Student Spotlight: Anna Reynolds
Name: Anna Reynolds
Program: GLAM
Graduation Year: 2014
Employment Organization/Title: Rodan + Fields, Associate Brand Manager
Why did you choose the NC State GLAM program for your graduate education?
I chose the NC State GLAM program to better sculpt my business career to be more focused on luxury products, such as premium beauty, and to build my network in the luxury industry. I also have a specific interest in French language, culture, and luxury brands so I thought the program was the perfect opportunity to explore my personal interests and to become a more well-rounded luxury business professional.
How did your experience in the program contribute to your professional achievements and successes?
The network of accomplished business leaders that I had access to during the GLAM program has had lasting impacts on my career. The opportunity to speak to business leaders in the luxury space helped me shape my own interests and what career path I wanted to take. Another notable aspect of the program is the experience I gained from working with multicultural and cross-disciplinary classmates on business-focused projects. This experience has made me more adaptable and open to different approaches in my own career.
What did you enjoy most about your time in the GLAM program?
The opportunity to engage with diverse business leaders from all sectors of the luxury industry and to hear about their personal career journey, challenges and approaches to business.
What are a few of the most impactful classes/lessons you learned during your time at NC State?
The Entrepreneurship class taught me a lot about what it takes to start a business and manage it successfully. I was able to partner with a local premium menswear company to learn about their marketing strategies and business development opportunities, then consult them on areas of business improvement. The lesson coming out of this experience is that all businesses are vastly different and what’s right for one brand or company, may not be the best approach for another. It’s important to always balance your point of view with what’s best for the brand or company.
What are your lasting impressions of the GLAM program?
Limitless opportunities, global and diverse approach to the luxury industry, teamwork and partnership, and support systems and networks that you can leverage throughout your career.
What advice would you give for prospective and current students who are interested in your industry/profession?
Seize opportunities you wouldn’t normally consider as this often leads you to discover things you would have never thought you were passionate about. Be open-minded and don’t think of your career as a lateral progression; always diversify your experiences and knowledge.
Could you give a brief explanation of your current line of work, and what has led you to it?
I am an Associate Brand Manager for Rodan + Fields’ acne portfolio and new product innovation. I develop and implement marketing and branding strategies to grow our business and to better meet the needs of the consumer, including unique marketing campaigns, promotions, consumer targeting, and innovation pipeline development. I chose a career path in brand management and marketing because I am passionate about beauty and skincare and love the challenge of building and growing a brand.
What do you believe is your most interesting accomplishment since graduation?
Launching a brand new color cosmetics category for Rodan + Fields at our 2018 sales convention to 50,000 consultants, including unique, global product launch offers an experiential product expo. Consultants said that this was their favorite convention yet and we oversold our sales targets.
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