Embracing global connections: Mission Days
Each year Wise holds an annual event we like to call Mission Days. Mission Days is an opportunity for Wisers to connect around the globe, come together and foster relationships. We spoke with McKinley Huff, Austin’s People Operations Advisor, as she shares her experience attending this transformative gathering. From the diverse and inclusive atmosphere to the thoughtfully designed collaboration, McKinley’s journey unveils the power of networking, cross-team collaboration, and gaining a global perspective that propels Wise’s mission forward.
As a new hire, did you have the opportunity to attend the recent company event in Tallinn with global attendance? What were your overall impressions and experiences of the event in Tallinn?
While I have been at Wise for nearly a year, this was my first opportunity to attend the global Mission Days event with members from our teams from across the globe. Meeting Wisers from different countries and backgrounds was truly inspiring. It reinforced the fact that Wise is a diverse and inclusive organization that values the contributions and perspectives of individuals from all around the world.
The event itself was thoughtfully designed to foster meaningful discussions and collaboration. This format allowed for open and honest conversations throughout the week that just can’t happen as easily over Zoom and Slack.
Overall, my experience provided me with a deeper understanding of Wise’s mission, the progress we have made, and the immense potential for future growth.
How did you find the experience of networking and connecting with colleagues and attendees from different parts of the world?
The experience of networking and connecting with Wisers from different parts of the world provided me with a unique opportunity to expand my professional network and forge meaningful connections with individuals who I have worked with remotely for almost a year. Just getting the opportunity to give the members of my global team a hug, or high five after all of the hard work we have done together over the past year made the trip across the world worth it.
Engaging in conversations with Wisers from different parts of the world also allowed me to gain a broader understanding of the challenges and opportunities across our offices around the globe. It was fascinating to hear firsthand accounts of their experiences, learn from their unique insights, and exchange ideas on how we could collectively drive Wise’s mission forward.
Even the informal networking opportunities, such as meals and social activities, allowed for more relaxed and casual conversations with Wisers I may not always have the opportunity to interact with on a day to day basis.
Were there any specific highlights or memorable moments from the event that you’d like to share?
One of the most memorable highlights from the event was the opportunity to network with the entire global People team from across the globe for the first time. As a new hire, this was an exceptional experience that allowed me to connect with Wisers who played a crucial role in my onboarding journey and thank them for the support they have given me.
How do you think this global event in Tallinn might impact the way you interact with your team or other teams going forward?
Mission Days emphasised the importance of cross-team collaboration and encouraged a spirit of openness and knowledge sharing. I learned the power of diverse perspectives and the value of seeking input from colleagues outside of my immediate team. This experience has made me more proactive in reaching out to other teams, seeking their insights, and finding opportunities for collaboration.
Mission Days also highlighted the significance of building strong relationships with Wisers from different departments and regions. The connections I made during the event have created a network of professionals whom I can reach out to for support, advice, and collaborative efforts.
The event reinforced the importance of maintaining a global perspective in my work. Interacting with Wisers from various parts of the world has made me more aware of the cultural nuances and location-specific challenges that we need to cater to as a global company.
Did you have any discussions or interactions with colleagues or attendees that shed light on the current trends or challenges in our industry on a global scale?
The discussions and interactions with Wisers during the event shed light on several current trends and challenges in our industry on a global scale. Conversations with colleagues from various regions revealed the complexity and ever-changing nature of regulatory frameworks in both HR and the financial industry.
We spoke of and highlighted the challenges and opportunities associated with all of our different locations and meeting all of our diverse needs as a People team. It became evident that understanding local market dynamics and effectively navigating cultural nuances are crucial for a successful global People Team.
Any advice you would give anyone new to Wise or someone who has never attended Mission days previously?
Embrace the opportunity and get out of your comfort zone. The opportunity to be in the same venue as 2,500+ other Wisers working toward the same mission only happens once a year. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with Wisers from different teams, learn from their expertise, and contribute your own insights. Be proactive in engaging with others and participating in discussions. Take advantage of the networking opportunities and reach out to colleagues from different departments, regions, and levels of experience. Building relationships and connections can be invaluable for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and progress toward our mission.
Mission Days is just a step in a Wiser’s journey at Wise. Remember to stay engaged and connected with the Wise community beyond just the event.
Tags
Roles you might be interested in
Salary
83000 - 118000 GBP Annual
Location
London
Team
Operations
Locations
London
Description
Join our dynamic Wise Platform team as a Risk Senior Lead, where you will play a crucial role in scaling and strengthening our onboarding and compliance operations for enterprise businesses and banks
Reference
29857dba-4295-4930-9b5b-0f0ff834efa4
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
84000 - 117000 GBP Annual
Location
London
Team
Product
Locations
London
Description
We’re looking for an experienced Revenue Operations Specialist, who is passionate about the Wise mission – money without borders to join the Global Wise Platform. This is a key role in driving perform
Reference
ce39d696-7af5-45b7-a2dc-93066573e378
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
26333.33 - 33500 SGD Monthly
Location
Singapore
Team
Product
Locations
Singapore
Description
The Head of Presales APAC will play a crucial role in leading and coaching our team, working towards ambitious goals to deliver our growth objectives for Wise Platform. This lead will be tasked to def
Reference
5fe61f84-c56e-4b3c-b502-458199fd17cc
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
18000 - 28000 SGD Monthly
Location
Singapore
Team
Product
Locations
Singapore
Description
We’re looking for an ambitious, hands-on and independent enterprise sales manager, who is passionate about the Wise mission – money without borders. You’ll be a part of the Wise Platform team, helping
Reference
6272d930-7b59-4020-af2d-88b9d795ceb3
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
18000 - 28000 SGD Monthly
Location
Singapore
Team
Product
Locations
Singapore
Description
We’re looking for an ambitious, hands-on and independent enterprise sales manager to focus on our Hong Kong and China pipeline, who is passionate about the Wise mission – money without borders. You’ll
Reference
3135e84d-f7c9-48cd-b9aa-4fa921ec4e11
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
23300 - 34400 BRL Monthly
Location
São Paulo
Team
People
Locations
São Paulo
Description
Join our dynamic and expanding team in São Paulo and play a crucial role in shaping the future of Wise in the Americas. As a Principal Recruiter, Core Functions, you'll have the opportunity to foster
Reference
8b2bdfcf-9621-426a-be8f-a639ebb43808
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
62000 - 88000 GBP Annual
Location
London
Team
Marketing
Locations
London
Description
We’re looking for a driven and ambitious Business Partnerships Manager to join our Partnerships team in London. You’ll be identifying companies that have the trust of potential Wise Business customers
Reference
8d2d74ca-978a-47f9-9799-595c7c5b97bd
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
127000 - 150000 GBP Annual
Location
London
Team
Legal
Locations
London
Description
Advise and lead on a broad range of disputes both UK/Europe-focussed and globally, including high-value litigations and arbitrations, regulatory matters, competition disputes, IP disputes, consumer di
Reference
a25f3fbc-e699-4f81-92e8-00d07828aa48
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
85000 - 105000 GBP Annual
Location
London
Team
Technology
Locations
London
Description
About the role We are looking for an experienced Senior Software Engineer with a strong product and engineering mindset to join our Treasury Markets team. Our team plays a crucial role in ensuring Wis
Reference
2725345d-0208-4b37-b9c6-3a79235b6435
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
65000 - 85000 GBP Annual
Location
London
Team
Technology
Locations
London
Description
We are looking for a Full Stack Engineer with focus on Frontend with experience using React & TypeScript to join our Product Discovery team.The Product Discovery team is the shop window to the world o
Reference
d2bc269a-113b-4e59-adc9-190387b4acd5
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Articles you might like
.jpeg)
Teaser
Diversity Equity & InclusionContent Type
BlogPublish date
07/29/2025
Summary
Our Wise Parents and Carers Community recently brought everyone together for a 'Connecting Our Wise Parents on Leave' event 🎉 Check out their insights from the event ⬇️ Annika Teede, o

