When Larissa Isensee started working at her grandfather’s textile factory, which bears her surname, at the age of 14, she could hardly imagine that just over a decade later, she would be leading the business with a strategic vision that would turn it into a success. Today, at 26, she is the CEO of the only industry in Brazil specialized in manufacturing circular looms for fabrics using already scrapped machines, offering savings to its customers.
As a teenager, she took on the challenge of selling textile machinery. “I always wanted to understand every detail of what I was selling. Knowing how the machines worked was essential for me to instill confidence in customers,” she says. Her dedication to refining her sales techniques and deeply understanding the products made her a leader and sales expert at a very young age.
When her grandfather decided to retire, she saw an opportunity few would dare to seize. At just 22, she took over the governance of the company, leasing the factory with the challenge of rebuilding it. According to the 8th edition Women in the Boardroom, a survey conducted by Deloitte, a global consulting and auditing firm, only 6% of CEOs worldwide are women. “I never let myself be intimidated. What matters is how much you’re willing to learn and dedicate yourself,” she says.
At the time, the factory faced debts and modest annual revenues of R$1.2 million. Larissa, with her sales experience, identified the biggest problem: communication with customers. “I knew we needed to change how we connected with people. It wasn’t just about selling; we needed to inform and explain to our customers about the circular loom and its advantages,” she explains.
With this pivotal shift, which was crucial for the growth of her new business, she restructured her team, investing in specialized training. “Every employee needs to be an expert. They’re not just there to sell but to answer questions and build trust,” she emphasizes.
In just two years, the young CEO not only managed to renegotiate all the factory’s debts but also tripled its revenue, which jumped to nearly R$4 million in 2024.
One of the factory’s standout features is the manufacturing of circular looms from already scrapped machines, something unique in Brazil. This sustainable solution allows small entrepreneurs to save up to 70% on initial investment, providing access to high-quality equipment.
The innovation and excellence in customer service not only solidified her leadership in the national market but also opened new frontiers. Today, the company exports exclusive circular loom parts to all of Latin America, breaking barriers and taking Brazilian expertise beyond our borders.
Young yet determined, Larissa Isensee uses her sales expertise and leadership spirit to make her mark in the history of the Brazilian textile industry. For her, the secret to success lies in passion for what you do and the courage to innovate. “My greatest motivation has always been to show that with knowledge and determination, even the biggest challenges can be turned into opportunities.”
Larissa’s story is an inspiration for young entrepreneurs who dream of making a difference. ‘The future belongs to those who believe in the power of ideas and working responsibly. That’s the message I want to leave for everyone,’ concludes the young CEO.
