Cloud Girls is honored to have amazingly accomplished, professional women in tech as our members. We take every opportunity to showcase their expertise and accomplishments – promotions, speaking engagements, publications and more. Now, we are excited to shine a spotlight on one of our members each month.
November Cloud Expert of the Month is Michelle Ruyle
Michelle Ruyle is founder and CEO of Optimized Channel, an indirect channel sales consultancy focused on building and optimizing channel programs for emerging tech companies. She and her team provide sales, marketing and operational guidance to scale programs quickly through go-to-market plans, partner identification, recruitment and enablement strategies, fractional channel sales leadership and the operational elements required for channel growth. Ruyle has more than 20 years of experience in the channel. Her expertise spans the partner ecosystem, where she has consistently delivered revenue from enterprise and SMB customers. A founding member of Cloud Girls, Ruyle currently serves as an officer, board co-chair and advisory board member for the organization.
When did you join Cloud Girls and why?
I’m a founding member of Cloud Girls and joined in 2011. Today I’m an Officer and Executive Advisor. I decided to be part of Cloud Girls because 9 years ago I knew “The Cloud” would be the future. I wanted to learn everything I could about it.
What do you value about being a Cloud Girl?
I value two things about being a Cloud Girl; our focus on Philanthropy supporting women in tech and the relationships I have built with the incredible women who are members.
What is the biggest risk that you’ve taken?
Earlier on in my career, I worked for a company where I was underpaid. I liked the company and the people I worked with. I built up the courage to ask for a compensation package that was aligned with my responsibilities. I had to move to another company to get it and never looked back!
What woman inspires you and why?
Oprah Winfrey. She started from humble beginnings, overcame many personal obstacles, from that built an empire. She continues to inspire me throughout her life journey…career success, giving back, achieving peace through mindfulness. One of my favorite quotes from Oprah, “Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.”
What one piece of advice would you share with young women to encourage them to take a seat at the table?
Be brave and step outside your comfort zone!