TribesAndHistory: What’s your name, and how would you like to be addressed?
Anne: My name is Anne Otieno.

TribesAndHistory: How can readers connect with you? (LinkedIn, Instagram, personal website?)
Anne: Instagram or LinkedIn works best!

TribesAndHistory: Where are you from?
Anne: I’m originally from Kenya, specifically the western side of the country. I come from Kisumu, near Lake Victoria.

TribesAndHistory: What do you do?
Anne: I lead Google Analytics Data Ingestion products, enabling customers to harness first-party data for improved ad spend measurement in a privacy-first digital marketing environment. As a Global Product Solutions Lead, I serve as the Product Manager within Sales conversations and the Sales expert in Product discussions, bridging the gap between technical innovation and customer-centric strategies.

When we’re launching new features, I focus on commercialization strategy—how we communicate the value of these features to our sales teams so they can pitch effectively to customers. I also ensure our teams have the resources they need to promote these products.

I started at Google as a Product Solutions Consultant, providing technical support for Google Ads and Analytics. That involved troubleshooting client issues and collaborating with engineers to solve them. I did that for about three years before transitioning into my current role.

TribesAndHistory: What inspired you to pursue this career?
Anne: Honestly, I didn’t even know this career existed when I started. In college, I majored in Economics but got curious about technology and added Computer Science. That decision kicked off my journey into tech.

My first exposure to this field was during my internship at Google, where I worked as a product specialist. That’s when I fell in love with technology and products. Even though I studied Computer Science, I found I thrived in roles that involved working with people rather than solely coding.

This role allows me to blend my technical background with my interpersonal skills, focusing on product management and development, which feels like the perfect fit.

TribesAndHistory: Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that shaped you as a leader?
Anne: One big moment came when I applied for Google’s Associate Product Management (APM) Program. It’s a competitive rotational program foundational for aspiring product managers. I prepared for over a year, went through multiple rounds of interviews and tasks, but in the end, I didn’t get it.

That experience taught me a lot about handling failure. It was hard because I had worked so hard for it, but it also forced me to reevaluate my approach. I realized I didn’t need a title to start building the skills I wanted. I began focusing on product-related work within my existing role, seeking mentorship, and positioning myself for future opportunities.

Eventually, when my team merged with another, I was recommended for a role more aligned with product management. That set the stage for where I am today.

TribesAndHistory: Would you say that experience made you stronger?
Anne: Absolutely. It made me more empathetic as a leader and more resilient overall. It also taught me that timing matters. Sometimes things don’t happen when you want them to because you’re not ready yet, and that’s okay. I’ve learned to trust that delays can prepare you for what’s ahead.

TribesAndHistory: How has your African heritage shaped your leadership and career journey?
Anne: My African heritage has given me resilience and a unique perspective. Growing up in Kenya, you learn to approach challenges creatively and resourcefully. That mindset has been invaluable, especially in the fast-paced tech world.

It also allows me to bring diversity to the table. In product development, for example, I’m always thinking about inclusivity and ensuring that products resonate with a global audience. Being Kenyan and speaking multiple languages often sparks curiosity and respect, which helps me connect with people on a deeper level.

TribesAndHistory: What legacy do you hope to leave for the next generation of Africans?
Anne: I want to be an inspiration to young people, especially first-generation students from rural areas. Navigating the corporate world is tough when no one in your family has done it before. I want them to see that it’s possible to overcome challenges and succeed, no matter where you come from.

TribesAndHistory: What about your heritage makes you proud?
Anne: It’s the richness of the African experience—the community, the resilience, and the simple joys of life. Growing up in Kenya, we didn’t have much materially, but we had strong bonds, creativity, and happiness. That upbringing shaped me in ways I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Even now, I proudly carry my Kenyan identity with me. I introduce myself as Kenyan in almost every interaction. It’s part of who I am, and I love sharing that with the world.