Alumni Spotlight: Tanja Gromadzki-Hobby ‘11

Following her passion and leaning into her strengths is how Tanja Gromadzki-Hobby ‘11 has been able to land her dream job in St. Pete, the city she calls home. 

After graduating from Shorecrest in 2011, Tanja attended the University of Miami where she graduated in three years with a bachelor’s in Business Administration. She then returned to St. Petersburg and pursued a law degree from The Stetson University College of Law. Halfway through this program Tanja dual enrolled at the University of South Florida Saint Petersburg to complete her Master of Business Administration. 

“I received my Juris Doctor in 2017 and completed my MBA in 2019. I am also a Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP). Lastly, and more recently, I am a member of the Leadership St. Pete Class of 2025,” shared Tanja.

Tanja began her professional journey in a unique way. She joined Tech Data (now TD SYNNEX) as the Ethics & Compliance Analyst for the Americas shortly after graduating law school and only halfway through her MBA program. Within the first few weeks she knew that Ethics & Compliance was her calling. It was the right balance between using her legal education and business acumen. She quickly grew within the team and was promoted to the Ethics & Compliance Manager. 

After four years Tanja shifted to e-commerce when an opportunity opened on Chewy’s Corporate Compliance Team. “Being an animal lover, this opportunity was a dream of mine and gave me the opportunity to reflect on what brings me joy.”  

Tanja soon realized that her passion was in working for a global company with an international presence. In May 2023, she rejoined TD SYNNEX’s Legal Team as their Sr. Director, Ethics & Compliance, Americas, overseeing the Ethics & Compliance Program for North and South America.

Thinking back on her time at Shorecrest, Tanja reflects, “Shorecrest is a fundamental part of who I am. When I was five years old, my family moved from Germany to Florida. My sister and I were in culture shock! It took time for us to adjust and acclimate to our new normal; and Shorecrest was there every step of the way. The individualized attention, the support and care provided to not only my sister and me but also to my parents was exceptional and truly helped to shape me into who I am today!”

Tanja fondly remembers many Shorecrest events, such as Fall Festival, Poetry in the Park and a field trip to Ybor City with the Spanish Club. While at Shorecrest, Tanja was on the soccer and volleyball teams and participated in many clubs. “I also had a great time swimming with the manatee in Science Club! These experiences were so unique and helped me to explore destinations right in my backyard with some of my closest friends!”

Tanja’s advice to current Shorecrest students is “to stay curious and open-minded. Embrace every opportunity to learn, both inside and outside the classroom. Even if you are shy, don't be afraid to ask questions and seek help when you need it—everyone at Shorecrest is there to support you and everyone wants you to succeed! Remember to balance your studies with activities that you enjoy and that help you relax. Build strong friendships and cherish the moments you share with your classmates.”

Looking back, Tanja realizes how challenging Shorecrest's curriculum was, but it was this very challenge that prepared her for the future. The emphasis on strong communication skills at Shorecrest has been a cornerstone of her success, both academically and professionally. In her current role in Ethics & Compliance, she relies on these skills every day, whether she’s leading a training session or giving a presentation.

“I am extremely proud of where I am today. Being able to work at a Fortune 500 company in the place I call home is one of the most rewarding pieces of my journey. In my role, I can embrace my passion for culture and continuous learning every day through the engagements I have with coworkers across South America, Europe and Asia. I followed my passion, leaned into my strengths and focused on channeling my ambitions into the growing field of Ethics & Compliance,” shared Tanja.

On a personal note, Tanja is married to Jeffrey Hobby and is the proud dog mom to Waldo, a lovable nine-year-old yellow Lab mix. 

Sarah is one of many Alumni Chargers with a wonderful story to share. Alumni Spotlights reflect Chargers in all phases of their lives and careers after Shorecrest. If you have a story to share, please contact Olivia Segalman at [email protected].