Trisha Malconian brings a clear focus to every challenge she takes on as Category Manager at Wayfair. Over nearly five years with the company, she has become a trusted leader known for her strategic thinking, commitment to growth and ability to elevate those around her.
“Trisha constantly prioritizes opportunities for learning, professional development and category growth. Her leadership is characterized by a synergy of analytical insight, transparency and genuine care for both people and business results,” said Sheryl Ding, Supplier Management Associate.
Read on to learn how Trisha leverages her network, drives impact and supports her team with purpose and intention.
Tell us about your role and responsibilities.
I oversee the Hardware Category (Doors, Cabinet & Door Hardware, and Shutters) at Wayfair. I lead the overall strategy to grow the business, improve the customer experience and strengthen our partnerships with key national brands. A big part of my role involves collaborating across teams — from Merchandising to Advertising — to make sure we’re aligned and delivering on our goals.
I also lead a team of Supplier Relationship Managers who focus on building trust with our partners and growing our supplier base. We work together to make sure we’re offering a strong, relevant assortment that meets customer needs and reflects trends in the market. I love that the role challenges me to think both strategically and creatively whether it’s navigating change, solving problems or finding new ways to drive value. One of the most rewarding parts is supporting and developing my team while fostering an environment where we can all grow and succeed.
Your co-worker described you as the go-to person for anything. What do you think has helped you earn that reputation?
I’ve always loved meeting new people, and I definitely get that from my parents. Growing up, it felt like we couldn’t go anywhere without one of them running into someone they knew, whether coworkers, old teammates or even someone they just randomly met once at the store. They’ve always been the kind of people others could go to and confide in, and that left a big impression on me. Because of their example, building relationships has become a really natural and meaningful part of my life.
I’ve been lucky enough to meet people through sports, clubs, work and moving to new places, and along the way I’ve connected with so many people who have totally different interests and backgrounds. I do my best to be someone others can count on, and I think that’s played a big role in helping maintain those friendships and connections over time.
How do you approach managing difficult challenges from a leadership perspective?
I’ve always seen change and unpredictability as an opportunity rather than an obstacle. For me, those moments bring a sense of excitement — a chance to grow, think differently and push boundaries in ways that might not have happened otherwise. I genuinely enjoy being in fast-paced, high-pressure environments because they bring out my creativity and drive.
Stepping into leadership roles has always felt like a natural progression for me. Whether it was serving as captain of my track team years ago or later leading professional teams, I’ve found that I naturally gravitate toward supporting others and helping to bring out the best in them.
I believe a good leader is someone who takes ownership when things get tough but makes sure to shine the spotlight on others when things go well. Especially during uncertain times, I try to be a steady source of guidance and clarity while also making sure my team has the freedom and tools they need to grow.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve received, and how has it impacted you?
One of the best pieces of advice I’ve received is: “It takes six months to learn a job and six months to get good at it.” While the exact timing can vary, the core idea has stuck with me, especially during times of transition or when stepping into a new role. It’s a reminder to be patient, ask questions and embrace curiosity rather than rushing to have all the answers right away.
This mindset has not only helped me personally navigate change with more confidence, but it’s also something I try to pass along to my team and mentees. I encourage them to take full advantage of the early days — to extend that “newbie” phase in a way that allows them to absorb as much as they can, explore different perspectives and build a strong foundation. When you give yourself (and others) the space to truly learn, you set the stage to eventually bring fresh ideas, improve processes and make a meaningful impact.
What are you doing when you aren’t working?
When I’m not working, chances are I’m off on some kind of adventure with my husband — anything from a quick trip up to Portland, Maine for good food and coastal views to visiting family back in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania or planning our next international getaway.
We love exploring new places, whether it’s across the ocean or just a town over. When we’re home, I’m all about being outside, checking out local breweries or spending time with friends and family.
I also really enjoy hosting. I’m the type who can’t have people over without putting together some kind of snack spread, even if it’s just a random Tuesday. Come football season, I take hosting to the next level. I’m a die-hard Steelers fan, and while my husband roots for another team (we try not to talk about it), we still love turning game days into an excuse to gather people, eat way too much food and yell at the TV in good fun.
Where do you call home and what does “home” mean to you?
I’m lucky enough to have two places I call home; I’m originally from Butler, PA (just outside of Pittsburgh) and over the years I’ve also built a life in Boston that means a lot to me. It’s hard to pick a favorite — both places feel like home in their own way.
To me, home is more than just a location. It’s where you can be fully yourself, where everyone feels welcome and where there’s a sense of comfort and ease. I love creating that kind of space — one that reflects who I am and brings together the people I care about most.
What’s your favorite Wayfair product that you’ve purchased?
My favorite Wayfair find has to be my Red Barrel Studio Upholstered Recliner. It’s super comfy and adds just the right pop of color to my living room. You’d never guess it’s a recliner, which makes it feel like a fun little hidden gem in the space. I use it all the time, whether I’m reading, watching one of my favorite movies or just relaxing at the end of the day. I picked yellow as a way to step outside my usual style. It was definitely a bolder move for me, but I wanted to bring in something vibrant and cheerful.