Spotify × Northzone: A Growth Q&A | Panathēnea 2026

What does it take to build and scale products used by millions around the world? At Panathēnea 2026, Ana Sandra Ruiz, Senior Director, Growth & International Expansion at Spotify joins Elena Pantazi, Principal at Northzone, for a conversation on growth, product strategy, and building companies that achieve global scale. As digital products compete for attention in increasingly crowded markets, sustainable growth requires far more than acquiring users. Drawing on experience from one of the world's leading technology platforms and one of Europe's top venture capital firms, Ruiz and Pantazi explore the strategies behind product-led growth, customer engagement, experimentation, and long-term value creation. The discussion examines how successful companies identify growth opportunities, build high-performing teams, and balance rapid expansion with exceptional user experiences. It also explores the evolving role of AI, data, and product innovation in shaping the next generation of global technology businesses. Whether you're a founder, product leader, growth marketer, investor, or technology enthusiast, this session offers valuable insights into scaling products and companies in today's competitive landscape. Panathēnea is an international festival bringing together founders, investors, scientists, artists, and innovators to explore the future of technology, entrepreneurship, and culture in Athens. The 2026 edition welcomed more than 11,500 participants from over 60 countries.