An interview with Nex Day co-founder Marianne Sepp, who currently serves as the CEO of the Zero Waste Estonia Foundation. Marianne brings a diverse background in event management, having previously worked with Estonia’s largest media house, Äripäev, and the international entrepreneurship program, European Innovation Academy.
What shaped you into the leader you are today?
My first experience in leadership came quite early. I was just 20 years old, full of energy and ambition, but had very little understanding of what it truly meant to lead people. I was essentially the “representative” of an international organization in Estonia, though the strategic decisions were made elsewhere. I managed a few store teams, but the project was unstable from the start — created out of conflicting emotions and disagreements among the owners. Eventually, the whole operation in Estonia collapsed under heavy debts and ended in bankruptcy. I left voluntarily before that happened, but not without consequences. I was cornered, threatened with police involvement, and accusations that I should take responsibility for a debt of 50,000 Estonian kroons. It was a deeply distressing time. We ended up at the police station, many relationships were damaged, and it took a toll on my mental health. Justice was eventually served, but the experience left a mark. It made me vow never to lead again.
But life has a way of surprising you. Interestingly, it wasn’t the failures but the positive leadership examples that truly shaped me. Over the years, I encountered three different female leaders who trusted me, supported me, and encouraged me to grow. Those uplifting experiences created a clear vision of the kind of leader I want to be. They also helped me recognize situations and people whose values are not aligned with mine.
What’s a leadership moment you’re most proud of – and why?
Staying true to myself. In one of my roles, I inherited a department that had gone through years of turmoil. Trust was broken, the pressure from top management was intense, and several departures had been messy and emotional. There were even attempts to discredit me. But I chose to stay authentic — I believed in the good in people, I supported them, and I was honest and open, even during tough times. And when the situation no longer aligned with my values, I chose to leave with integrity. I would always encourage my team members to do the same — to choose themselves when something no longer serves them. That, to me, is real leadership.
Why are you willing to invest your time and energy into building Nex Day?
I’ve worked in many organizations that display grand mission statements on their websites, but in reality, everyone’s focus is on the monthly KPIs. I guess you could call me a chronic world-fixer.
I believe leadership matters more than we think. It shapes our companies, as well as our communities, our families, and even our children. It impacts how healthy and happy we are as a society. Leadership culture can change the way we relate to one another and how strangers greet each other on the street. That broader impact is what drives me.
What does “leadership done differently” mean to you, personally?
It means giving people wings. Empowering them with the resources and trust they need to do their best work. When that happens, not only do organizations thrive, but so do the individuals. It creates ripple effects that positively impact the economy, our communities, and the environment in which we live.
What do you hope another leader walks away with after Nex Day?
A firm understanding that the old ways no longer work — and the clarity and knowledge to move forward differently. I hope they leave feeling empowered, inspired, and ready to lead with purpose.