by
Verona Hasani

Teaser
People profileContent Type
BlogPublish date
07/28/2025
Summary
Caroline Corbett-Thompson, ESG Manager, dives into the meaningful work happening behind the scenes at Wise ⬇️ “Collaboration and patience are vital if you're looking to make a real

by
Verona Hasani
.jpeg)
Teaser
People profileContent Type
BlogPublish date
07/22/2025
Summary
Amani, Engineer in our Budapest office, has transformed her passion for problem-solving into a vital role supporting our FinCrime teams 🚀Learn how Amani's journey at Wise is making a meaningf

by
Amani Albertsen
.jpeg)
Teaser
People profileContent Type
BlogPublish date
07/03/2025
Summary
From being a customer of 11 years to making a real impact as an Engineering Lead, Emanuele Blanco shares his journey to joining Wise, what keeps him motivated, and his advice for anyone lookin

by
Verona Hasani

Teaser
People profileContent Type
BlogPublish date
06/27/2025
Summary
We sat down with SK Saraogi, Head of Expansion APAC, to discuss our strategic expansion into Hyderabad, India 🇮🇳Read more to discover why Hyderabad is the perfect location for our second glo

by
Verona Hasani

Teaser
People profileContent Type
BlogPublish date
06/06/2025
Summary
Driven by a passion for growth and team development, discover how Anna Pavlics advanced from Agent to Team Lead in Wise's Fraud Prevention team 🚀 "We put tremendous effort into bui

by
Verona Hasani
.jpeg)
Teaser
Our cultureContent Type
BlogPublish date
05/21/2025
Summary
At Wise, we’re committed to supporting each other—through the wins, the tough days, and everything in between. That’s why we have a network of Mental Wellbeing Champions who are crucial in fos

by
Amani Albertsen
.jpeg)
Teaser
People profileContent Type
BlogPublish date
05/21/2025
Summary
Ilya Leyrikh, Senior Product Director at Wise, shares how he transforms customer experiences with innovative financial solutions 💰🔍 “Wise genuinely prioritises solving customer pr

by
Sapphire Birmingham
.jpeg)
Teaser
People profileContent Type
BlogPublish date
05/07/2025
Summary
Discover how Jessica Laporte, Organic Growth Lead Manager, navigates the dynamic world of content marketing at Wise 📸 “Every day is a lottery - you have to push creative boundaries

by
Sapphire Birmingham

Teaser
People profileContent Type
BlogPublish date
05/07/2025
Summary
From studying Law to transforming global payments, discover how Ollie Conetta, Senior Business Development Manager, joined Wise Platform 🚀 “At Wise, you’re not locked into a single

by
Verona Hasani