Get to Know Team Alii - Mariana

Name: Mariana Retre

Role: Solutions Manager

About Mariana

I’m a Melbourne based professional with a background in edtech and collaborative software. I very much enjoy working within the edtech space and assisting schools in optimising their processes. I find it very rewarding seeing schools and their communities thrive as a result of that.

Outside of work, I love my pilates and yoga to keep active. I’m an avid soccer fan coming from a Portuguese background and often spend my weekends out supporting my local soccer team. I also love to try new restaurants and spend my days with family, friends and my chocolate cocker spaniel Alfie.

How long have you been in the industry?

‍2 years working with schools

If you could write your own job title that best describes what you do at Alii, what would it be?

Certified Sales and Relationships Girl (iykyk)

‍What’s one financial challenge you see schools struggle with the most?

‍Manual financial workflows and limited budget oversight.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a school considering AP automation?

Optimise your workflows. Stop spending too much time on data entry and tedious tasks within AP, when you could be utilising resources in more meaningful and productive ways. Take the leap because you'll be better off for it, and it will save you time and money in the long run.

What’s your favourite way to start the workday?

Sitting down with my morning coffee and planning out my day.

What’s your go-to coffee (or tea) order?

Skinny Latte or a Matcha – depending on what fuel I’m needing

What are your hobbies?

Pilates, yoga, watching soccer, trying new restaurants, spending time with family, friends and my dog Alfie.

What volunteering or passion projects do you do outside of work?

My current passion project is fixing up the house my partner and I recently bought together. Lots of hours spent painting and decorating our home. I also volunteer at Portuguese community events from time to time.