About Mariana

'My career didn't start with a straight line—it started with curiosity, courage, and a love for making people think differently. Fast-forward 16 years, and I've had the privilege of working with leaders from some of Australia's most respected organisations—Amazon, BHP Group, Coles, Commonwealth Bank, The Australian National University, and the Australian Government—helping them navigate complexity, build trust, and drive lasting change.'

“Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.”

– Brené Brown

As a change management and leadership development consultant with over 16 years of experience across Australia and internationally, Mariana’s guided leaders and teams through transformative moments, whether adapting to change, fostering collaboration, or driving cultural shifts. 


Throughout her career, Mariana has been guided by her core values—perseverance, integrity, community, fun, and courage. These principles fuel her work at Elevative, where she combines her expertise and experiences to help leaders and teams achieve their goals while fostering cultures of growth, collaboration, and impact.

A global career with impact

With experience spanning government, corporate, and not-for-profit sectors, Mariana has developed a multifaceted approach to leadership and change. She has worked with Executive Level 1 and 2 leaders in government, coached professionals across industries, facilitated dynamic workshops that help organisations align their people to their vision and advised on employee-centered strategies that empower transformation. Her coaching portfolio is broad, but her focus is clear: helping leaders effectively communicate, inspire action, and build workplaces where people can thrive.

What sets Mariana apart is her style— direct yet empathetic, practical yet inspiring. She doesn’t just deliver frameworks; she creates experiences that challenges assumptions and spark action. Whether coaching rising stars or facilitating strategic planning, she brings clarity and focus to help leaders tackle today’s challenges with confidence.

“At the heart of everything I do is the H2H approach, the human connection. It's not just about strategy—it's about people, their stories, and how we can grow together."

– Mariana Marcano Franco

Expertise and credentials

Mariana is a certified organisational coach through the Institute of Executive Coaching and Leadership (IECL) (Level1 and level 2) and has completed life coaching training with Tony Robbins training team. She also holds certifications in Hogan Assessments (HPI, HDS, MVPI and 360), a master’s degree in business management from Swinburne University of Technology, and a Bachelor’s degree in Corporate Communications. She is a former SCMP-certified member of the Global Communication Certification Council.

Mariana is fluent in English and Spanish and has gained international consulting experience that lends her a rich, culturally aware approach to leadership and team development.

“Growth requires intention, consistency, and frequency. It's the steady commitment to these principles that turns potential into progress.” – Mariana Marcano Franco

Beyond the workplace

Public speaking is one of Mariana’s lifelong passions, and she has won multiple awards for her speeches. One of her proudest achievements was clinching three consecutive public speaking and leadership contests with Toastmasters International, captivating audiences with her inspirational speech, “From Perfect to Imperfect.” 

Outside of work, Mariana is a passionate volunteer. She actively supports Vinnies Night Patrol, helping community members in need, and contributes to Special Olympics Venezuela, a cause close to her heart as her sister has Down Syndrome. 

As the Director of Diplomacy for the Australia Latam Emerging Leaders Dialogue (ALELD), she mentors emerging leaders and fosters international connections. In this role, she successfully organised and moderated the Women in Leadership Panel Event in 2024, which attracted over 70 attendees from different cultures and industry backgrounds who reported feeling inspired and moved by the discussions. Mariana also introduced a mentorship program following the event, connecting 12 diverse mentors with participants to support their ongoing development.

A personal touch

At home, Mariana enjoys spending time with her husband Gabriel and Cotufa, their charismatic cat, who ensures there's never a dull moment at home. Her personal journey of migrating across countries has instilled in her a deep appreciation for resilience, adaptability, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

When she’s not providing advice, coaching or facilitating workshops, you’ll find her at the gym, practising yoga, or exploring new dance styles like commercial choreography—a fast-paced adventure she’s loving despite its challenges.

As a global adventurer, Mariana has explored six continents, immersing herself in diverse cultures, traditions, and ways of life. These experiences have expanded her thinking, deepened her perspective, and fueled her appreciation for the richness of our world. With Antarctica as the final destination on her continents bucket list, she can’t wait to complete this journey of discovery!