WISE GM Katie Capuzzo shares her passion for nurturing strong relationships

Katie Capuzzo brings a broad base of sales, enablement, and people partnership experience to WISE. She stepped into the role of General Manager for WISE in April 2023, and splits her time between WISE and its parent company, CloserIQ, where she heads people strategy.

Get to know Katie and how she is navigating her new role with WISE.

Tell us a little bit about your background and your previous history with WISE.

After graduating from the University of Alabama (Roll Tide) with a degree in Fashion, I moved to NYC to work for Feed Projects. I loved the bagels and excitement of the city, but 7 years, a husband and 2 dogs later, we took the “Y” out of NYC and moved to NC (North Carolina).

I started working as a recruiter at WISE’s parent company, CloserIQ, in 2018. From our office in Hudson Yards, I watched and cheered on my predecessors, Alex and Cassie, as they grew the WISE community into what it is today. In my new role, I’m grateful to have a front row seat to the networking, mindsharing and development that WISE offers.

What inspired you to step up to your new role with WISE?

Taking time for professional development isn’t always easy, but it’s so important! As a longtime member of the community myself, I love the variety and convenience that WISE offers. Members can go from learning first-hand accounts from a sales leader to knowledge-sharing in the Slack channel. When the opportunity to have a more direct impact on the community became available, I was all in!

As a female leader, what has been the most significant barrier in your career?

In one sentence, I’m a hard worker with a knack for problem-solving who hates disappointing others. This means that I’m up for any challenge but will second guess my abilities every step of the way… imposter syndrome at its finest! I’ve learned to trust my gut when opportunities arise and turn my music up a little louder when negative internal voices start yammering.

Are there any women leaders or mentors who have inspired you? If so, what was your takeaway from them?

Cheesy as it may be, my mom definitely deserves a shout out. She is joy encapsulated and despite having a technically complicated job, she’s always shown up as her authentic self, never toning down her personality to match those around her.

As an animal-lover, I’ve always been inspired by Jane Goodall’s work with conservation and animal welfare issues. Throughout her study of chimpanzees, she was an outspoken advocate who showed respect to her subjects and their environments. I think the world would be a better place if we applied this perspective to all facets of life!

What's your advice for women who are in or transitioning to a leadership position?

Trust your judgement, be influenced by good (things, people, food), and know that it’s okay to laugh at yourself. I was 22 when a quote on a fridge magnet changed my life. It’s so simple but was a complete perspective shift for the over achiever in me. I decided right then and there that when aspiring towards great, I wouldn’t forget to do good. “Go into the world and do well. But more importantly, go into the world and do good.” - Minor Myers Jr.

What is your favorite WISE program to participate in?

Pods! We hear advice like, “grow your network,” all the time, but knowing where to start can feel daunting. Pods are a great start that allow members to vent, get advice and make connections in a safe space. It’s been so inspiring to hear stories of friendship and new career connections that began from attending a Pod.

How do you like to relax or wind down after a stressful work day/week?

• I’m a fur mama so snuggles + walks with my pups, Olive and Lemon, are vital.
• I really enjoy cooking. Since I work from home, making dinner during the week is a clear signal that my work day has ended. I usually turn on my favorite music (Otis Redding, The Temptations, Billie Holiday) and zone out.
• Antiquing! All I need is a good podcast and I can get lost in an antique store. One trip, I had my phone on silent and thus missed all of my husband’s calls - he literally couldn’t find me for 2 hours!
• I don’t look at my phone after 8pm and read every night before bed. I’ve found that removing the screen and replacing it with a physical book helps me sleep better.

What are you most looking forward to in this new role?

Continuing to meet and network with the incredible women that make up the WISE community! I love hearing from you, so don’t hesitate to reach out with topic ideas, event feedback or just to say “hi”!

Meet Katie and the rest of the amazing leaders in the WISE Community. Gain new friends and learn from peers to push your career to the next level. Apply here.