Laura Alber

Laura J. Alber, a notable business figure and the current CEO of Williams-Sonoma, Inc., embarked on her journey with the company in 1995 as a senior buyer for the subsidiary brand, Pottery Barn. Demonstrating exceptional business acumen and a keen eye for detail, she ascended the ranks to become the president of Pottery Barn from 2002 to 2006. In 2010, her leadership skills and vision led to her election as the CEO of Williams-Sonoma, Inc. During her tenure, Alber has been instrumental in transforming the company into one of the largest U.S. e-tailers, earning her the 10th highest-paid woman in U.S. business in 2011.

Alber's innovative approach to business has resulted in numerous accolades, including being named one of the most influential women in San Francisco in 2011 and a "Business Person of the Year" by Fortune magazine in 2014 and 2015. She brought a unique blend of art and science to business, as she advocated in her Harvard Business Review article. Alber's innovative strategies have resulted in the expansion of Williams-Sonoma into new markets and the introduction of several new brands. She also promoted in-store events such as book signings and classes, demonstrating her commitment to engaging customers and creating a dynamic store environment.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Alber is deeply committed to fostering a values-based culture at Williams-Sonoma, Inc. This commitment is reflected in her life as a mother of three and her service on the board of directors of Fitbit, the Board of Salesforce, and the Board of Trustees at the University of Pennsylvania. Alber's diverse experiences and vision make her a trusted voice in the business world, particularly in the realm of e-commerce and brand development.