Jill Macri is a seasoned talent leader whose career has been defined by a singular mission: to help companies scale with intention, integrity, and inclusivity. With over two decades of experience in global recruiting and leadership development, Jill has become a trusted advisor to venture-backed startups and high-growth companies seeking to build resilient, values-aligned teams. As a Founding Partner at Growth by Design Talent, she brings a unique blend of operational rigor, cultural insight, and human-centered strategy to the evolving world of work.
Jill’s journey into talent leadership began with a global perspective. Fluent in French, Italian, and Spanish, she spent her early career immersed in international hiring and operations, gaining firsthand experience in the nuances of cross-cultural team building. This global exposure laid the foundation for her empathetic approach to recruiting and her commitment to creating inclusive workplaces that honor diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Her most transformative professional chapter unfolded at Airbnb, where she served as Director of Global Recruiting for over five years. During this period, Jill played a pivotal role in scaling the company from 150 to 4,500 employees, all while maintaining a steadfast focus on preserving Airbnb’s core values and mission. She spearheaded initiatives to build diverse teams, implement structured hiring practices, and foster a culture of belonging—a testament to her belief that talent is the foundation of every successful company.
In 2017, Jill co-founded Growth by Design Talent, a consultancy dedicated to helping companies grow with intention. At GBD Talent, she leads executive searches, facilitates leadership workshops, and provides strategic advisement to organizations navigating the complexities of rapid growth. Her work is characterized by a deep understanding of the human dynamics that drive organizational success and a commitment to aligning talent strategies with company values and long-term vision.
Jill’s expertise extends beyond recruitment; she is a passionate advocate for leadership development and coaching. She specializes in helping leaders evolve in their roles, build high-performing teams, and cultivate environments where individuals can thrive. Her approach is both strategic and empathetic, recognizing that effective leadership is as much about personal growth as it is about business outcomes.
Throughout her career, Jill has been a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the talent space. She has shared her insights at various conferences and webinars, discussing topics such as data-driven recruiting, remote candidate engagement, and the importance of structured hiring processes. Her thought leadership reflects a commitment to continuous learning and a desire to contribute to the broader conversation about the future of work.
Jill’s dedication to social impact is evident in her personal passions, including advocating for women in leadership and immigrant rights. She believes in using her platform to support underrepresented communities and to drive meaningful change within organizations and society at large. Her work is guided by a belief in equity, access, and the transformative power of inclusive leadership.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Jill is an avid mountain biker and outdoor enthusiast. She finds inspiration and balance in nature, bringing the same sense of adventure and resilience to her work as she does to the trails. Her love for the outdoors mirrors her approach to leadership—navigating challenges with agility, embracing new experiences, and fostering a spirit of exploration.
With a career spanning over 20 years, Jill Macri has established herself as a leader who not only understands the mechanics of scaling organizations but also the importance of nurturing the human elements that sustain them. Her holistic approach to talent strategy, combined with her unwavering commitment to values-driven leadership, makes her an invaluable partner to companies seeking to grow with purpose.
As she continues to advise and support organizations across industries, Jill remains focused on her mission: to help leaders build teams that are not only high-performing but also reflective of the diverse world we live in. Through her work, she is shaping a future of work that is inclusive, intentional, and aligned with the greater good.
Character:
Jill Macri exemplifies integrity and empathy in her leadership, consistently advocating for inclusive practices and social impact. Her commitment to equity and values-driven decision-making has earned her the trust of colleagues and clients alike.
Knowledge:
With over two decades of experience in global recruiting and talent strategy, Jill possesses deep expertise in building scalable, mission-aligned teams. Her insights into structured hiring and leadership development are informed by both practical experience and continuous learning.
Strategic:
Jill approaches organizational growth with a strategic mindset, aligning talent initiatives with long-term business goals. Her ability to anticipate challenges and design effective solutions has been instrumental in scaling companies like Airbnb and advising numerous startups.
Communication:
An articulate and engaging speaker, Jill effectively communicates complex ideas with clarity and compassion. Her facilitation of workshops and participation in industry discussions demonstrate her skill in fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration.
