Do This, NOT That: Marketing Tips with Jay Schwedelson TED Chief Program & Strategy Officer: Career Growth Secrets ‼️ GUEST!! Monique Ruff-Bell | Ep. 447
Nov 14, 2025
Monique Ruff-Bell, Chief Program & Strategy Officer at TED, brings over 25 years of experience to the table. She emphasizes the importance of intentional career-building and stacking cross-functional skills to become executive-ready. Monique shares her journey of shifting careers, embedding with sales, and how to build genuine mentorship by offering help first. She also discusses the elements that make TED talks impactful, focusing on sharp ideas supported by strong storytelling. Tune in for insightful strategies to elevate your career!
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Role Created For Her
- Monique moved from head of conferences to a new role that was created for her at TED.
- The chief program and strategy officer position was designed to match how she operates and lead strategically.
Intentionally Stack Cross-Functional Skills
- Try building cross-functional skills by deliberately rotating through roles like operations, marketing, and content.
- Move on from areas you master to intentionally expand capabilities that prepare you to lead a business.
Embed With Sales To Create Value
- Ask to join sales calls and learn client needs so you can shape better packages.
- Offer help first; making the sales team money earns trust and opens leadership opportunities.