2014 Game Changer: Claudia Riccomagno

When Microsoft Corp. changed its performance review process last year to sync it with its business goals, Claudia Riccomagno led the way, working with human resources at subsidiaries globally to roll out the new program.

Riccomagno, 32, an HR manager at the software company’s Italy campus, is the implementation lead for Microsoft International and has also been instrumental in talent development and onboarding efforts. She has helped organize quarterly employee meetings and small group breakfasts between employees and company leaders and developed Microsoft’s strategy for high-potential employees.

“She manages to balance pragmatism with patience and decisiveness to lead her virtual team of global HR professionals as we navigate through significant change for the organization,” said Theresa McHenry, Microsoft’s HR director in the United Kingdom, in a written statement.

Riccomagno joined the company in 2006.