were visible back in kindergarten,” she laughs. Born and raised in Moldova, she left home at 17 to study in Bucharest, then later in France, driven by insatiable curiosity and a desire to understand the ‘why’ behind everything. 

Despite speaking seven languages and earning multiple degrees, Olga recalls struggling with insecurity early on. “I wasn’t sure anyone would hire me,” she admits. “But within 10 days, I had seven offers. That changed everything.” 

Today, Olga leads Orange Moldova with what she calls an “entrepreneurial mindset.” She’s built products from scratch, launched a robotics and innovation hub, and champions simplicity as a business principle. “Simple sells. Simple delights. Simplicity is tough—but it's worth it.” 

She’s also outspoken about the need to redefine leadership. “We become leaders so we can grow other leaders. You shouldn’t be afraid that someone will outgrow you—that’s the point. They should.” 

“I found Olga’s story both striking and grounding,” says podcast host Andrew Wrobel. “She’s reinvented what it means to lead, especially in a region where transformation isn’t abstract—it’s lived daily.” 

Reflecting on her journey, Olga says: “I’d tell my younger self—take it easy. Don’t worry so much. Things have a way of working out.”