Tina Todasco is the SVP, Global Finance & Sales Operations at Intuitive. She has 25 years of experience in finance, across a wide variety of functions and industries.

Here is what Tina had to say when we asked her about navigating a career in finance:

GenHERation^®: What does Intuitive do?

Tina Todasco: At Intuitive, we are passionate about enhancing minimally invasive care. I’m guessing most of you have either had surgery yourself or know someone close to you, like a friend or family member, who’s had surgery. In the past, surgery was most often “open surgery,” where the surgeon had to make a very large incision to perform the procedure. With the introduction of medical devices, many surgeries are now minimally invasive—meaning, you have three to four very small incisions, instead of a large one. With these much smaller incisions, many patients may experience benefits, such as recovering faster, spending less time in the hospital, and are back to the things they love. Intuitive is a leader in surgical robotics, which provides surgeons with a platform and technology they need to perform minimally invasive surgery. In 2021, we surpassed 10 million procedures performed by physicians using a da Vinci system, and we’ll continue to work on solutions with the goals to deliver better outcomes, better patient experiences, better care team experiences, and a lower total cost to treat per patient episode.

GenHERation^®: What is one of the biggest misconceptions about working in finance? 

Todasco: There are some who assume finance is just about counting up numbers, which leaves the impression it’s a bit boring and routine. We do so much more than that. There is a new challenge every day, and the opportunity to learn about the business and make a significant impact. 

GenHERation^®: What skill do you utilize the most on a daily basis in your current role? 

Todasco: Listening deeply.

GenHERation^®: What are three ways you can add value to an organization whether you are an intern or full-time employee?

Todasco: First, be curious. Ask a lot of questions. Do not accept things at face value. You might think to yourself, “This doesn’t really make sense, but I am sure someone else figured it out.” Chances are, no one else figured it out, and your creative idea may be a way to unlock a lot of value. Second, be proactive. After you complete a piece of work, take a step back to analyze it. What questions do you have on it? Is there something else you think would be valuable to look into? Don’t feel like you have to wait for someone to ask you—taking that next step almost always leads to deeper insight. Finally, be brave. There may be times that you disagree with a decision being made, and it takes courage to speak up in those moments, but it’s important for different points of view to be heard and considered, and for you to have a voice in that.

GenHERation^®: How do you know when it is time to pursue a new role within your industry?

Todasco: Two things. First, ask yourself, “Have I learned as much as I can?” You want to take advantage of every opportunity to learn and develop in the role. Next, ask yourself, “Have I given something back?” I honestly believe you will not be satisfied if you leave without making an impact. When those two things occur, it’s probably the right time to consider what you’d like to do next. By the way, that’s not always a promotion. We talk about the concept of a “jungle gym” where you make lateral moves into new roles that give you new challenges and opportunities.

If you’re considering leaving your company, my best advice is not to run away from something; but rather to run to something. For me, the culture and the mission are so important. You’ll find that your direct manager may change frequently (I’ve had 26 managers in my 25 years of work experience), but the culture and mission create the ongoing foundation for you to find something you are passionate about.

GenHERation^®: What is your favorite aspect of working at Intuitive? 

Tina Todasco: The people here are amazing, some of the most talented I’ve ever had the privilege of working with. I’d also say the ability to improve patient outcomes. I am filled with so much gratefulness and pride in what we do at Intuitive. 

GenHERation^®: What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

Todasco: Dream big. When you think about where your career can lead you, don’t ever underestimate or discount yourself. It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you believe in yourself!

Tina Todasco is the SVP, Global Finance & Sales Operations at Intuitive. She has 25 years of experience in finance, across a wide variety of functions and industries. Tina started her career at GE, as part of the Financial Management Program, and went on to spend 13 years at Johnson & Johnson in the medical device sector. She joined eBay, and held a number of Corporate roles before joining Intuitive in 2019. Tina earned her Bachelors of Science in Business Administration at UNC-Chapel Hill, and her Masters in Business Administration from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. Tina is inspired daily by her husband, Mike, and two children, Connor and Sydney; her family loves reading, any and all outdoor activities, and Warriors basketball!