Kelly Wu joined Pinterest back in 2022 as an account manager and has flown through the ranks, now working as a senior client account manager (retail and e-commerce). Wu scooped the Grand Prix at B&T’s 30 Under 30 Awards earlier this year.
The Grand Prix category is awarded to one exceptional talent by Vevo. B&T chatted with Wu to hear more about her journey and how she has paved the way for important social and cultural initiatives at Pinterest. Check out the rest of B&T’s 30 Under 30 finalists and winners.
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B&T: What have been the biggest lessons in your career so far?
Kelly Wu: The biggest lesson I’ve learnt in my career is to feel the fear and do it anyway. I’ve struggled with anxiety most of my life, thinking that I couldn’t move forward until I became a ‘perfect,’ anxiety-free version of myself to move forward, but I realized that was holding me back. Don’t wait for perfection to take action in your career or life. Show up for yourself, even when scared, and take imperfect steps. Speak up in meetings, lead presentations, take up space and ask for help, even when it’s intimidating. It’s the courage to act despite fear that drives growth.
B&T: What was the impact of winning B&T’s 30 Under 30 Award in the Grand Prix category earlier this year?
KW: Being nominated for B&T’s 30 Under 30 Media Salesperson in 2023 was a truly meaningful moment for me, and it reaffirmed my commitment to bringing my authentic self to work, driving impactful results for my clients and championing my passions for DEI and sustainability.
Winning B&T’s 30 Under 30 Grand Prix Award this year was a significant milestone in my career, validating my work and reinforcing the importance of resilience and self-belief. Since then, I have been promoted to senior client account manager at Pinterest and taken on the role of global inclusion and diversity lead for Asians@ Pinterest. This recognition has empowered me to take risks, lead with purpose, and continue my work in diversity, equity, and inclusion. The award served as a reflection of my growth and a springboard for the next phase of my career, showing that staying true to your values can lead to incredible opportunities.
Check out Wu’s post-win interview here:
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B&T: What role have cultural and social initiatives played in your career?
KW: Cultural and social initiatives have played a huge role in shaping both my career and my approach to work. Being a part of these initiatives, like leading the Pinterest and UnLtd partnership, not only aligns with my personal values but also enhances my professional growth.
Through these initiatives, I’ve been able to build a network of like-minded professionals who are passionate about making a positive impact, and it has motivated me to seek out roles or projects where I can contribute meaningfully at Pinterest, the media industry and my community.
Being the social impact lead at Pinterest Australia and participating in community outreach or social responsibility programs has deepened my understanding of the broader impact businesses can have on society. Working with NFPs like Raise Foundation, OzHarvest, Surfrider Foundation, MAAD and Batyr have reinforced my belief in the importance of purpose-driven work and have helped me to develop leadership traits that prioritise empathy, social consciousness, and a global perspective. Also being a global DEI lead for Asians@ Pinterest and working on projects that promote diversity and inclusion has taught me the importance of creating environments where all perspectives are valued, which is crucial in fostering innovation and collaboration.
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B&T: What are the unique challenges that come with being young in this industry?
KW: Navigating my career as a young, Asian woman has come with its unique challenges; including overcoming stereotypes about inexperience and cultural biases. Demonstrating competence, confidence, and leadership from the start is crucial in breaking through these biases. Additionally, there can be barriers to representation and visibility in both the industry and leadership roles. Despite these challenges, I have embraced them as opportunities to advocate for diversity and inclusion, using my position to push for more visibility and opportunities for underrepresented groups. While these challenges are real, I view them as opportunities to challenge norms, push boundaries, and pave the way for more inclusivity and equality within the industry.
B&T: What is your advice for others hoping to leave a positive impact on the media industry?
KW: To make a positive impact in the media industry, prioritise how you make people feel over accomplishments. Building relationships, earning trust, and leaving others valued, understood, and inspired will have a lasting effect beyond any project or achievement. Focus on creating a culture of respect, empathy, and authenticity, as success stems from caring for others and showing up with integrity. By being generous with your time, ideas, and support, and making people feel heard and empowered, you not only leave a lasting influence but elevate the industry as a whole.
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