Modern-day leadership isn’t just about titles—it’s about impact. Few embody this better than Raffy Sgroi, Founder of Sage Advice, who has shattered barriers in the male-dominated automotive industry. From arriving in Australia without knowing English to becoming the driving force behind CMS and Sage Advice, her journey is one of resilience, innovation, and purpose.
Under her guidance, CMS has become a pioneer in sustainability and diversity, with 40% of its trainees being women. Her “My Portfolio Career” program has transformed the lives of over 80 students, giving them the skills and confidence to thrive. An advocate for inclusion and workplace equity, she challenges norms, inspires change, and leads with authenticity—emerging as one of The Most Influential Women Leaders to Follow in 2025.
The Evolving Role of Leadership
Modern business leadership places a greater importance on inclusivity, adaptability, and empathy. Visionary leaders now recognize diversity, equity, and inclusion not merely as corporate policies but as fundamental cultural shifts within their organizations. To succeed in today’s dynamic and competitive environment, leaders must cultivate emotional intelligence, embrace change with agility, and remain steadfast in their commitment to sustainability. Fostering a workplace culture rooted in collaboration and innovation is essential, as is leading with authenticity and the ability to inspire and motivate teams toward shared success.
A Journey of Resilience and Purpose
Raffy’s professional journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and perseverance. Relocating from Milan to Australia over two decades ago, she faced the challenge of starting anew. As she adapted to a new culture and built her career, she developed a profound awareness of the obstacles women and marginalized groups encounter in the workplace.
A pivotal moment came when she recognized the power of her experiences to drive meaningful change in the traditionally male-dominated automotive industry. Committed to reshaping the narrative, she has dedicated herself to empowering women and underrepresented individuals, fostering an inclusive and thriving professional environment.
Overcoming Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry
Raffy Sgroi faced one of her greatest challenges in navigating a highly competitive, male-dominated industry while striving to drive meaningful change. Gaining credibility and challenging long-standing stereotypes in a field where leadership roles had historically been inaccessible to women demanded strong determination.
Beyond breaking barriers, she undertook the demanding task of building a business from the ground up, all while balancing personal responsibilities and overcoming health challenges. These experiences strengthened her resilience and deepened her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity in the business world.
Inspirational Figures and Leadership Values
Raffy Sgroi draws inspiration from leaders who have the ability to achieve business success while uplifting others along the way. Her greatest influence has been her father, who instilled in her the values of hard work, compassion, and perseverance. She also admires trailblazers like Indra Nooyi and Joyce Clague—leaders who have demonstrated that true success extends beyond financial gains to creating a lasting, positive impact.
Joyce Clague, a Yaegl Elder, played a pivotal role in advocating for social change, influencing the 1967 referendum, and leading efforts to increase voting enrollment among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, resulting in 6,500 additional registrations. Their legacies reinforce Raffy’s belief in leadership as an advocate for empowerment and inclusivity.
A Multifaceted Leadership Role
As the founder and director of CMS and Sage Advice, Raffy Sgroi takes on a dynamic and multifaceted role—guiding the companies’ strategic direction, business development, and overall growth. She remains deeply engaged in client relationship management and coaching, ensuring that every aspect of the business reflects the core values of inclusion, sustainability, and empowerment.
Beyond operations, she leads initiatives that foster workplace diversity and is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of leaders. A passionate advocate for policy reform and industry best practices, she strives to drive cultural shifts within the automotive and business sectors, championing a more inclusive and equitable professional landscape.
Staying Ahead in an Evolving Business Landscape
Raffy Sgroi remains at the forefront of industry advancements by actively participating in seminars, workshops, and webinars that keep her informed about evolving market dynamics. Committed to continuous learning, she cultivates strong connections with fellow business leaders and mentors, exchanging insights that drive innovation and growth. She also harnesses technology and digital tools to stay ahead of trends, particularly in sustainability, diversity, and inclusivity. As an engaged member of various business groups and associations, she ensures that her approach remains aligned with the latest industry practices and emerging innovations.
A Workplace Built on Inclusion and Empowerment
At CMS and Sage Advice, Raffy Sgroi has cultivated a workplace culture where every employee feels valued and heard. The company prioritizes flexible working arrangements and fosters an environment of collaboration and mutual respect. With a strong commitment to diversity, CMS and Sage Advice have implemented inclusive policies that support personal and professional growth.
What sets the company apart is its dedication to empowering individuals, regardless of their background or abilities. Raffy Sgroi firmly believes that when employees feel supported and included, they thrive—driving both personal fulfillment and overall business success.
Balancing Business, Family, and Giving Back
Balancing multiple businesses with personal responsibilities is no small feat, but Raffy ensures that her family remains a top priority, which fuels her energy and sharpens the focus she needs to lead effectively.
She also values self-care, whether through quiet moments with a good book or taking time to recharge. Beyond her professional commitments, she is deeply passionate about giving back to the community. Her volunteer efforts are centered on initiatives that champion inclusivity and empowerment, particularly for women and neurodivergent individuals, reinforcing her dedication to creating a more equitable society.
Advice for Future Business Leaders
Raffy Sgroi encourages young business leaders to remain true to their values, embrace resilience, and challenge the status quo. She acknowledges that success is rarely a straight path but believes that dedication and a strong sense of purpose can drive meaningful impact. She also emphasizes the importance of mentorship, advising aspiring leaders to seek out those who inspire and support their growth. Above all, Raffy underscores that inclusivity and diversity are not just trends but fundamental principles for building a thriving, sustainable business.
5 Key Insights from Raffy Sgroi’s Journey
1. Resilience Fuels Success
From overcoming language barriers to excelling in a male-dominated industry, Raffy’s journey exemplifies the power of persistence. Her ability to navigate challenges and stay focused on her vision has been key to her success.
2. Inclusivity Drives Innovation
By fostering workplace diversity, Raffy has proven that inclusion is not just a value—it’s a strategy for business growth. Her efforts in increasing female participation in the automotive sector showcase the impact of diverse leadership.
3. Mentorship and Leadership Go Hand in Hand
Through her “My Portfolio Career” program, Raffy has empowered over 80 students, reinforcing the importance of guiding and uplifting the next generation of professionals.
4. Continuous Learning is Essential
Staying ahead in business requires adaptability. Raffy actively engages in industry events, leverages technology, and embraces innovation to keep her companies at the forefront of change.
5. Purpose-Driven Leadership Creates Lasting Impact
More than financial success, Raffy’s leadership is about making a difference—whether through policy advocacy, community engagement, or workplace empowerment. Her work highlights that true leadership is about leaving a meaningful legacy.
About The Leader
| Name: Raffy Sgroi |
| Designation: Founder |
| Company Name: Sage Advice |
| Company Website: sageadvice.au |
Raffy Sgroi: Transforming Industries Through Impactful Initiatives
1. CMS – A Leading Automotive Repair Center
- Focuses on sustainability and inclusivity
- Transformed CMS into an industry leader
- 40% of trainees are women in a traditionally male-dominated field
2. Empowering the Next Generation
- Founder of the “My Portfolio Career” program
- Trained over 80 students in the last three years
- Provides essential skills and confidence for workforce transition
3. Recognized for Leadership & Inclusion
- Recipient of the Gold Stevie Award for Inclusive Leadership
- Honored with the National Champion Award for two consecutive years
- A strong advocate for women’s empowerment and workplace inclusivity
