Our Lead(H)er series features impressive women leaders in the tech industry. In this Q&A, we are featuring Melissa Wainwright, Chief Operating Officer at Alloy Enterprises.
Where did you grow up and how would you describe yourself as a child?
I grew up on a farm in Indiana. I feel so fortunate to have grown up in a small community, surrounded by a large family, and really appreciating the value of hard work. I liked to be involved - school activities and sports, volunteering at the animal shelter, student government, etc. My siblings are several years younger than me, and babysat them regularly. I would hold “family meetings” which was pretty much me making them do what I wanted (perhaps the origin of my leadership tendencies?!?).
(I’m the one in the back rocking the gravity defying hair)
What did you study in college and what was your first job out of school?
I was interested in many things, but never really sure what I wanted to do as a career. I was good at math, so everyone suggested Engineering. So, I thought, why not? I knew I wanted to do something with people & process, and found Industrial Engineering to be the best fit. My first job was a process improvement role in a large company, directly using my degree.
Can you share the details on your career path and what were the critical moments that got you to where you are today?
This could be a long story! To sum it up, it’s all been about chasing the challenge and being open to new things. When I was ready for something new & challenging after my first job, I was open to moving anywhere, which landed me in the Boston area. I ended up being at that company for nearly 10 years, and continued to be open to anything - I took on new areas of the business, traveled all over the world, including spending a year in Mexico to set up a new facility. None of those things were planned, but I was willing to take on anything. That broad experience put me in a great position to expand and grow in my career, enabling the opportunities that followed.
What is your current role and responsibilities?
I recently joined Alloy Enterprises as COO. I’m so excited to be part of this innovative and diverse, growing team. I’ve come here to be a builder…building processes, teams, and space to scale the company.
Looking back, is this where you thought you’d be professionally? Was it always your goal to be in this position?
Nope. I’ve never had a goal to achieve a certain title. Because I’ve been so open to different markets, companies, and roles, I’ve had a fun and varied path to where I am now. My goal was (and still is) to genuinely enjoy work, make an impact, and never stop learning.
For people who are looking to be in a similar position, what advice would you give to others in terms of helping them achieve their career goals?
Go broad. Your path up should not be a straight line. If you want to be a leader, it’s important to understand different functions, mindsets, and obstacles. Even if you aren’t part of a department or team, still lean in and learn from them.
What are the most important skills that you need to do your job well?
- Hunger to learn: That comes with sharp listening skills. Take the time to really understand.
- Process thinking: Problems and obstacles, aggressive timelines, etc….they happen. If you can apply process thinking, breaking down the steps and options, you can tackle it!
- Strong EQ: Know your audience. Understand their point of view. Make sure your team knows their value.
What do you find most interesting/rewarding about your work? What’s the most challenging?
That answer is really one in the same for this challenge junkie! I’m a very process-oriented person. I am happiest when I can bring a process to an otherwise chaotic situation.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment?
I’m most proud of the people I’ve been able to connect with and coach along the way. When I see a former employee soar through their career, and they keep coming back to me for coaching, I’m really so honored to be part of their journey.
Are you involved with any professional organizations outside of the company? Volunteer work?
I used to be! I was on the Board of Directors for Purdue Alumni for several years, and volunteered for various community organizations. My kids are now teenagers, and have followed in my footsteps by being involved in everything, so I’ve had to learn to say no for now (except for the occasional bake sale contribution!). That’s probably one of the most important pieces of advice I could give - know when to say no (it’s something I still struggle with!). In a few short years, my kids will be off to college and beyond, and will enjoy re-engaging with organizations and volunteer opportunities.
Q&A
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
With three active kids at home, there really isn’t a thing called “free time”! I absolutely love supporting them from the sidelines, chauffeuring them around, and sharing in those special moments as they grow.
How do you manage stress?
I have three adorable fur babies! My dogs are the best stress relief, always ready to play, cuddle, and just hang. It’s hard to feel stressed when you walk in the door and are greeted by a flurry of wagging tails and love.
Other than that, it’s all about organization. For me, no matter how much I have going on, keeping it all organized makes it feel manageable and greatly reduces the stress…and there’s really nothing like checking off something on your to-do list!
What advice do you have for recent college graduates?
Take some risks and don’t stay in your comfort zone. Some of my best experiences & stories come from when I didn’t take the safe road. I definitely wouldn’t be where I am today if I had been afraid to fail or be uncomfortable.
