Nearly 12 years ago, Alex Hays joined Houzz as an account coordinator, beginning a journey that has mirrored the company’s own growth. Today, as a Director of Global Sales, he partners with teams across the U.S., UK and France to help shape the continued evolution and adoption of Houzz Pro.

How would you describe what you do at Houzz?
I work closely with sales teams across the US and international markets, helping shape how we position Houzz Pro and align on clear goals. Sales is often the first touchpoint for professionals exploring Houzz Pro, so the way we position and communicate its value really matters. A big part of my role is supporting the growth and helping teams have thoughtful, strategic conversations so that pros can see how the platform supports both their day-to-day activities and working towards their goals.

How did you find out about Houzz?
After college, I was working at a resort in Newport Beach when my manager mentioned that his sister had just joined a company called Houzz and they were hiring. I attended one of Houzz’s open interview sessions, which led to a role as an account coordinator. As a team, we were reaching out to construction and design professionals, introducing them to Houzz and building out the community. What started as a great opportunity and a lot of fun, has grown into a 12-year journey that has shaped my career.

What do you enjoy most about your role?
My team and those I work with every day! I firmly believe that businesses succeed when individuals do. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of that growth, especially when it also helps professionals in our community run stronger, more successful businesses. During my time at Houzz, I’ve seen people take on new challenges, learn new ways of selling, and really thrive. It’s been such an honor to be a part of their journey. 

What’s your favorite Houzz Pro feature?
Takeoffs! They’re visual, easy to adopt and have a real wow factor. Pros can immediately see how they’ll save time measuring floor plans and calculating the quantities of building materials, like flooring or outlets, that need to be added to their estimates. The impact on their day-to-day workflow, and ultimately their business, becomes clear very quickly.

What’s something that has surprised you about working here?
I met my wife at Houzz, and we now have two children, something I never would have imagined when I joined in my early twenties. I’ve also been surprised by just how much I’ve learned along the way. The mentorship, relationships and opportunities to grow have had a huge impact on both my career and my life.

What advice would you give to someone starting out at Houzz?
Focus on being an implementer. Coaching and feedback are incredibly valuable, but what really drives growth is how quickly you apply what you learn. There’s also a huge amount of experience across the business, so you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. Ask questions, learn from the people around you and take advantage of the willingness people have to share their knowledge; it makes a real difference early on.

What makes you most excited about the future of Houzz?
The momentum we have right now is really strong. We’ve built a solid foundation through a lot of learning and growth, and now we’re focused on executing and continuing to move forward. It’s exciting to see teams aligned, confident and working toward what’s next together.

What do you do when you’re not working?
I have two young sons — a two-and-a-half-year-old and a 2-month old — so family time and being the best father and husband is a big focus right now! And of course, catching as many Dodger games as possible!