Personal Branding & Leadership

“How do you create a personal brand that truly reflects who you are as a leader? It starts with authenticity—and a great photographer.”

Recently, I worked with Stephanie Alvarez Ewens on a personal branding photoshoot. Stephanie’s deep understanding of my career and values allowed her to capture not just images but a narrative—one that reflects my identity as a global executive at the intersection of culture, creativity, and leadership. Her ability to frame me authentically taught me valuable lessons that apply to leadership and innovation:

1️⃣ Authenticity is everything: A personal brand isn’t just a polished headshot—it’s about showing up as the real you. Companies like Patagonia excel because their leaders’ values resonate through every decision and communication. Similarly, in leadership, when people see authenticity, they trust you.

2️⃣ Collaborate with experts: Working with Stephanie reminded me of the power of collaboration. Much like partnering with cultural institutions during my time at K11, tapping into others’ expertise elevates the end result. Surround yourself with people who help you articulate your vision.

3️⃣ Invest in storytelling: Whether through a photoshoot or a company’s mission statement, great leadership connects emotionally. Think of Apple’s focus on human-centered innovation—it’s not just about tech, but the stories their leaders tell.

Personal branding is more than a LinkedIn profile; it’s about crafting a message that people will remember. Whether you’re guiding a team or leading a cultural strategy, your persona should reflect your unique leadership style.

How do you approach personal branding in your career?