Talent Champion – Carol Vella

Talent Champion Spotlight

2023 Talent Champion - Carol Vella

Carol Vella
Associate Director, Marketing – Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Walmart

Carol leads Early Careers Recruiting Strategy & Execution for Walmart U.S. She recently transitioned to this role from Walmart’s Marketing Team where she led Diversity, Equity & Inclusion initiatives focused on talent, including early careers marketing talent, creative production and internal training. She started her career at Walmart in 2011 as a category marketer after completing her MBA at Washington University in St. Louis, MO.

What prompted you to get involved with the AEF?

Walmart is a huge supporter of the ANA overall and we are honored to support AEF’s mission to help build the next generation of marketing talent. Our partner school, University of Arkansas – Pine Bluff, is right in our backyard so it complements our desire to invest in future talent in the area.

Why are you passionate about the future of the industry?

The Marketing industry, as a whole, has so much potential to impact society, today and in the future. It gives companies a voice in society in a unique way. The power of the industry, paired with its ever-changing landscape, requires that we have the best of the best influencing perceptions and behaviors.

What is the best career advice you've ever received?

Constantly seek opportunities to learn.

Why do you feel it is so important to inspire the next generation of diverse talent?

Our industry will be better thanks to the next generation of diverse talent. New perspectives, by definition, infuse creativity into our processes, our ways of thinking and our marketing!

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love seeing other marketers, especially those early in their career, find success. There is nothing better than celebrating those successes!

What advice would you give to students as they consider entering the industry?

Take time to invest in your network. Keep up with connections but also reach out to those that pique your interest. This will allow you to learn outside of your day-to-day job but also be in a position to pivot as needed. Never too soon to network!

2023 Talent Champions

"Our future marketing and advertising leaders are not just looking for a job, they are looking for a meaningful career that will make a positive impact on society."
— Gord McLean, President and CEO at ANA Educational Foundation