As Director of Marketing at Alkimi, Milly Putley specialises in bridging the gap between Web3 technology and digital advertising.
Milly leads strategic initiatives that drive transparency and innovation in programmatic advertising, focusing on building compelling narratives, fostering top-tier partnerships, and scaling community growth.
Web3 is one of the most exciting spaces to work in today, full of opportunities to innovate, collaborate, elevate.
Web3 is one of the most exciting spaces to work in today, full of opportunities to innovate, collaborate, elevate.But there’s no denying that it’s a male-dominated space. Women constitute approximately 27% of the Web3 workforce.
I’ve found this industry both challenging and incredibly rewarding. While it’s true that navigating a predominantly male environment comes with its own set of hurdles, it has also been a space where I’ve discovered the power of supportive teams, allies, and inspiring women who are reshaping the narrative.
Finding success in the industry is about finding your voice and making it count.
Breaking the ‘bro’ chain
Like many industries in their early stages, Web3 has pockets of a “crypto bro” culture. While this hyper-masculine stereotype doesn’t define the industry, it does create unique challenges for women.
There’s an unspoken pressure to prove yourself and demonstrate technical knowledge or industry expertise before you’re taken as seriously as your male counterparts. Experiences like being interrupted, having your ideas overlooked, or facing assumptions about your role are challenges many women navigate.
Luckily, I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible allies and collaborators who are deeply committed to building with integrity and creating a more inclusive and welcoming Web3 space.
Women supporting women
Through all of this, the support of other women has been a game changer for me. Whether through mentorship, guidance, or encouragement, the generosity of women in this space has been integral to my growth.
This support hasn’t just come from my direct colleagues. It has come from mentors, casual chats, and the shared experiences of women who understand the unique challenges we face. Sometimes, the smallest gestures—words of encouragement, practical advice, or a shared moment of understanding—have made the biggest difference.
The best women leaders I’ve met aren’t just climbing the ladder—they’re holding the door open for others to follow. Claire Glesson-Landry has been a massive support of mine throughout my career, always stepping in with the right advice at the right time.
Mentorship doesn’t have to be formal, either. Some of the most valuable insights I’ve gained have come from spontaneous conversations at industry events, Slack messages, or coffee chats.
Teamwork makes the dream work
The biggest shift has been working in an environment where ideas are judged on their merit, not on who delivers them.
When your colleagues champion your contributions and value your expertise, it’s empowering. Not just for your confidence but for the quality of work you can produce together
The lesson I’ve learned is that success isn’t about being the loudest voice; it’s about being in a room where your voice matters. Truly great workplaces don’t just include diverse perspectives—they actively rely on them to shape decisions. If you find yourself in a room where this isn’t happening, it’s worth questioning if it’s the right room for you.
Rewriting the rules
As women, our strength lies not just in overcoming challenges but in redefining the space itself. By championing each other, we’re breaking down stereotypes and reshaping Web3 and Adtech into industries that value diverse voices and perspectives.
For me, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges, but it’s also been filled with opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive, thanks to the power of a supportive team and the incredible women in my corner.
