Shari Ajayi
Public Relations Director
Saatva
Shari is a seasoned communications expert with over 18 years of experience in marcomms, reputed for her contributions to elevating brands and fostering diversity. Currently, as the PR Director at Saatva, she has established the brand's PR infrastructure from the ground up, crafting innovative strategies that have redefined Saatva’s public image and earned significant media recognition. Notably, she led Saatva’s first feature on Good Morning America in 2023, which became one of the brand’s most successful press campaigns––only to be surpassed by the 2024 iteration. Under her guidance, Saatva’s earned media presence has flourished, and her launch of the Press Room on Saatva’s website has created a pivotal resource for media and consumer engagement alike. Beyond her achievements in media relations, Shari champions diversity within Saatva, having crafted a thriving employee advocacy channel for Saatva’s LinkedIn leadership, boosting the visibility of Saatva’s leadership team and building credibility within the industry. Shari is a proactive leader in supporting and elevating minority-owned businesses outside of Saatva as well; she is a founding member of CartStars and empowHER, two networks that bring together eCommerce and retail leaders dedicated to growth and innovation, and she’s also involved in ForbesBlk and the Black Excellence Society. Prior to joining Saatva, Shari held communications roles at The Rug Company USA, Frette, B&B Italia, Molton Brown USA, and TSE.
Career Highlights
Joined Saatva as the brand's first in-house publicist
Founded the Facebook group Black Owned New York to support minority-owned businesses
Recently accepted an invitation to join the Women In Retail Leadership Circle