Bulldog 100 Profile: Jami Kimbrough (ABJ ’08)

Bulldog 100 Profile: Jami Kimbrough (ABJ ’08)

February 05, 2025

This is one of a series of interviews honoring Grady College alumni who have been recognized as Bulldog 100 recipients in 2024. The Bulldog 100 is sponsored by the UGA Alumni Association and celebrates the 100 fastest-growing businesses owned or operated by UGA alumni.

Jami Horowitz Kimbrough (ABJ ’08), an advertising alumna of Grady College, is the vice president of marketing for Surcheros. The following question and answer session was conducted. 

What was your first job in the communications field, and how did it set the stage for your career growth?

My first job post college was in advertising as an assistant media buyer supporting the Taco Bell business – little did I know that one job would set me up 18 years later to still work in the restaurant marketing space. Because I worked on Taco Bell, I was referred to a job for Wendy’s, from there I went to work for Tropical Smoothie Café and so on. Over time I have worked with many national brands (Church’s Chicken, Coca- Cola, Outback Steakhouse, etc.) and also had the exciting opportunity to support some amazing smaller brands as they are beginning their growth trajectory like my current role with Surcheros.

Kimbrough poses at the opening of a Surcherros. (Photo: Jami Kimbrough)

What advice would you give to graduating seniors? 

Network, network, network. Build your village. These are the people who will understand the subtle nuances of your career that your friends and family may not. These are the people who will help you find open roles, include you in industry organizations, and cheer you on as you grow and succeed.

What does it mean to you to be recognized as a Bulldog 100 honoree?

Little did I know how much a few short years in Athens would impact the rest of my life. From the lifelong friends I made during my college years to the ongoing connections and shared camaraderie that would come from being alumni. The Bulldog 100 is an elite group of which I am proud to be a part of. It is made all the sweeter celebrating along my CEO Luke Christian and other members of my senior team.  

Kimbrough poses before a UGA football game with friends during her time at the University of Georgia. (Photo: Jami Kimbrough)

What challenges have you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them? 

A challenge that nobody likes to talk about is the reality of an ever-changing economy and work in the retail sector. Having spent most of my career supporting the restaurant category, I have seen economy shifts, impacted sales and ownership groups that are required to make hard decisions and downsize. I have been impacted by downsizing several times in my career. My biggest piece of advice is don’t be embarrassed and don’t hesitate to let your network know that you are on the market and looking for your next opportunity.

How do you continue to learn and grow in your field? 

Attend conferences, join networking groups, keep up with the trades, and most importantly don’t be afraid to say, ‘I have no idea what you are talking about. Can you explain it to me?’

Kimbrough is one of eight Grady alumni named to this year’s Bulldog 100 list, named by the UGA Alumni Association. They will be celebrated on Feb. 21. The list of Grady College alumni and their businesses include:

  • Ashley Kohler (ABJ ’96), Awesome Inc
  • Josh Cagliani (ABJ ’09), Big Apple Services
  • Elizabeth Newton (ABJ ’99), enewton design
  • Adam Hirsch (ABJ ’04), Infinite Agave
  • Jason Russell (ABJ ’96), Stable Kernel
  • Jami Horowitz (ABJ ’08), Surcheros
  • Stuart Watson (ABJ ’97), WinGen by Swordpoint Services
  • Selby Hill (ABJ ’14), Yonder Yoga

Author: Lauren A. Pike, lauren.pike@uga.edu