Breakfast with Alex Miller
Today we’re having breakfast with Alex Miller, SBC member and Chief People Officer & Marketplace President of Perpay!
We don't meet for breakfast anymore, but if we did, what would you want on the table?
I never pass up an omelette bar!
Can you share a little about what you do and what drives your work?
I'm passionate about building and enabling high-performing teams. I've found throughout my career that the things that bring me the most joy come as a result of seeing those I work with have success.
One of the many things that drew me to Perpay over 6 years ago was the opportunity to join a team of smart and driven people at a company that was poised for rapid growth, where I could play a meaningful role in shaping the business and the team of the future.
What’s one thing about your background or journey that might surprise people?
It feels natural and logical to me, but people are frequently surprised that I was a psychology major in college. While I wasn't a big fan of the clinical research side of things, I found myself curious about the science behind human behavior and how that could be applied in the real world (i.e., outside the lab). That led me into roles and companies that were using technology to solve problems for misunderstood and underserved consumers.
What in Philly inspires you right now, and why?
The number of historic events happening in Philadelphia this year is inspiring. From the country's 250th birthday to the MLB All-Star Game and FIFA World Cup, I'm in awe of the teams that worked and are working to bring those events to life.
In my role, I have an idea of what it takes to pull together events and celebrations for a company of 100+, so seeing how Philly is approaching support for these moments for millions is inspiring. I've made a purposeful choice to build my family, career, and company in Philly, so it's great to have the city get the recognition for innovation, passion, and history that it deserves!
If you could invite anyone (living or dead) to an SBC event, who would it be and why?
Ben Franklin would be an incredible guest to mark our nation's 250th birthday. In Philadelphia, he isn’t just a historical figure; he is the city’s DNA. His perspective on science and technology, the politics of influence, and the future of our city would make that month's SBC a must-attend event!
What’s one book, podcast, show, or other piece of content you’re enjoying right now?
Like many, my wife Debbie and I are bingeing our way through Paradise right now. Beyond the compelling storytelling about a dystopian future (my favorite genre), the show does a great job of intertwining great 80s and 90s music (again, my favorite), and frequently prompts us to consider what we would prioritize when facing impossible/improbable choices.
An omelette bar, a deep curiosity about people, and a front-row seat to Philly’s biggest moments, Alex’s take on leadership and growth is grounded and rooted in community. Exactly the kind of perspective we’re lucky to have in the room at SBC. Thanks for having breakfast with us, Alex!