In Conversation with Katie O'Connell

Tell us about your background:

My entire career has been in leading the digital business for luxury good brands. I bring a unique mix of commercial acumen, analytical thinking, and digital innovation together with a passion for retail, beauty, and the fashion industry in general.

My most recent role was as the Global VP of Ecommerce at MCM, leading the brand's digital transformation and significant online channel growth, responsible for e-commerce, digital marketing, CRM, and customer experience for the fast-growing leather goods brand.

Prior to MCM, I led the digital growth for NYC brands such as Steven Alan, Elie Tahari, and the iconic Diane von Furstenberg. I have had the unique experience of joining these teams in early phases allowing me to direct digital strategy during a critical growth phase. My business approach has always been collaborative and customer-focused. I have a natural leaning towards empathy, harmony and development which serves me well as a leader in connecting customer needs and business growth.

Currently, I am pursuing an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh in an executive program designed to enhance business skills while preparing to be a catalyst for change.

I am looking for opportunities to consult, learn and continue to foster innovation in the retail, luxury and beauty industries in new and exciting ways.

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

I wish I had known how important it was to establish oneself as an industry leader. For example, I wish I had accepted opportunities to speak on panels but, early on, I was a bit averse to public speaking and shied away from the spotlight. Now that I am 20 years into my career, I wonder what I was so shy about. My confidence has grown over time.

Best career advice you've ever received?

I can't think of a piece of advice given to me but I can think of a tough piece of criticism I received. It's led me to think hard about my executive presence. I know that people want to follow someone who inspires them with hope and has a vision. It's important to be able to articulate and share that vision with others.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

Empathy, communication, and the ability to execute restoration- acknowledging a problem and resolving it.

What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far?

Honestly, it's right now. My last role was essentially eliminated in February and the department was moved to Europe. I anticipated that this may happen last year and I began an MBA program in hopes that it would give me an increased set of skills to discuss during the interview process. I'm about to start my 4th semester and it's been great.. but.. so far.. it hasn't gotten me in as many doors as I had hoped it would.

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

I love Redone x Hanes t-shirts and I have a pile of vintage Levi's that I saved from the 90's. You can make any outfit with a t-shirt and denim foundation.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-o-connell-15666653/

Instagram: @totallykatester