Employee Spotlight: Olina Islam

Olina Islam | Global Revenue Operations | Joined Penumbra in 2022 | Alameda, CA

Q. What is your current role at Penumbra?

As part of revenue operations, I work with the commercial team to implement short- and long-term sales strategies backed by deep-dive analytics, alignment with broader business objectives and close collaboration with Finance, Marketing, and Operations counterparts. My team spearheads sales process optimization, performance reporting, and forecasting to generate actionable insights for commercial leadership.

Q. What aspects of your job do you enjoy most?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is the opportunity to build strong relationships across the organization through its cross-functional nature. The support, mentorship, and encouragement I have received have played a significant role in shaping my professional growth and career journey.

Q. What drew you to Penumbra?

When exploring my next career opportunity, I was primarily focused on the MedTech and EdTech sectors. Learning that Penumbra’s products help treat stroke patients made the opportunity especially meaningful to me, as a close family member had experienced stroke firsthand.

Q. If you did not pursue your current career, what do you see yourself doing professionally?

I aspire to create a hidden speakeasy nestled inside an art gallery, offering thoughtfully curated small plates and cocktails that celebrate the rich flavors of Bengali cuisine. As someone born in Bangladesh, my cultural heritage is a deeply important part of my identity, and I would love to share it through food, drink, and hospitality.

Q. Describe yourself at age 10. What career aspirations did you have at that age?

When I was younger, I wanted to become a doctor. I still have a school essay titled “Myself,” where I wrote about my dream to save lives. While my path took a different direction, being part of an organization dedicated to improving patient outcomes feels like a close and fulfilling alternative.

Q. Describe a travel adventure that you’ll never forget.

While traveling through Peru with a friend, we ventured into the heart of the Peruvian Amazon. After a two-hour flight, an hour-long drive, and another hour navigating the Tambopata River by boat, we finally arrived at our remote lodge. Spending three days surrounded by the rainforest was truly an experience unlike any other.

Q. What is the most important thing you have learned in the last five years?

No amount of time with family, friends, and loved ones ever feels like enough. Being fully present and cherishing those moments is what truly gives life meaning.