40 Under 40: Renee Fuller

Editor’s Note: Renee Fuller will participate in “A Message to My Younger Self” 40 under 40 panel on Friday, Sept. 11, at 10 a.m. in the Peyton Anderson Forum.

Congratulations to Renee Fuller (ABJ ’10), on being named a 40 under 40 honoree by the UGA Alumni Association.

Fuller is a Grady College graduate and the vice president of marketing at OLLY, a wellness and vitamin supplement brand. Previously, Fuller held leadership roles at Milk Bar and McBride Sisters Wine Company, helping expand brand visibility and create culturally relevant marketing programs. Fuller also mentors students through the UGA Mentor Program and supports the Black Alumni Scholarship Fund through the 1961 Club. Additionally, Fuller volunteers with Urban Mentors and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Following are excerpts from a Q&A with Fuller.

What experience during your time at Grady College had the biggest influence on where you are today?

My senior year at Grady, being part of Newsource, had one of the biggest influences on where I am today. As broadcast journalism majors, we were responsible for producing a real news broadcast, which meant being out in the field reporting, filming and getting in front of the camera. It taught me how to communicate clearly, think on my feet and, most importantly, have confidence in how I present myself and my ideas. Those are skills I use constantly today, whether I’m presenting to a large audience, speaking on a panel or representing my brand on camera.

What skill(s) or advice should graduates and young alumni have for success early in their careers?

Be curious and don’t be afraid to take a path that looks different from the one you originally planned. Early in your career, focus on building experiences and learning as much as you can, rather than just chasing the next title. Some of the opportunities that stretched me the most weren’t necessarily part of my original plan, but they ultimately helped shape my career. And invest in relationships along the way. Do great work, ask questions and stay connected to the people you meet throughout your career.

What accomplishment or moment in your career are you most proud of?

One of the moments I’m most proud of was leading OLLY’s partnership with the Golden State Valkyries. OLLY became the first vitamin and supplement brand to partner with a WNBA team, making the partnership especially meaningful. I’m a huge advocate for women’s sports, and the Valkyries’ values and mission aligned so beautifully with OLLY. Being able to bring together a brand I was helping lead with something I personally believe in was incredibly special. It was one of those moments where my work and something I genuinely care about came together.

What do you believe is your biggest strength and how has it helped you in your current role?

One of my biggest strengths is my resilience and ability to adapt. Every role and every stage of my career has brought a different set of challenges, and I’ve learned to be comfortable stepping into situations that are new to me. I ask a lot of questions, I’m not afraid to challenge assumptions and I try to learn quickly. That has become even more important as I’ve taken on larger leadership roles because I’ve learned that being a strong leader isn’t about having every answer. It’s about listening, learning and helping your team do their best work.

What does success mean to you?

To me, success is about making a meaningful impact and creating something that reaches beyond me. I want to be successful in my career and build generational wealth for my family, but I also want that success to create opportunities for others. I want to look back and know that I did work I’m proud of, opened doors for people coming after me and created a foundation my family can continue to build on.

Rapid Fire Round

Favorite Podcast?

NPR’s Up First. It’s one of the first things I listen to in the morning to catch up on the top news stories of the day.

One job-related tool you can’t live without?

My notebook. I’m constantly bouncing between strategy, creative ideas, and meetings, so I always need somewhere to capture my thoughts.

Favorite place you’ve traveled?

Cabo. There’s something about the water that is so serene. No matter how many times I visit, I immediately feel at peace. And I love it so much that I’m actually getting married there in January!

Item on your bucket list?

Going on a mission trip to Africa. I would love the opportunity to serve and connect with a community there.

Editor: Sarah Kate Maher, skm01341@uga.edu