2021 Honorees

Hailey Branham

Senior Account Manager

“I lead by example and through empowerment.”

Tell us about where you work and what you do there.

I am a Senior Account Manager at adQuadrant, a leading digital marketing agency specializing in direct-to-consumer brands. At adQ, I service our largest client relationships, acting as a liaison between internal and external stakeholders with an emphasis on relationship management and client satisfaction.

I make sure our clients’ needs and goals are met, while also making sure that my team is set up for success and has everything they need to accomplish those goals (or as we say at adQ, “win championships”).

How would you describe yourself?

As a native Texan, it may come as no surprise that my favorite things are queso, sunshine, hot sauce (on everything), and enchiladas. I’m also a dog mom to the world’s sweetest golden retriever, Moose, and can always be found reading, hiking, crafting, or telling dad jokes.

Those who know me would describe me as an eternal optimist with a lot of hustle and dedication, all of which are qualities that I’m very proud of. I care deeply about climate change and sustainability, gender equality, and cyberpsychology, and appreciate any opportunity I get to partner with brands that also care about these issues and have social good programs that aim to tackle them.

What is your leadership style?

I lead by example and through empowerment. I hold myself to exceedingly high standards so that my team may be inspired to do the same, and I support, nurture and encourage my team to become the best versions of themselves. I also aim to create a positive working environment, as I believe that when your team is happy, they find their work more fulfilling and they’re able to deliver a greater impact.

What do you think has been your biggest professional success so far?

Aside from being recognized as one of 2021’s Amazing Women in eCommerce, I’m most proud of taking a step outside of my comfort zone and accepting my current position at adQuadrant. I transitioned from an illustrious role at Facebook to a small (but mighty) agency because the organization’s leadership really inspired me and their core values aligned exactly with mine.

Our agency is comprised of some of the most brilliant and diverse minds in the industry, with 46% of our employee base being female and 60% being minorities, which creates this beautiful melting pot of talent and innovation — all of which have helped to influence, challenge, and shape my industry perspective. I’ve grown tenfold in the two years that I’ve been a part of this organization and consider that to be one of my greatest professional successes to date.

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What goals do you have for 2021?

This year, I’m really focused on volunteering with the Citizens’ Climate Lobby and becoming a career mentor for entry-level women in digital marketing who are looking for someone to help them pioneer their own path in our industry.

What do you think is the next big trend in eCommerce?

Sustainability and inclusivity. Now more than ever, people are looking for ways that they can make a difference in the world, and the easiest way to do that is by making better choices about where and who they purchase from. It’s no longer an option to just make a great product — consumers care about your mission, your values, and the impact you’re making on society.

Name an eCommerce brand you admire and why.

Athleta, a Certified B Corporation that’s also certified Fair Trade. Their mission is to empower women and girls to achieve their limitless potential, and not only is the quality of their products incredible, but they also employ mostly women and celebrate body positivity on their website and in their core values. In addition, 76% of their materials are made with sustainable fibers, and as mentioned previously, I deeply admire brands that make a point to leave a positive impact on the environment. From an eCommerce perspective, their marketing is spot on and their CRO/site functionality checks all of the boxes.

What do you geek out over?

Recreating restaurant recipes that I love at home, DIY home projects (currently macrame), board games, and audiobooks.