Talking tech with Randi Zuckerberg

A little intimidated at the thought of meeting a member of the Zuckerberg family, I rush my way past the rows of exhibitors set up for CeBIT Australia – APAC’s largest business technology event – searching for the media centre. I’m speaking to keynote speaker Randi (the Founder and CEO of Zuckerberg Media and Facebook’s former Director of Market Development) in five minutes so barely have a moment to catch my breath.

Luckily for me though, it quickly becomes apparent that the businesswoman loves to chat – her earlier interview has run a little over time. As I wait patiently outside the interview booth I run though my notes, preparing myself as best I can to speak to such an inspirational person in the business world. I mean, she not only runs her own media company but is also an author, TV host, producer and mother of two, as well as someone who’s playing an important role in changing the way society views the tech industry as a male-dominated space.

There’s a magical formula when it comes to be a successful entrepreneur. It’s equal parts of passion and data. You need both of those.

I’m ushered in and as soon as I introduce myself, the nerves drop. Randi is lovely and all smiles as she speaks openly about her journey; sharing insights into how she stays productive, why her peers have made the best mentors, and the need to disconnect from technology every day.

She touches on her career at Facebook (her brother is a co-founder) and the moment she knew it was time to break out on her own. I’m all ears and take note of her valuable advice for young entrepreneurs, women in tech and the wider business community. Gems like: "There’s a magical formula when it comes to be a successful entrepreneur. It’s equal parts of passion and data. You need both of those."

There’s no doubt she’s doing the Zuckerberg name proud.

For more of the story, grab a copy of the July issue of The CEO Magazine, out 15 June.

Randi Zuckerberg spoke at CeBIT Australia – the largest and longest running business technology event in the Asia-Pacific region. It runs until 25 May at International Convention Centre Sydney. www.cebit.com.au