Merlinda Xarda is a first-generation Albanian immigrant who has worked for various organizations in different positions. She studied at Qasid University, Northeastern University, TSiBA University, the London School of Economics and Political Science, Meiji University, and Swinburne University of Technology.

Xarda has held many roles, including Senior Business Operations Analyst at Calm, Managing/Senior/Consultant at IBM, Advance Associate at Hillary for America, Researcher/Ethnographer at Harvard University & The Boston Consortium for Arab Regional Studies, Intern at The White House, Financial Aid Office Assistant at Northeastern University, Human Resources Co-op at Reit Management & Research LLC., Private Tutor at Concierge Services for Students, Massachusetts State Representative Intern at Massachusetts State House, Political Science Office Assistant at Northeastern University, Manager at Steve's Roast Beef, and more.

Xarda is passionate about collaborating with cross-functional teams, streamlining business operations, implementing strategic drivers that improve the status quo, and data-driven solutions. She is obsessed with organized planning, impact-driven work, and data-driven solutions. Outside of work, she enjoys being out in nature and trying out new recipes.