Talent Champion – Gregory Lewis

Talent Champion Spotlight

2025 Talent Champion - Gregory Lewis

Gregory Lewis
Senior Vice President, Global Brand Marketing
Citi

Gregory Lewis is Senior Vice President, Global Brand Marketing at Citi, where he spearheads Advertising & Brand Activation, driving Citi’s marketing strategy and enterprise campaigns to enhance brand reputation and preference.

Since joining Citi in 2015, Gregory has held key marketing leadership positions across Brand Strategy & Insights, Visual Identity, Sponsorships, and Consumer Advertising, with responsibilities spanning the US, EMEA, and APAC regions.

With over two decades of international marketing experience, including tenures at Interpublic Group and McCann Worldgroup, Gregory has crafted impactful integrated campaigns for renowned brands such as American Express, Maybelline, L’Oréal, Nordstrom, Sarah Jessica Parker (SJP), Macy’s, Condé Nast, Tableau Software, Pfizer, and Novartis Pharmaceuticals.

A strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, Gregory actively contributes to Citi’s Black Heritage and Pride ERGs. He also extends his commitment beyond the corporate sphere through his involvement with the ANA Educational Foundation and Jeepserve, a non-profit dedicated to positive community impact and meaningful change in the Greater Atlanta Metropolitan area.

Gregory is deeply committed to mentoring emerging marketing leaders, sharing his expertise with academia, and inspiring students to pursue careers in marketing and advertising. His dedication has significantly contributed to shaping the next generation of industry professionals, and his efforts to advance marketing capabilities and foster opportunities have been widely recognized.

What makes you passionate about the future of the marketing industry?

What excites me most about the future of marketing is the intersection of creativity, technology, and inclusion. Over my career, I’ve seen the industry evolve from traditional campaigns to a world where data, AI, and human insight converge to create truly personalized and impactful experiences. The pace of innovation is unprecedented, and it gives us the opportunity to not only deepen brand connections but to tell stories that reflect and resonate with the diverse audiences we serve.

Equally important, the industry is becoming more intentional about representation and equity—ensuring marketing doesn’t just sell but shapes culture in a way that drives opportunity for all. I’m passionate about helping the next generation of talent see marketing not just as a career, but as a platform to create meaningful change, build communities, and amplify voices that have historically been underrepresented.

The future of marketing is about purpose meeting progress—and I’m energized by the role we get to play in making that future real.

What is the most impactful career advice you've ever received?

The most impactful career advice I’ve ever received was simple: “Stay curious, stay visible, and stay true.”

Early in my career, I was reminded that the marketing landscape is constantly evolving—and the only way to thrive is to keep learning, exploring, and asking questions. “Stay visible” meant stepping outside my comfort zone, sharing ideas even when I wasn’t the most senior person in the room, and building authentic relationships. And “stay true” has guided me through every decision—aligning the work I do with my values, especially around representation, equity, and mentorship.

That advice has shaped how I lead today—championing teams, pushing innovation, and making sure the work we create doesn’t just perform but leaves the industry more open and inclusive for those coming next.

What is the most valuable skill students should have before they begin their career?

The most valuable skill students can develop before starting their career is adaptability rooted in curiosity.

Marketing—and business as a whole—is evolving at lightning speed. From AI and data-driven insights to shifting cultural and consumer expectations, the only constant is change. The students who thrive won’t just master the tools of today; they’ll stay curious enough to keep learning and flexible enough to pivot when those tools evolve tomorrow.

Adaptability also extends beyond technology—it’s about listening, collaborating, and seeing challenges as opportunities. Combine that with curiosity, and you don’t just keep up with change—you help lead it. That mindset will carry students through any role, industry shift, or career stage.

What advice would you give to students who hope to make a meaningful impact as they enter the industry?

My advice to students entering the industry is this: lead with purpose, not just ambition.

It’s easy to get caught up in titles, promotions, and the pace of the business. But the people who make the greatest impact are the ones who align their work with a bigger mission—whether that’s creating more inclusive storytelling, building brands that truly serve their audiences, or mentoring others as they rise.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of curiosity and courage. Ask questions, seek out mentors, and don’t be afraid to challenge old ways of thinking. The industry needs fresh voices and perspectives now more than ever. When you combine purpose with a willingness to learn and speak up, you don’t just build a career—you help shape the future of the industry.

2025 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