What inspired you to pursue a career in ad tech/marketing, and how did you get started in the industry?
My journey into ad tech and marketing was driven by a fascination with the intersection of data, technology, and consumer behavior. I’ve always been intrigued by how platforms data to deliver targeted, meaningful experiences to users. What truly inspired me was the dynamic nature of digital advertising and its ever-evolving landscape. The ability to make data-driven decisions, measure results in real-time, and continuously optimize campaigns. As I delved deeper into digital advertising, I became particularly excited about exploring and expanding partnerships between various stakeholders in the ecosystem. I find it fascinating how quick technology and platforms evolve and find it exciting to work with publishers to create more effective and efficient campaigns
Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that helped shape you as a leader?
A pivotal moment in my career that significantly shaped me as a leader came as my team began to grow rapidly. This experience taught me a crucial lesson: understanding that everyone works differently is essential to effective leadership. As we were moving fast to accomplish our goals, I am quickly realizing that speed and results are not enough. I need to take a step back and recognize the diverse strengths, weaknesses, and working styles within our team. Moreover, I recognize that adaptability is key in our fast-paced industry and growing organization changes. As a leader, I need to quickly adjust my management style to accommodate changes in team dynamics, project requirements, and individual needs. Perhaps most importantly, I discovered the value of fostering clear and open communication. I am constantly working on creating an environment where team members are comfortable sharing ideas, concerns, and feedback, we were able to work more cohesively and efficiently.
What do you believe are the most important qualities of an effective leader in the ad tech/marketing space?
Adaptability is key with ever growing privacy and policy changes as well as evolving technology and user behavior.
What advice would you give to young women looking to enter ad tech or any other technology-driven field?
To young women looking to enter ad tech or any technology-driven field, I would offer this advice: First and foremost, do your homework. The tech industry, especially ad tech, is constantly evolving. Stay informed about the latest trends, technologies, and key players in the field. Read industry publications, follow thought leaders on social media, attend webinars or conferences when possible, and even listen to some audiobooks on the topic! This knowledge will give you a solid foundation and help you speak the language of the industry. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. In fact, I encourage it, it’s a great way to gain insights that you might not find through independent research. Seek to understand the space as deeply as possible. This goes beyond surface-level knowledge. Try to grasp the underlying mechanisms of how different technologies work, how they interact, and their impact on the broader digital ecosystem. This deeper understanding will set you apart and allow you to contribute more meaningfully to discussions and projects. Once you’ve done your homework and gained a solid understanding, it’s crucial to lead with confidence in your work. Trust in your abilities and the knowledge you’ve acquired. Your perspective and ideas are valuable, so don’t hesitate to share them. Remember that confidence comes from competence. As you continue to learn and grow in your role, your confidence will naturally increase. Embrace challenges as opportunities to expand your skills and prove your capabilities.
If there’s a woman who has inspired or mentored you in your career, can you share that story?
Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to encounter numerous inspiring women who have collectively shaped my professional journey. Rather than pointing to a single mentor, I’ve found inspiration in the diverse array of female leaders I’ve had the privilege to work with and observe in this industry. What strikes me most is their ability to wear multiple hats with grace and determination. Many of them juggle demanding careers with personal responsibilities, including motherhood, which adds another layer of admiration to their accomplishments. I’m inspired by women who speak up with confidence, share their insights and advocate for their teams. Their collective example has inspired me to push boundaries, take on new challenges, and continuously evolve in my career. They’ve also instilled in me a sense of responsibility to support and mentor other women in the industry, helping to create a more inclusive and diverse tech landscape.