Over the past year, Lara Yocarini, CEO and chair of the executive board at DLL, has focused on positioning the company for the future by simplifying the organization and strengthening its digital and IT foundations. Recognizing that complexity creates friction that ultimately impacts the customer experience, she has taken a critical look at how DLL works and is organized, prioritizing simplification to help make the company more agile, responsive and easier to do business with. At the same time, DLL increased investments in its digital and IT foundations to strengthen the capabilities needed to support future growth. To support this continued evolution, Yocarini expanded the executive board earlier this year to include a chief digital officer, reinforcing DLL’s commitment to advancing its digital and AI ambitions.
Yocarini’s leadership approach is guided by a philosophy she describes as moving between “the balcony” and “the dance floor” — maintaining a broad, long-term strategic perspective while staying closely connected to execution. This mindset is paired with what she describes as being “daring and caring”: daring in setting ambitious goals and caring in fostering a culture where members (DLL’s term for employees) feel empowered, supported and inspired to bring those ambitions to life.
A strong advocate for open and transparent communication, Yocarini believes leaders should communicate frequently, even when they do not have all the answers. Her approach centers on painting a compelling vision of the future, being honest about the path forward and fostering an environment where members feel informed, engaged and confident in their collective ability to succeed. In addition to communication, DLL’s core values play an important role in Yocarini’s leadership approach, beginning with a commitment to putting customers first and reinforced by partnership, accountability and trust.
In a time of rapid technological change and increasing complexity, Yocarini has demonstrated that the most effective leaders are those who can drive bold transformation while staying deeply connected to their roots and members. Her vision for the future, deep commitment to customers and dedication to building a high-performing, future-ready organization continue to shape DLL’s success. Through her leadership, she is not only preparing DLL for what’s next but also setting a powerful example of leadership in action, making her a deserving Leader of the Year.
“I AM PARTICULARLY PROUD OF HOW OUR EXECUTIVE BOARD HAS EVOLVED OVER THE PAST YEAR, INCLUDING THE ADDITION OF A CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER TO HELP ACCELERATE OUR DIGITAL AND AI AMBITIONS. BUILDING A FUTURE-READY TEAM IS A KEY LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITY.”
– LARA YOCARINI | CEO & Chair of the Executive Board | DLL
