ReDefine Centre Stage – Interview with Maria Amador Batista

Get ready to give a standing ovation for our new profile series, ReDefine Centre Stage! In this series, we’ll be shining a light on the spectacular individuals who work across our global studios. Every two weeks, a different team member will take the stage to share their experiences, insights and advice.

1. How did you get your start in facility management?

It all started in London where I lived for quite a few years! My career began in the hospitality industry and after managing restaurants for some time, I grew to top-level management. I’ve opened multiple restaurants for different fine-dining companies and casual dining as well. This was my initial entry point into facilities! ReDefine Barcelona is my first role in the VFX industry.

2. What’s the best thing about being a Facility Manager? 

No day is the same. I still have a fixed list of things to do but there is always a ton of variety. I love facing different challenges every day – it keeps work fun and energetic. I’m not one to be stuck at a desk all day – especially after leaving such a buzzing industry with lots of social interaction and movement. I still need that type of activity in my life!  

Another bonus of being a Facility Manager is getting to know everyone in the office. I talk to everyone every single day and I also get to meet people from outside the office as well, which keeps things interesting! 

3. Tell us about a career highlight! 

My career progression in London as the industry there is quite tough! Growing into operations and opening businesses has been some of the most rewarding moments of my career. Knowing that these businesses are still open and running to this day makes me feel so proud.

I’m proud to be part of the ReDefine Barcelona opening team with Dani Buhigas, our General Manager. To see all of the people in the office now – it’s amazing! We did it! 

4. Advice for anyone wanting to become a Facility Manager?

Attention to detail is very important. I would also mention commitment and multitasking. You need to be able to take on many different tasks and remain focused in order to get the job done. There’s no Facility Manager manual, so you’ve got to use your common sense and develop your multitasking skills. 

It is a great job for people who enjoy doing a bunch of different things at the same time. I’ve always been one of those people. If you enjoy juggling many priorities throughout the day, this is the job for you! 

It is also important to be able to adjust to the moment or situation without feeling too much frustration. There will be different challenges throughout the day and you’ll need to find creative ways to make things happen. Good communication skills are key as well. 

5. What is your favourite movie? 

‘Interstellar’. It is one of the movies I immediately loved and I still do.

6. What about your dream project? 

I would love to have my own business one day! My own restaurant or wine business would be amazing. 

7. What ReDefine studio would you like to work in for a day?

Los Angeles! That’s where all the stars are so why not? I’ve visited the states a couple of times but I haven’t been to California. 

8. Finally, what are 3 words you would use to describe ReDefine?

Creative, fun and ambitious! 

ReDefine is definitely a great place to be. I have enjoyed every single day here, the work is truly rewarding. The teams share a great bond and that’s what makes it a great place to work.

Shilpa Bhanushali Head of Production (Animation)

We have top-of-line professionals who are not only creative, but also fun to work with. It has created a lot of possibilities for reinventing workflows.

François Schneider Global Creative Supervisor, North America

The people who form ReDefine have come from varied experiences and all have the potential to develop and deliver world-class projects.

Viral Thakkar Creative Director and VFX Supervisor India