MONDAY | Nicole Alexander
here, she shares her love for Turkish-style breakfast and the skill that has shaped her career. "Academia can be tricky, and it often takes time to introduce new pedagogy."
This interview is part of the Mon-Sun series where we take an honest look behind the job title and explore what makes people tick, both in and out of “the office”. Each guest answers a set of 20 questions — split between their weekday (Monday) and weekend (Sunday) routines.
Nicole is the former global head of marketing at Meta, where she led a 100+ person team and shaped the vision for Meta for Business and Instagram for Business. She's also a professor of marketing and technology at NYU.
I met her through Section Business School, where I took her "Proving Business Value" sprint and this alone justified my entire program investment. Her business case framework helped me secure approval for a crucial project, opening numerous professional opportunities, so thank you, Nicole!
As a person who feels an urgency to fit all my projects and ideas into *this one life*, practical frameworks like this feel instantly magical.
Nicole’s next class runs Nov 11-18th, available either independently or through Section School's annual membership curriculum. I should be able to find a discount code if anyone’s interested, let me know.
Here, she shares her love for Turkish-style breakfast, tells us about the skill that has shaped her career, and how games help her beat midweek slumps. Stay tuned for part 2 this Sunday, where we'll discover what keeps drawing her back to Mexico City.
Weekday
What's for breakfast?
I try to keep breakfast light and healthy during the week, but it’s still my favorite meal of the day. I enjoy a Turkish-style breakfast with small, diverse items that feel nourishing. And don’t get me started on breakfast for dinner—it’s a serious guilty pleasure!
A book or person that has recently influenced/changed your opinion about something
Though I’m currently writing my own book, when I have time to unwind, I lean into fiction. Recently, Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune and The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller really drew me in. They remind me of the beauty of storytelling, which influences how I think about diverse stories and the art of communication.
What's a skill that has had the biggest impact on your earning potential?
Listening. In a world where everyone is vying for attention and quick to voice their opinions, true listening is a rare and valuable skill. It's more than just hearing words—it's about understanding perspectives, reading between the lines, and being fully present in conversations. It builds trust, creates deeper connections, and often reveals opportunities for collaboration or innovation that wouldn’t have surfaced otherwise. I believe the art of listening has opened doors for me throughout my career.
Does your education play a role in your day-to-day work?
Absolutely. My education has given me perspective and helped shape the way I approach challenges. I’ve always been a curious learner, and that continuous curiosity drives me to explore new areas. From marketing during my undergrad to diversifying my understanding of business through my EMBA—which also provided me with an incredible network that I’m still actively involved in a decade later—education has been a key part of my journey. Most recently, I went back to cement my understanding of AI ethics, ensuring that I stay ahead of the evolving landscape I work within. This combination of curiosity and structured learning helps me adapt and grow in an ever-changing world.
It’s Wednesday and you're in a slump. How do you overcome periods of low productivity?
Games and brain teasers. I’m a big fan of resetting my brain by playing a game or taking a break. It helps me relax and reset so that I can jump back into work with fresh energy.
A tool you use every day for work?
My laptop and my personal AI assistant are key. From keeping me organized to sending me quotes for inspiration, I rely on my AI assistant daily.
A brave or difficult choice you made that you're glad you did?
Deciding to write my upcoming book Ethical AI in Marketing being published by Kogan Page Ltd. I had doubts—wondering if I really had something worthy of a book or what people might say—but I decided to follow my gut and heart. I’m so glad I did.
Recent work-related win or loss
I’ve been building and pitching a new course for executives on Ethical AI in Business, and while everyone has been excited about the content and sees the necessity for it, especially for professionals, the implementation process has been slower than expected. Academia can be tricky, and it often takes time to introduce new pedagogy. It’s a bit of a disappointment, but I’m hopeful and remain committed to pushing forward because I believe in the importance of the work.
If you could work with someone for a day, who would it be and what would you hope to learn?
I’d love the opportunity to work with Bozoma Saint John. Her bold, creative, and authentic approach to marketing is truly inspiring. She has an incredible ability to harness culture and storytelling in ways that deeply resonate with audiences. I’d love to learn how she navigates fast-moving industries while staying true to her unique voice and vision. Her emphasis on authenticity, even in high-pressure environments, is something I admire, and I’d want to understand how she translates that into impactful marketing strategies that build genuine brand loyalty.
What are you looking forward to in the coming weeks?
I’m excited about submitting my chapters to my editor and the reopening of my yoga studio. I’ve realized how much I miss the community there, and it’s a big part of how I center myself each morning. Coffee has been doing the job while the studio relocates!
Want to learn more about Nicole's weekend routines, including what’s on her list to watch and read? Join us this Sunday for part two of our conversation.
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Curious to know more about the AI personal assistant. Current work state: under water 🌊