Inside YOUNG: Valeria Zancaner, Head of Business Development

Things move fast at YOUNG, and the people behind the scenes keep it all moving. In this series, Inside YOUNG, we shine a light on the ones juggling big ideas, full agendas, and bold plans. First up: Valeria Zancaner, Head of Business Development in Spain. She is living proof that focus, ownership and CrossFit can take you a long way.

FROM LUNGES TO LAUNCHES
Valeria’s day starts long before the first Slack message hits. She’s up at 5AM and in a CrossFit class by 6:45: a daily ritual she calls a non-negotiable. As a proud member of the 5 AM Club, she swears by waking up before the rest of the world. “It clears my head and sets the tone.” That physical discipline flows straight into her role as Head of Business Development, where the pace is high and priorities shift fast. Her main focus is venture strategy, investment decisions, and partnership building, but ask her what holds it all together, and she’ll tell you: communication. “This might sound like a cliché, but communication is everything. Transparent conversations, clear goals, and a shared sense of purpose make all the difference.”

PROGRESS IN THE CHAOS
Ask Valeria why she does what she does, and her eyes light up. “The team we’ve built in Valencia, their energy, drive, the results… It all reminds me that great people create great companies.” That sense of progress is what fuels her most, even when the pressure’s on. “When things get chaotic, I zoom out. Focus on what matters. Don’t overcomplicate it.” She leads with a mix of calm and boldness, trusting logic over emotion, and never afraid to move fast. “In this world, waiting too long can be riskier than making a bold call.”

THE POWER OF DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES 

Working across borders brings challenges, especially when it comes to communication styles. “But I love it,” she says. “It’s enriching. Different perspectives lead to better ideas and more personal growth.” Still, she keeps one value consistent across cultures: radical transparency. It’s the foundation that keeps teams clear-headed and connected, no matter the distance.

MAKE IT HAPPEN

Valeria’s energy doesn’t just come from early mornings and workouts. It mostly comes from progress. From turning ideas into something real, and from working with people who care just as much as she does. “Being surrounded by ambitious, talented people gives me so much energy.” Her advice to future YOUNG talent? Take ownership. “If you see something that can be done better: go do it. That’s how you grow. And how you help others grow too.” 

JOIN VALERIA AND TEAM

Curious what it’s like to be part of Valeria’s team? We’re always on the lookout for people who like to make things happen. Check out our latest roles at …