The Fabbys: Alex Williamson, Chief Brand Officer of Bumble

Feature Image by @williamson

After years of experience in film and production, Alex Williamson was offered a three-month contract at Bumble to oversee the brand’s social media. Now, she works as the Chief Brand Officer and has since helped shape the brand to what it is today.

Through her work at Bumble and as a female leader in the tech space, Williamson hopes to empower women to never stop hustling and “to build more seats at the table for women in the future.” Check out our exclusive interview with the #ladyboss below.

Why do you think it’s important for women to be in positions of leadership?
Representation matters. In order to cultivate the next generation of leaders, future leaders need to see people who look like them in a various array of leadership positions across many industries. That also means we need diverse representation in leadership across all genders, sexual orientations, ethnicities, and socio-economic backgrounds.

What does success mean to you?
Success is being able to look yourself in the mirror and see a person who you are proud to know. For me, this is rooted in values and integrity, and knowing that I’ve tried my best to put good in the world. I think you can do this wherever you are, in whatever job you have.

What kind of legacy do you hope to leave for women in your industry?
I hope to leave a legacy of kindness and empowerment. I think bringing your authentic self to the office to bring your unique perspective to a brand is so important, and I hope more women feel supported to do that. We also want to be known for building more seats at the table for women in the future. I really hope to be involved in lots of other people’s success. That’s the dream – to have helped people find their potential.

What’s the best advice you could ever give?
I’ve always believed that if you’re enthusiastic, hungry, and ready to hustle for what you’re doing, that becomes an unstoppable force. The connection I had with the brand’s mission to end misogyny and empower women inspired me to be innovative and think outside the box. This is also how I was able to turn my three-month contract position into a full-time position and ultimately grow within Bumble. Ignore what everyone else is doing so you can stand out and build something uniquely your own.

How do you drown out the negative criticism and stay authentic to yourself?
When we were first launching Bumble, so many people told us “no” and that our idea would never work. Whitney always reminded the early team to “keep your blinders on like a racehorse.” Meaning: Ignore the negativity. Just keep moving forward toward your goal with complete faith and belief in what you’re doing.

How do you define happiness?
Happiness is being kind to yourself and being surrounded by people who are kind to you too. Oh, and a sense of humor. Take your work seriously, but lighten up on yourself. We’re all doing the best we can.

When things get crazy, what’s one thing you always remember to do for yourself?
Check in with my friends and family. It’s so important for me to be connected with them. They help keep me grounded and feel supported.

What’s the last movie or book you’ve read that made you feel empowered?
Heart Talk by Cleo Wade. She’s one of my favorite people, and her poetry is incredibly moving. She encourages readers to rip out pages that speak to them and post them around the house, which is an idea I especially love. I’ve been trying to prioritize myself and my own well-being, and I feel like this book is one of the first things I pick up when I need extra encouragement.

xx, The FabFitFun Team

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