Kate Giuliani can often be found wearing her signature Lexmark polo t-shirt on camera during a Microsoft Teams meeting or wearing Lexmark green when presenting to customers. She sports a sense of Lexmark pride that seemingly runs through her veins. 

After 33 years at Lexmark, her dedication to the company is no surprise. As she sailed into retirement at the end of June 2024, Kate took a moment to reflect on her long career. The 9-Series launch was her last major project, capping a milestone for her tenure that began when Lexmark was born. 

Q:  How did you join Lexmark? 

KG: I was one of the first employees hired after the transition from IBM back in April 1991. When I was hired, the company didn't even have a name. We were called "NewCo." I initially wondered about NewCo. and how this spin-off would work. I didn't plan to stay long-term. I was thinking I would stay just a couple of years to gain some experience. On day one, the person who escorted me through the plant said "hello" to everyone by name. I thought to myself, "That's so remarkable." But now, I can address everyone by name, too. Lexmark is both a familiar and comfortable place.

Q: How many roles have you had at Lexmark? 

KG: I've never counted. I started in international distribution/export operations and then went into global marketing and then to U.S. marketing. From there, I took leave when my twin sons were born and returned in a global marketing role for the inkjet division. Later, I moved to research and development/product planning. I was in Lexmark Ventures for three years and came back to global marketing, which I consider my "home department." To sum it up, I have been involved in product launches for most of my career here.

Q: What was special about the 9-Series launch?

KG:This wasn't just any product announcement. The launch of the Lexmark 9-Series disrupted a category that hasn't changed technologically for decades. It was really an innovation announcement. 

Over a year ago, we started bringing partners and customers to Lexington to get their feedback. As a result, some valuable changes were made to the design and definition of these products. 

With the arrival of the 9-Series, customers and partners alike are excited. The 9-Series increases opportunity for our A4 products because we can now competitively participate in bids for both A3 and A4. Ultimately, it's the innovation and simplicity we bring to the market that are differentiating. 

Q: How do you describe your role?

KG: I develop content in a way that people can easily understand, digest and that will resonate with them. I communicate to our partners and customers in terms of benefits, rather than specifications. It is important to know the audience and communicate with relevance. For example, employee training, partner training, and customer communication are all unique. My final business trip was to Cebu, Philippines, to address all three. 

Q: As you retire, what are your final thoughts?

KG: I've spent my entire career at one company, had different experiences and met a lot of great people. Our transition from IBM was like starting a small business. Before, we were only shipping from Lexington to IBM sites around the world with no customer contact. Now, we had to engage directly with customers and partners, which is the number one reason we have been successful. Lastly and most importantly, I am grateful for those with whom I have worked and developed friendships over my career. That is what I will remember the most.