In Conversation with Alexa Steiner
Tell us about your background:
I grew up in the wonderful city of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, and have been working remotely from here since March when I decided to take a short break from my tiny NYC apartment. Never quite sure what I wanted to be when I grew up, I graduated with a degree in Political Science and Sociology from Western University (in Canada), worked for a few years in different industries, and then pursued further education in Communications. Following that, I worked in communications and strategy roles for a Sustainable Development department with a branch of government for a number of years (sexy, right?). That work was instrumental in helping me realize my desire to try to help solve complex problems and find solutions that leave the world a little bit better off (cliche I know, but true). With that newfound fire, I decided to go back to school to pursue an MBA in Sustainable Innovation in the beautiful state of Vermont, because when leaving Canada, I surely needed to be in the state with the most similar climate to home (sigh... still dreaming of California). Seriously though, if you haven’t been to Vermont, I highly recommend visiting! And if you go, I’d be happy to suggest hikes, ice cream shops (they call ice cream cones “Creemees” there... it’s a term I never fully embraced), and plenty of lake view spots.
After completing my MBA, I made the journey to New York City, where I was lucky enough to land a consulting gig with the sustainable sneaker startup, Thousand Fell -- my very first first dip into the vast and complex fashion ocean. In my (short) time in NYC, I have continued to work with Thousand Fell, while also working with other organizations across industries as a Sustainability & Innovation Consultant and project manager. Upon my arrival in NYC, I also had the pleasure of being connected with Kristy and am working with her to grow the sustainability & corporate social responsibility piece of her business. (And am now part of this amazing group because of her).
I help organizations innovate strategically, prioritizing sustainability and social impact, helping them uncover the opportunities that lie within sustainable innovation. To not just focus on environmental impact, but on social and economic sustainability as well. I will actually be officially launching my own consulting business soon to keep doing this type of work! As I dive deeper with clients in the fashion space, I hope to help solve (in some small way) the giant problems that exist in fashion -- like transparent and ethical supply chains, huge issues of waste, and so much more.
Alexa pictured here kayaking near Vancouver, BC. Not quite the Hudson, right?
What has been the biggest challenge in the transition into consulting?
For me, one constant challenge is the fact that everyone defines sustainability differently. It is a giant word that really is hard to define. The simple definition that has always made the most sense to me is: meeting the needs of the present, without compromising the potential needs of the future (for ALL humans, and for all things).
When applied to different industries, that definition can mean something new and specific every time. Finding common ground and areas for innovation is what excites me about the type of consulting I am doing, but is also the biggest challenge!
Oh, and Imposter Syndrome - fighting that one every damn day! Got any tips?
What do you wish you’d known when you started out?
That it’s totally fine to have a winding path!!! I don’t think I will be the type to have a linear career, and for a little while I was ashamed of that. Every experience I have leaves me better equipped to handle the next one!
Best career advice you've ever received?
“Networking” should not be or feel transactional. Meet people with the intention of truly listening and learning from their journeys. Real relationships will get you farther in life than any piece of paper or transaction.
Also - always be a student. Learning shouldn’t end, ever.
What leadership qualities are important to you?
Humility and empathy. I like reading about different leadership styles, but taking it all with a grain of salt, as I believe we are all capable of growing and harnessing different aspects of our own leadership abilities depending on circumstance.
I have always appreciated leaders who recognize that they can learn something from everyone in the room. Ones who can break down the (in my opinion - weird and unnecessary) barriers that exist within power structures. To me, that is the type of leadership necessary to move through difficult times and come out the other side having grown and evolved.
Humor too! What’s work without some fun?
And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?
At this point, I can’t even remember what dressing up feels like anymore… can you?
My quarantine uniform consists of black joggers, my Tentree t-shirts and hoodies (a great Canadian company that plants trees for every item sold), and of course my Thousand Fell lace up sneakers!
I am so grateful to Kristy for bringing me into this amazing group. I have already learned so much from so many of you here! Please reach out and connect:
Email Alexa at: alexa.steiner7@gmail.com
Connect with her on Linkedin
Social media isn’t her thing. She says she’ll save that for the pros :)
