In this issue, we are thrilled to invite Jordan Sandoval, the newly appointed CEO of a leading SaaS and e-commerce company. Jordan's rapid ascent from Chief of Staff to CEO within a year is a testament to her exceptional leadership and dedication. In this interview, Jordan shares the motivations behind her journey, the influences of motherhood on her leadership style, and her vision for the future of both her family and her company. Join us as we delve into her inspiring story and the insights she has gained along the way.
1. We know that your served as Chief of Staff the past 8 months. Within one year, you were promoted to be the CEO of your company. What/who has been your biggest support or motivation during this process?
My biggest motivation has been the chance to challenge traditional norms. I aspire to change the narrative for young women aiming for CEO, and other executive roles in fields that have been traditionally dominated by older men. I also want my son to grow up knowing that his mom can hold traditional traits associated with motherhood, to be both compassionate, loving, and present, while holding a powerful title and managing significant responsibilities. Many incredible female leaders have paved the way, and I feel honored to continue along this path.
As for support, the people I surround myself with -my spouse, family, friends, and mentors- have been invaluable. The saying "you are the company you keep" resonates deeply with me. I choose to be around those who uplift and encourage me, who understand my career goals, who challenge me to reach them, and celebrate when I do.
2. How has being a mother influenced your business decisions and leadership style?
Before becoming a mom, I always took great pride in being hands-on and detail-oriented, ensuring that things were running smoothly and effectively. Becoming a mother opened my eyes further to the fact that, despite your best efforts, you simply can’t control every outcome. Whether it’s your child taking their first tumble or a business decision not going exactly as planned, you come to realize there are limits to what you can influence.
It’s further strengthened my ability to delegate, to trust my team, and to empower others to take ownership. I now recognize that there isn’t one perfect way to get things done. My way may be effective for me, but other approaches can be just as successful, if not better.
3. As a working parent and someone steering the company, how do you encourage and support other working parents within your company?
I believe in creating a work environment where parents can be unapologetically present. The first day of school? Be there. A sick kid at home? It’s perfectly okay to adjust your schedule. If a toddler makes an unexpected cameo in a meeting, they’re more than welcome.
Family is often seen as a distraction in professional settings, but I see it as a driving force. Supporting work-life balance is not just for working parents—it’s essential for everyone on the team. When people can balance personal and professional demands, they’re happier, healthier, and more engaged. I view it as my responsibility as a leader to encourage my team to find and maintain that balance, as it benefits both the individual and the company in the long run.
4. What are your long-term goals for both your family and your business?
In my role as CEO, my primary goal is to foster a culture where team members feel proud of the work they do and inspired by the company they work for. I want to continue building a workplace where we tackle challenging problems and make a real impact.
For my family, I want us to be known for how we care for others and our community. I hope to model a life where love, compassion, and dedication shine through in everything we do. On a personal level, I’m looking forward to diving into some passion projects I’ve been dreaming about, finding ways to give back and create positive change in areas I’m passionate about.
5. What advice would you give to other mothers who are returning to work after having a baby?
My advice for moms returning to work is to be patient with yourself. Give yourself grace. It’s okay if the transition feels harder than expected. There will most likely be tears, difficult goodbyes, and times when you feel like you’re being pulled in a million directions. In those moments, remind yourself that it’s okay to take a break, steal an extra snuggle, or prioritize yourself.
One of the most important things you can do, especially postpartum, is take care of yourself including making use of any mental health resources available to you. Postpartum anxiety and depression are real and acknowledging them doesn’t make you weak; it makes you strong. Ultimately, remember that you deserve the same grace you would show to others. Treat yourself with kindness as you navigate this new chapter.
6. At Momcozy, we encourage moms to see beyond the label of a mom as a woman. Could you share your understanding of "More Than A Mom"?
I initially feared that motherhood would consume my identity, that there wouldn’t be space for my goals, dreams, and ambitions. Being a mom is one of my greatest privileges - it’s a title I hold with pride, and it influences every part of my life. Yet, I am also so much more. "More Than A Mom" serves as a reminder that my identity is multi-faceted. Each role I play, each experience I have, shapes me. Motherhood is a defining part, but it exists alongside all the other passions and aspirations that make me who I am.
Submit your story at joanna@momcozy.com for a chance to be featured and special gifts!
