In this episode of The Speed of Culture podcast, Suzy founder and host Matt Britton is joined by Deirdre Findlay, global chief commercial officer at luxury sound brand Sonos. Findlay shares her career journey from finance to marketing leadership, her passion for connecting with global cultures, and the exciting new product innovations at Sonos.

Known for its sleek design and superior sound quality, Sonos continues to innovate and lead in the highly competitive audio industry. The company is known for its in-home audio solutions, but recently expanded into the portable market with its first headphones, the Sonos Ace.

As CCO at Sonos, Findlay brings extensive experience in marketing, brand management and consumer engagement, having held executive roles at companies like Google, Stitch Fix and eBay, where she honed her skills in digital marketing and consumer insights.

Her career began in finance, but her passion for creativity led her to business school and eventually to prominent marketing positions. Her blend of analytical and creative skills has made her a leading voice in the industry.

“No one was going to tell me how to become a marketer,” she says on the podcast. “I learned through exposure and by being super curious. It’s important to be curious, self-motivated, and roll up your sleeves to figure it out.”

Listen to Findlay on The Speed of Culture podcast to learn more about how Sonos keeps innovating in the audio technology space.

Key takeaways:

03:10-03:49 Connecting With Global Markets: Findlay emphasizes the importance of staying connected with global markets and cultures. She travels frequently between Sonos offices in Santa Barbara, New York and London, ensuring that she understands and addresses the unique needs of different regions. By leveraging global insights, brands can tailor their offerings to meet the needs of various markets.

24:00-25:00 Launching Sonos Ace: Sonos Ace, the company’s new headphones, have been a much-anticipated launch driven by strong consumer demand. With over 50,000 requests, Sonos saw a clear market need and developed headphones that deliver best-in-class sound, a 30-hour battery life, and rapid charging. Listening to consumer feedback and ensuring new products align with core values and standards of excellence is crucial in today’s competitive market.