When we think about leadership in business and technology, it’s often framed as a perfectly mapped journey — a series of calculated steps that lead to the top. But for Melanie Prange, Managing Director of MSTAGE (part of the E-CONOMIX Group), the path to leadership has been anything but scripted. Instead, it has been defined by courage, community, and a willingness to say yes before she felt ready.
Melanie recently joined Nicole Donnelly on the Hello Moxie x Magento Association Podcast to share her story. From her earliest moments of stepping into leadership unexpectedly, to her vision for the future of e-commerce and AI, Melanie’s insights are both inspiring and practical.
Saying Yes Before You’re Ready
One of the most memorable moments Melanie shared was about being thrown into leading a client workshop alone when her team suddenly couldn’t attend.
“I was so nervous. The first 10 minutes were very shaky,” she admitted. “But then I found my rhythm, they asked questions, I knew the answers, and by the end, I didn’t want it to stop. It was so much fun. That was the moment where I started to step into the spotlight.”
That experience shifted her perspective. “Most of my biggest growth moments came when I felt unprepared — but I said yes anyway,” she said. This philosophy eventually led her to accept her first keynote speaking opportunity, and later to step into the CEO role at MSTAGE when asked by the company’s founders.
Her message is clear: courage matters more than readiness.
Why Women Need to Be Louder
While Melanie’s story highlights individual courage, it also speaks to a broader truth about women in tech and leadership. She believes visibility is crucial.
“Sometimes women in tech are just not that loud,” she said. “So maybe sometimes, just be louder to show that you are there. I met a lot of incredible women at e-commerce events and in the Magento Association. They are there. Just show you are there as a role model, and I’m sure a lot of incredible women will follow.”
For Melanie, being “loud” isn’t about noise — it’s about stepping into the spotlight so others can see what’s possible. Representation, she argues, creates ripple effects.
Leadership Rooted in Empathy and Diversity
Melanie also shared her belief that leadership isn’t one-size-fits-all.
“Leadership can’t be copy-pasted. It has to be shaped around people,” she said.
As a female leader, she has seen how empathy makes a difference. “Maybe sometimes female leaders are a little bit more empathetic. At least that’s what I experienced — for young women, it was easier to talk to me than to a male leader at the beginning of their career. And I love to encourage them to achieve something.”
She also emphasized the value of diversity in leadership. Working alongside a male co-leader at MSTAGE has shown her the strength of complementary skills. “We divide responsibilities based on our strengths, and together it’s a perfect fit. Each of us alone wouldn’t be as successful as we are together.”
Community and “Co-opetition”
Another theme that runs through Melanie’s story is the importance of community. She co-founded E-commerce Horizon, a local event that began as casual conversations with a colleague over sushi and wine.
“Community is important because it’s not company-driven, it’s people-driven,” she said. “Now it feels like meeting old friends every time. It’s not about showing who’s the best, it’s about celebrating each other and learning from each other.”
Melanie also embraces what she calls “co-opetition.” “I like this word more than competition — working together, even if you’re in the same industry. You can profit from each other and help each other. That’s just a great way to work.”
AI as a Door Opener
Looking ahead, Melanie is excited about how artificial intelligence will reshape e-commerce.
“For me, AI can be a real door opener,” she said. “I imagine a future where my 94-year-old grandfather could just say to his digital shopping assistant that he needs new trousers, and it knows his preferences. With one click it’s done and sent to him. That could be such a great future — making e-commerce fun and accessible for everyone.”
But she cautions that businesses need to do their homework first. “If you have a bad process and just put AI on it, it doesn’t get better — it’s just more efficient, but still not good. Sometimes a smart automation is enough. Start with small steps. A success early on is really important to get people on board.”
Key Takeaways from Melanie Prange
Melanie’s journey is packed with lessons for leaders, entrepreneurs, and women in business:
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Say yes before you feel ready. Growth happens outside of your comfort zone.
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Be louder. Visibility creates space for others to follow.
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Lead with empathy and diversity. Great leadership is built around people, not formulas.
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Build long-term relationships. Success in business comes from trust and loyalty.
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Lean on community and co-opetition. Collaboration fuels innovation.
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Use AI wisely. Strong processes and small wins pave the way for big transformation.
Melanie Prange’s story reminds us that leadership isn’t about perfection — it’s about courage, connection, and vision. By stepping forward, being louder, and embracing innovation, she continues to pave the way for a more inclusive and innovative future in e-commerce.
