American businesswoman Laura J. Alber is the Chief Executive Officer of Williams-Sonoma Inc., the U.S.-based kitchenware and home furnishings group and one of the most well-recognized brands in the U.S. She has held numerous leadership roles over the years, demonstrating her ability to climb the ranks and master every role she has taken on.
Alber earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the University of Pennsylvania. After graduation, she first worked a series of odd jobs such as waitressing in California before landing an entry-level job at Gap Inc. Then in 1995, she joined Williams-Sonoma’s subsidiary, Pottery Barn as a senior buyer and climbed the ladders to take over the role of President from 2002 to 2006.
She then became President of Pottery Barn’s parent company, Williams-Sonoma, in 2006 where she headed global supply chain, distribution, and logistics, before being elected to Williams-Sonoma’s board and named CEO in 2010. Under her leadership, she has driven the group’s transition to online sales, launched the company’s first mobile app, and also promoted several major in-store events.
Over the years, Alber has been ranked as one of the most influential and highest paid women in American business. From 2019 to 2020, her pay jumped 42%, earning her $24 million. But, besides her management skills, she is also known for encouraging businesses to hire and promote more women in management.
“I think there’s not enough role models of women, different types of women, in senior jobs. I think that’s what we really need to change, and something that drives me every day. It’s one of the reasons why I’ve really stuck with it because I realize it’s bigger than just me in this job. I can inspire young women and show them that you can be in this job not just for a short period of time, but for a long period of time,” she said.