Zscaler Inc.

09/20/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/20/2024 07:22

WIZE Woman of Impact - Emma Hall

Tell us a little about what your day-to-day looks like running the CXO Programs.

One of my favorite aspects of my role is that no two days are alike. Whether I'm connecting deeply with customer CXOs to understand their initiatives and challenges, or collaborating with cross-functional teams to fine-tune how our CXO programs can deliver customized content at scale across the globe, each day brings a new and engaging challenge.

What about your work at Zscaler gets you excited to wake up every day?

The chance to shape and influence discussions at the highest levels of IT and security leadership is incredibly motivating. Knowing that our work not only drives Zscaler's growth, but also significantly impacts business outcomes for the customer CXOs we support in navigating the complexities of secure transformation, keeps me energized. One of the best parts of in-person executive experiences is that you can see the tangible impact our programs have on these customers.

Tell us about the importance of connecting to your sense of purpose-what inspires you?

My sense of purpose is deeply rooted in creating environments where leaders can connect, learn, and grow together. I'm inspired by the power of collaboration and the potential it holds for innovation and progress. We facilitate conversations that challenge the status quo and drive industry-wide learning and advancement. I'm passionate about learning-whether from my team, my friends, or my surroundings-and providing this opportunity for peer learning among our CXO customers is a privilege.

What is one piece of advice you have for others to help build and strengthen an inclusive culture?

Inclusivity starts with active listening and empathy. My advice is to prioritize understanding others before seeking to be understood. I tend to be known as a quiet leader, listening first, rather than barking orders down the chain. This is because I truly believe the best ideas-and in turn, the best business outcomes-stem from encouraging diverse voices to be heard. By fostering a culture of open dialogue and mutual respect, we can build an environment that drives creativity and innovation.

If you could pick one person who has been influential in your life, who would it be? Why?

I would choose my two children, aged 7 and 3. They've taught me to see the world anew through their eyes-full of curiosity, magic, and endless possibilities. Their ability to approach life with unfiltered creativity inspires me to tackle every puzzle, big or small, with curiosity and an open mind.

What is a quote you live by?

I always remind myself of Ian Maclaren's quote "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." We never know everything that is going on in someone else's life, so approaching colleagues and customers with kindness and empathy is the best way to build true relationships rather than just hold transactional interactions. This philosophy applies to everyone I interact with, from the executives at Fortune 500 companies to new team members just starting their journey.