Tell us about your background:

Hello! I’m Claire, a consultant at Prophet Brand Strategy, where I help companies think through creative solutions to complex strategic problems. Whether it's a meaty brand transformation of a Fortune 500 or big moves at small DTC startups, I love helping clients innovate and position themselves for the future.

My work and interests have taken me around the world, from Paris for study abroad (ask me how I got stranded in Europe during Covid!) to Russia for a Fulbright. I speak six languages (at varying degrees of fluency) and love bridging cultures to connect insights to the people they affect.

I have a background in fashion and art and nothing lights me up more than helping creatives put strategy behind their vision. Outside of work, I write a weekly newsletter about fashion and culture in New York. You can find more at cappuccinothoughts.substack.com. I also produce a line of upcycled vintage handbags, retrofitting each one with a new colorful lining and special details. You can see more at https://claire-akkan.myshopify.com/.

To see more of my work, visit claireakkan.com.

What do you wish you’d known when you started out?

I would tell myself to worry less about what comes next and focus on enjoying the ride—things have a way of working out.

Best career advice you've ever received?

To keep a low profile and high productivity.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

Empathy, honesty, and loyalty.

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

I'm biased, but I carry one of my bags everywhere! It's a vintage green suede Gucci bag with a bamboo handle, updated with a geometric green and purple lining. It's such a conversation starter!