“Embrace diversity,” Alex McClure from Expedia Group

Meet Alex McClure, Global Head of CTV and Audio at Expedia Group. Alex specializes in emerging channels and inclusive media buying, which allows her to continually innovate and learn while driving more equitable marketing investments. She uses her expertise in both agency and client-side roles to excel in her career, and she embraces new challenges that help her continue on her path of being a great leader. 

Alex sat down with Nidia Serrano, Vice President, Sales Marketing, in SiriusXM Media’s beach-side cabana at Cannes Lions. Together, they discussed finding your balance, embracing new perspectives, and getting comfortable asking for help. Ready to be inspired? Check out their full discussion below.

Embrace diversity.

Highlight: “Any time you're embracing diversity, you're really embracing new perspectives. And when you do that in business, you're able to connect more authentically with your audience.” - Alex McClure

Don’t filter yourself out.

Highlight: “Don't filter yourself out. I think this is something that women especially do. If you see a job description, and you think that you could do that job well, even if you maybe don't fit every single bullet point on the job description, apply for it. It's someone else's job, if you aren't qualified, to say no.” - Alex McClure

Find your balance.

Highlight: “My current boss is someone that I do really try to emulate… He's kind of the perfect balance between competent and chill… So I do want to become more like him where I have that kind of balance. And mistakes happen, right? So having someone who's able to kind of coach you through those and get to a solution, rather than focusing on the problem, is really important for me as a leader. It's a good lesson.” - Alex McClure

Make it work for yourself.

Highlight: “My first job outside of college was at a trade show company, and I realized very quickly that that was not going to bring my career in the direction I wanted it to go. And rather than feel sorry for myself, which I did for like a day or two, I decided to make it work for me… If you feel that you've made a misstep, make it work for you… Don't be afraid to be creative and find ways to make those bad situations into good ones.” - Alex McClure

Get comfortable reaching out.

Highlight: “Even if you don't feel comfortable yet reaching out about formal mentorships, I think you should feel comfortable having those initial conversations—especially in your early career. You'd be surprised how many people are excited to help you.”  - Alex McClure

Positive leaders like Alex know the importance of advocating for yourself and not being afraid to make new connections. If you want even more inspiration, check out more Pass the Mic content.