Rebecca Kerper

I attribute my success to starting my career in the early days of dot-com startups, where there were no playbooks—just curiosity, urgency, and the willingness to figure things out as we went. That environment taught me to be resourceful, adaptable, and unafraid to lead through ambiguity. Over the years, I’ve carried that mindset into every role, whether at a fast-paced startup or a billion-dollar brand. My proudest achievement has been launching my own business after more than 25 years in corporate leadership. While helping others grow inside large organizations, I consistently saw a deeper need for purpose and personal clarity—needs I realized I could better serve through coaching. That realization gave me the courage to step out on my own and build something more human, more personal, and more impactful..

When I was interviewing for my first Director role, I felt completely prepared: I had built a solid strategy, delivered every answer with clarity, and brought my usual energy and confidence. I was known as someone who got results—who moved fast and made things happen. After one of the final interviews, I asked a Director I admired, “How did I do?” Her response: “You know, you could stand to be a little more vulnerable.” At the time, I didn’t know what to do with that. Vulnerability wasn’t something I had associated with leadership. But that one line cracked something open. It planted a seed that grew into one of the most important realizations of my career: that true leadership isn’t just about strength or certainty—it’s also about openness, humility, and the willingness to grow in front of others. That feedback changed the way I lead, coach, and show up. It’s a reminder I still carry with me today.

Trust your voice, even when it shakes. Early in your career, it’s easy to defer to the loudest person in the room or question whether you belong at the table. But your perspective matters. Speak up. Ask the smart question. Share the idea. The more you use your voice, the stronger it gets. Also—play the long game. There will be seasons where you’re underestimated, overlooked, or stretched thin. Don’t let those moments define your worth. Focus on building skills, relationships, and resilience. Every step you take is part of a bigger arc, even if it doesn’t feel that way yet. And finally, find your people. The right mentors, allies, coaches and friends will remind you who you are when you start to forget. Surround yourself with those who challenge and cheer for you—and be that person for others, too.

One of the biggest challenges I see in the industry today is the pressure to constantly chase the next big trend—whether it’s AI, social shopping, or the latest platform shift. The pace of change is real, but reacting to everything isn’t a strategy. What leaders truly need is a deeper understanding of how to leverage technology in ways that align with their business goals and customer needs. My focus is on helping leaders cut through the noise, stay grounded, and unlock the real potential of digital transformation—not just to keep up, but to lead with clarity, purpose, and sustainable growth.

Some of the values I hold most important—both personally and professionally—are authenticity, balance, and connection. From early on in my career, I made a commitment not to feel guilty about taking time for myself or my family, and likewise not to feel guilty about dedicating myself fully to my work. That balance allows me to show up as my true self and create meaningful connections with others. I believe you can only succeed and lead effectively when you are at your best. Outside of work, I nurture this balance by reading, exploring nature, taking pottery and watercolor classes, and spending time with my family.