Luigi Di Lena - Leadership Coach & Technical Career Mentor

About me

You already know what you're capable of. What changes when you have someone in your corner is how quickly you get there.

★★★★★ 4.6/5 average rating — “He gave me concrete tips that no other coach had given me before.” — Andrea M.

I work with tech professionals globally — US, UK, Ireland, and across Europe. All sessions are remote, flexible across time zones.

I work with tech professionals who've hit a ceiling — talented people who know they're ready for the next level but can't quite see how to get there. As a Senior Security Engineer with 25+ years in the industry and 11 years at a leading global technology company, I bring the perspective of someone who's navigated those transitions firsthand. I currently work in cybersecurity and threat intelligence, combining deep technical expertise in cloud security, infrastructure protection, and security operations with proven leadership capabilities. I hold multiple GIAC security certifications, two AWS certifications, and a master's degree in Telecommunication Engineering.

My background spans team management, program leadership, and hands-on security engineering. I've led cross-functional teams, designed automated security workflows, and implemented real-time monitoring solutions across more than 300 enterprise services. My expertise encompasses cloud security architecture, incident detection and response, and building secure infrastructure at massive scale. I've been an independent ICT consultant since 2001, which gives me a unique perspective on helping businesses leverage technology to achieve their objectives.

Why I started coaching

I started coaching because I believe in giving back. Early in my career, a handful of exceptionally talented mentors took the time to share their knowledge and experience with me. That generosity made a lasting difference, and I see coaching as my opportunity to do the same for others. My approach is entirely experience-based and tailored to the individual. There's no rigid framework or one-size-fits-all methodology. Every person comes with different goals, different challenges, and a different starting point. I listen first, understand the context, and then work with you on what matters most to your specific situation. If you're at a point where you're ready to move forward but want someone in your corner who understands the terrain — that's exactly what this is for.

Areas of expertise

Coaching and mentoring services

You might be preparing for an interview at a company you've always wanted to work for. Or stepping into a leadership role that feels bigger than you expected. Or simply knowing it's time for something to change — without being sure what. Wherever you are, the coaching starts from your reality and works forward. Most engagements begin with an introductory call to understand your situation, followed by sessions as you see fit. There's no rigid plan unless you want one, and no long-term commitment. You set the pace.

What you'll gain

• Interview Confidence: Walk into interviews at Amazon, Google, or Microsoft knowing exactly how to present your experience — because you've already done it in a realistic simulation with honest feedback
• A Resume That Opens Doors: Stop wondering why you're not getting callbacks. Get specific, actionable feedback that makes recruiters stop scrolling
• Career Clarity: Know exactly what your next step is — and have a concrete plan to get there, whether that's a promotion, a pivot, or a bigger role elsewhere
• Leadership That Works: Lead your team with confidence, not guesswork. Practical approaches to the real challenges of managing people, programs, and politics
• Technical Depth: Sharpen your cloud security, infrastructure, and operations knowledge with insights from someone who does this work daily at global scale
• 25+ Years of Pattern Recognition: Benefit from someone who's seen hundreds of career paths unfold — and knows which moves actually work

How it works

Coaching starts with a 30-minute introduction session where we get to know each other. It's an open conversation about where you are, where you want to go, and how I might help. From there, you decide what comes next. Some people book a single focused session on a specific challenge. Others come back regularly over weeks or months as they work through a career transition or prepare for interviews. The format is entirely up to you. Learn more about why working with an independent coach like me offers a different experience from coaching platforms.

Everything discussed in our sessions is completely confidential. You don't need to work in technology to benefit, though most of my clients do come from technical backgrounds. My coaching isn't about giving you ready-made answers. It's about helping you develop the thinking, the confidence, and the clarity to find your own path forward.

"One of the most useful 30 minutes I have spent on my career in a long time. Luigi looked at my actual situation and pointed out things I had completely overlooked." — David K.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be in the tech industry to work with you?

No. While most of my clients come from technology backgrounds, my coaching covers career development, leadership, and professional growth topics that apply across industries. The skills involved in navigating a career transition, preparing for interviews, or stepping into a leadership role are not exclusive to tech. If you have a professional development need and want guidance from someone with deep industry experience, you're welcome regardless of your field. I've worked with professionals from security engineering, software development, product management, and non-technical roles alike.

How many coaching sessions will I need?

That depends entirely on your situation and goals. Some people get what they need from a single focused conversation about a specific challenge or decision. Others prefer ongoing support over several weeks or months as they work through a career transition, prepare for a series of interviews, or develop their leadership capabilities. You are never locked into a package or a fixed number of sessions. There is no minimum commitment. Book what makes sense for you, when it makes sense, and stop whenever you feel ready. Most people know within the first session whether this is valuable for them. That's why the introduction call exists — so you can decide based on experience, not guesswork.

Is coaching confidential?

Yes, completely. Everything discussed during our sessions stays between us. There are no exceptions to this rule. Whether you're discussing career frustrations, interview preparation strategies, salary negotiations, or challenges with your current role, nothing leaves the conversation. This confidentiality is fundamental to creating the trust needed for honest, productive coaching. Many clients appreciate this because it allows them to speak freely about situations they can't discuss with colleagues or managers.

What is the difference between coaching and consulting?

Coaching is not about giving you ready-made answers or telling you what to do. It is about helping you develop the skills, perspective, and confidence to find your own solutions. Think of it as learning to fish rather than being handed a fish. A consultant might review your resume and hand you a finished product. A coach works with you to understand what makes your experience compelling, helps you articulate your value clearly, and builds your ability to do this independently in the future. The goal is lasting capability, not temporary fixes.

Do I need to commit to a coaching plan?

No. Sessions are booked individually and there's no formal plan unless you specifically want one. My approach stays flexible so it can adapt as your needs evolve. Some clients start with a career transition goal and discover along the way that leadership development matters more to them. Others come for interview preparation and realize they want broader career strategy support. Flexibility means the coaching always serves your current priorities rather than following a predetermined script that may no longer fit.

What results can I expect from career coaching?

Clients typically gain clarity on their career direction, stronger interview performance, and improved confidence in leadership situations. Many go on to secure roles at top technology companies or earn promotions within their current organizations. Outcomes vary because every person starts from a different place with different goals, but the coaching is designed to create real, practical progress. According to the International Coaching Federation, over 80% of coaching clients report increased self-confidence and more than 70% see improved work performance.

Book your session

Choose the session that matches where you are right now. Not sure which one? Start with the 30-minute introduction — most clients tell me it's the most productive half hour they've spent on their career in months.

"Very direct, no fluff. Left with a clear idea of what to fix before applying." — Rachel W.

You'll select a time, receive a video call link by email, and we'll talk. No forms to fill, no prep required — just show up with your questions.