Celebrating Women’s History Month: Angelica Cognac, Employee Spotlight Series

As we continue celebrating Women’s History Month, our second spotlight goes to Angelica Cognac, Senior Accounts Payable Associate. A former U.S. Marine, Angelica is known for being a number-cruncher by day, and a video producer by night. Angelica’s uplifting personality brings light into any room she walks into. We’re so lucky to have Angelica as part of the Perform^[cb] team!

Q: Which female historical figure has been an inspiration to you?

There are so many women in history that have led the path for the rest of us in the fight for equality and inclusion. Thinking back to my military roots, women have continuously been breaking barriers to push their way into being seen and accepted in the armed forces. My biggest inspiration would have to be Admiral Michelle Howard. She has truly been breaking barriers since the start of her career. She became the first woman to command a U.S. Navy ship, the first to achieve both two- and three-star ranks, the first woman of the U.S. Naval Academy selected for flag rank, and the first woman to become a four-star Admiral, among many other accomplishments. With these rankings, she not only became the first woman but also the first African American to hold the post of Vice Chief of Naval Operations. She was also the leader of the Counter-Piracy Task Force in 2009, in which she was responsible for ensuring the survival of Captain Phillips. Through collaborating with different countries, different branches of the armed forces, and intelligence support groups, they were able to coordinate negotiations and ensure the success of rescuing Captain Phillips. The barriers that she broke through in her 36 years of service demonstrated the power, intelligence, adaptability, and perseverance of a woman with a dream.

Q: If you have a role model or female figure of inspiration within Perform^[cb], please provide some details around who they are and how they inspire or drive you?

It’s hard to just pick one person. For myself, the most influential people in this organization would have to be the entire Accounting team. They are the type of people that never give up no matter the challenge that may lie ahead. We all boost each other up, and they embody the definition of what being a team player really means.

Q: As a working mother, how does the company support your work-life balance?

As we first transitioned to working remotely in 2020, they made a lot of effort to help us balance work with having the children at home. They understood the best support they could give us was allowing for a flexible schedule and the ability to work from home or in the office, out of our preference. At the same time, the culture with the parents in the company is outstanding. So many moms count on each other during difficult times and the company allows us to talk freely about our current parental experiences. The best way to describe it is a community of parents helping each other.

Q: If you could give your teenage or childhood self a piece of advice, what would it be?

Always do your best to be patient – you can’t expect a diamond to form overnight! It’s important to understand that every life experience is a lesson for the future. While there may be moments where it seems nothing can go your way, just remember that those tough moments will transform you into greatness. Much like how that diamond is formed through centuries of pressure, we have to remember the same for ourselves. 

Q: How has Perform^[cb] helped nurture your career development?

I’ve always been a strong believer that if you surround yourself with passionate, driven individuals, you will eventually adapt to their behaviors, beliefs, and passions. I am lucky to work and be surrounded by extremely motivated individuals who constantly push themselves and the people around them to be better and do better. They are constantly striving to improve. I started at Perform^[cb] as an Accountant Assistant and have gradually made my way up to the position I have now. Although for two years, I was extremely self reserved. I didn’t talk much and did only what was requested of me. I don’t know at what moment exactly I started changing. I started craving more, wanting more, pushing to become more. It was because of my mentors that I am who I am today. They were able to identify my potential and really allow me to run with all of the ideas I would have. They trusted in my abilities and instincts. They made me jump completely out of my comfort zone to really learn my true potential.  Every person in this company has played an important role in the development of my career. The relationships that I have built are the foundation of my growth.

Q: What do you enjoy most about Perform^[cb]’s company culture?

This company has always been so accepting and welcoming. They do a great job of working to accommodate everyone’s personal and professional needs. Everyone always has a voice when it comes to sharing ideas for cultural events and traditions, which I really appreciate.

Q: What would be your advice to other women entering this industry?

Embrace and support all of the women around you. The growth I have seen within myself and my career has come from the support I’ve received from the women in this organization continuously lifting each other up. Additionally, don’t be scared to step out of your comfort zone. The people around you will see the potential you might not see in yourself – growth comes from situations that might initially be out of your comfort zone.

Q: What’s a fun fact about yourself?

I served in the United States Marine Corp. I became a Surrogate and received tremendous support from Perform^[cb] during that time. During my free time, I really enjoy working on video editing and creating meaningful stories through those videos.

Join Our Team!

At Perform^[cb], we take immense pride in being a woman-led company. We strive to foster a culture that inspires the next generation of female leaders in performance marketing and beyond. Do you think bigger? Check out our current openings and join us if you think Perform^[cb] would be a good fit for you!