Thao Lai

Thao Lai is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in strategic leadership and product development within the furniture industry. Currently serving as the Director of Strategy Activation at Steelcase since March 2010, Thao plays a pivotal role in building the Strategy Activation Team to enhance customer-focused work across the organization and drive successful outcomes for strategic initiatives. With a strong background in operations, project management, and product engineering, Thao has consistently delivered significant results, including generating approximately $50 million in operating income and leading multiple global projects in product innovation. In addition to a successful corporate career, Thao is the owner of DonThao Photography, specializing in natural light lifestyle and portrait photography. Thao holds both a Master's and Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Grand Valley State University.