2023

Lexie Komisar

Global Head, Partner Products & Growth, Meta

“Embrace a growth mindset: be open to new ideas, embrace change, and be willing to step outside of your comfort zone.”

In your opinion, what qualities make a “Power Woman”?

A “Power Woman” is someone who turns her values into action. She has confidence in her ability to achieve her goals, and inspires and motivates others to do the same. A Power Woman is resilient and determined in the face of adversity, and is committed to making a positive impact in the world.

Do you think that asking previous salary requirements in job interviews contributes to the pay gap between women and men? NY State outlawed this practice, should it be nationwide?

It is critical that we work to create an inclusive and supportive environment at the workplace and across industries. This involves challenging gender biases, stereotypes, and practices that limit women’s and other underrepresented groups’ progress and representation in areas like equal pay and implementing family-friendly policies, while also promoting a culture of respect and inclusivity.

What was the defining moment or experience in your life that led you to where you are today?

Early in my career, I started examining why the technology community was largely absent from conversations regarding social impact, and I set out to close this gap. I joined the Clinton Foundation and launched the Foundation’s first program focused on technology and innovation for social good. I immediately saw the power technology has to transform how we live and work. The scale and reach were hard to ignore: by using technology, our work impacted hundreds of thousands of lives across local municipalities and communities, and that outcome made me want to keep exploring ways these tools could shape a more equitable and inclusive society.

“Legislators, priests, philosophers, writers, and scientists have striven to show that the subordinate position of woman is willed in heaven and advantageous on earth.” Simone de Beauvoir. Is this still a major stumbling block on the 21st century road to equality?

It is, and it shows that women still need allies and champions of gender equality. True progress requires collective effort, and we all have a crucial role to play in challenging harmful gender norms, advocating for equal opportunities, and supporting women’s advancement.

What is your mantra? What phrase or parabel best describes your approach right now?

“Be a lamp, or a lifeboat, or a ladder.” — Rumi

How would you describe the changes in the political landscape for women over the past five years?

While there are still challenges, there are also reasons to be hopeful. Women are increasingly getting elected to political office and there have been legislative victories in areas like equal pay and workplace protections which represent progress. More still needs to be done though, and it is crucial we build on this momentum by advocating for women’s voices to be heard, their experiences to be represented, and their leadership to be fully realized, recognized, and supported.

Women are often placed in binaries. Strong and emotionless or weak and sensitive.How do you subvert these limitations and connect to all sides of womanhood?

I believe we can connect to all sides of womanhood and create a more inclusive and empowering world for all women by embracing authenticity and challenging stereotypes. Ultimately, rather than focusing on binaries, we must celebrate diversity and encourage empathy.

If you could have someone else’s job for a day, who and what would it be? Why?

I would trade places with President Obama’s former Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of the United States, Megan Smith, for a day. Her record of helping harness the power of technology, data, and innovation to advance our nation is extremely inspiring.

What advice would you give to any aspiring Power Women?

Embrace a growth mindset: be open to new ideas, embrace change, and be willing to step outside of your comfort zone.

What steps do you take to obtain a healthy work/life balance?

I believe in work/life integration — integrating one’s work and life to support each other in the pursuit of overall fulfillment

Which historical figure do you most identify with?

Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, whose legacy of advocating for justice and equal rights serves as a powerful reminder that with determination and resilience, women can build a more just and equitable society.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is “no mud, no lotus.” The idea is that growth and beauty often emerge from challenging or difficult experiences. Just like the lotus flower, which blooms despite growing in muddy waters, we must embrace and overcome life’s obstacles in order to achieve personal and professional growth.

What is your favorite book (fiction or nonfiction)?

Brene Brown’s Daring Greatly. It has profoundly influenced my approach to leadership by emphasizing the importance of embracing vulnerability and finding courage in both personal and professional spheres.

What do you most value in your friends?

Loyalty

Which trait do you most deplore in yourself? In others?

At times, I can allow fear to cloud my perception of a situation. While fear is a natural response, it is important to push past it in order to pursue new opportunities and take risks. In others, the trait I find most concerning is closed mindedness, which can hinder inclusivity and creativity. I believe in the power of an open, empathetic mindset that fosters collaboration, understanding, and above all, learning.

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?

Perfectionism. In a fast-paced world where innovation and progress are essential, it is crucial not to allow the pursuit of perfection to hinder meaningful change and timely action.