Tessa Jacocks has long been a tour de force in entrepreneurial innovation and social advocacy, a journey that took root in her college years. She co-founded Teysha to marry business acumen with a commitment to social change. Teysha empowered indigenous artisans in Latin America through microloans, heralding her ethos of sustainable and socially responsible commerce from the get-go. Transitioning from Teysha, she joined the nascent team at Bumble as a cornerstone employee, beginning as the Director of Marketing. Her role evolved into becoming the Head of Growth and Innovation, orchestrating multifaceted strategies that catapulted the brand from a startup to a household name. Her unique twist was incorporating Bumble merchandise, which served the dual purpose of brand enhancement and social good by funneling proceeds to The Whole Planet Foundation.
Her ambition led her to Argo, a hub for short films, expanding her portfolio as their Head of Growth and Innovation. Yet, her entrepreneurial appetite sought further nourishment, culminating in the birth of Shepard Collective, co-founded with Chelsea Maclin. The consultancy is a testament to her proven ability to leverage growth and innovation across different sectors. Outside the boardroom, Tessa is no less committed to making a difference. She's a fervent advocate for animal welfare, and her household reflects this passion, housing two Pyrenees mix puppies, an epileptic senior dog, and two adopted felines. Beyond her home, she's laying the groundwork for a wellness retreat that serves as a sanctuary for rescued animals. Philanthropy also features prominently in her life. Her partnership with Be The Match is another way she amplifies marginalized voices, utilizing her social media platforms to galvanize support for their cause.