Samantha Dong

Professional Background

Samantha Dong is a dynamic and accomplished professional with an impressive track record in both the tech and fashion industries, blending her expertise across business, finance, and design. As the Founder and CEO of Ally Shoes, she has innovated in the fashion sector, prioritizing inclusivity and comfort in women’s footwear. Under her leadership, the company has gained a strong reputation for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Samantha honed her skills while holding key leadership roles at Angi, where she served as both Director and Associate Director of Category GM. Her strategic insights and leadership abilities enabled her to drive significant growth and innovation in the company's service offerings. This experience solidified her prowess in market analysis and product management, allowing her to effectively lead cross-functional teams.

Additionally, Samantha was selected as a Fellow at Project Entrepreneur, an initiative that empowers women entrepreneurs, giving her the opportunity to mentor emerging leaders in the business community. Earlier in her career, she worked in product management and business operations at OrderAhead, contributing to its successful acquisition by Square—a testament to her ability to add value to innovative startups.

She also gained foundational experience during her time at Deloitte Consulting, where she worked as a Business Analyst, and at Goldman Sachs as a Summer Analyst, laying the groundwork for her analytical and financial acumen. Samantha also co-founded TimeDiff, Inc., demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit and enthusiasm for driving impactful change in the business landscape.

Education and Achievements

Samantha Dong's academic credentials are equally impressive, reflecting her commitment to excellence and broad interests. She earned her Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the prestigious Stanford University Graduate School of Business, where she deepened her understanding of strategic business practices and enhanced her leadership capabilities. The rigorous MBA program is known for cultivating innovative thinkers and leaders, equipping Samantha with vital skills for her future endeavors.

Prior to Stanford, Samantha completed her undergraduate studies in Applied Economics and Management, with a focus on Finance, at Cornell University. This solid foundation in economic principles and financial practices has been instrumental in her career, allowing her to make informed decisions and strategic recommendations throughout her various roles.

Moreover, she pursued summer intensive studies in Fashion Design Process at Parsons Paris – The New School, aligning her passion for fashion with her strong business acumen. Her multidisciplinary background not only showcases her versatility but also her ability to bridge the gap between creative design and strategic business development.

Achievements

Throughout her career, Samantha has received recognition for her contributions and innovative approaches within the business community. As the Founder and CEO of Ally Shoes, she spearheaded initiatives that focus on providing stylish yet practical footwear solutions for women, effectively addressing a prevalent gap in the market. Her leadership has also fostered a culture of inclusivity within her organization, setting a standard for future fashion brands.

Her past roles at Angi, especially as a Category GM, have been marked by her strategic direction and her capabilities in driving revenue growth. Her experience at OrderAhead, culminating in its acquisition by Square, highlights her abilities in scaling operations while maintaining a focus on product excellence and customer satisfaction.

Samantha’s involvement with Project Entrepreneur demonstrates her commitment to fostering new talent in entrepreneurship, underscoring the value she places on mentorship and community support.

Inherent to her journey is her role in founding TimeDiff, Inc., where she applied her entrepreneurial insights to effectively deliver market-driven solutions. Her achievements detail a career rich in leadership, growth, and transformative contributions, reflecting her passion for empowering others and her dedication to making a significant impact in every venture she undertakes.