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Sarah Simmer
CEO at Found with extensive experience in strategic roles
Sarah Jones Simmer is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Bumble, a prominent female-first social networking and dating app. She joined Bumble in 2017, the same year the company expanded its offerings beyond dating to include Bumble BFF for friendships and Bumble Bizz for professional networking. In her role, she oversees core business strategy, international growth, marketing initiatives, and the overall operations of the company, which boasts over 65 million users globally.12
Career Background
Sarah began her career at a hedge fund in Los Angeles, focusing on equity analysis and market conditions. She later transitioned to strategy consulting, where she worked with various brands, including luxury companies like Gucci and Clinique, as well as startups such as 23andMe. Her consulting work emphasized the intersection of business growth and social change, advising on philanthropic initiatives.123
Before joining Bumble, she was the head of business development at PHLUR, a sustainable beauty brand. Her extensive experience in both finance and consulting has equipped her with a unique perspective on scaling mission-driven businesses.23
Leadership Philosophy
Jones Simmer emphasizes the importance of kindness in leadership, stating that it involves more than just positive feedback; it requires authentic communication and respect among team members. She believes that fostering a culture of empowerment and trust is essential for both employee satisfaction and customer engagement.23
Recent Challenges and Achievements
In addition to her operational responsibilities, Sarah played a crucial role in Bumble's initial public offering (IPO) while undergoing treatment for stage 3 breast cancer. Her resilience during this challenging time has been widely recognized within the company and the industry.3
Overall, Sarah Jones Simmer's leadership at Bumble reflects a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and social responsibility within the tech landscape.
