Andrea Romero is a seasoned communications executive and Senior Vice President at Ogilvy, leading integrated teams across a diverse portfolio of consumer, corporate, and reputational accounts. Her expertise encompasses global media relations, executive visibility, brand reputation, crisis management, and multicultural communications. With a deep understanding of the transformative power of storytelling, Andrea leverages her Hispanic heritage to champion inclusive narratives and drive meaningful impact. Prior to Ogilvy, she spearheaded Colombia’s award-winning communications campaign at ProColombia, significantly elevating the country’s global image and achieving unprecedented positive media coverage. Andrea is passionate about developing communications strategies that not only build strong brands but also resonate deeply with diverse audiences, creating meaningful connections and driving positive change.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with CXO Outlook Magazine, Andrea shared her professional trajectory, insights into the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, the secret mantra behind her success, her favorite quote, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Hi Andrea. What inspired you to pursue a career in communications and media relations, and what motivates you to continue helping companies and clients shape their brands and reputations?
My journey into communications wasn’t exactly planned. I started in marketing, but after a few years, I realized the importance of communications, especially public relations. I became captivated by the transformative power of storytelling – how narratives shape perceptions, evoke emotions, and ultimately drive change.
It all clicked for me when when I was working with the Colombian government (ProColombia), to transform Colombia’s image in the United States. The challenge was to break through preconceived perceptions and share Colombia’s real story. We discovered that honest, authentic, and engaging storytelling was key to opening minds and driving positive change.
Storytelling isn’t just what I do; it’s part of who I am. It influences everything from my work to my worldview. My background has taught me that every story has multiple layers, and its telling depends on the narrator’s perspective. What excites me now is helping brands uncover their unique stories and craft narratives that resonate deeply with their audience. Because whether it’s a personal anecdote or a brand’s message, authentic communication is what creates truly meaningful connections.
What do you love the most about your current role?
What I love most about my current role is the energy. The agency environment is fast-paced, and I get to work with incredibly people on really interesting projects. Jumping between projects keeps me busy, constantly learning, pushing my creative boundaries, and honestly, helps me stay on ahead on this ever-changing media landscape. But what really inspires me is being part of a team that’s not just about the hype. We’re focused on making a real difference for our clients and their communities. Being immersed in that kind of dynamic, forward-thinking atmosphere is a real privilege.
Going forward, what role do you believe communications and media relations will play in shaping the future of business and society, and how do you see your work contributing to this future?
I think communications play a critical role in our society and everything we do. We’re at a pivotal moment where technology influences every aspect of our lives. Clear communication and strong earned media relations are essential for building trust and creating real impact. In today’s world, trust is paramount, and the most effective way to build it is by earning influence, not buying it. My work is dedicated to authentic engagement, connecting brands and consumers on a deeper level, and ensuring diverse voices are heard and valued.
On a personal level, I believe we’re experiencing significant momentum for Latinos in the United States. Now more than ever, it’s crucial for professionals like me, with diverse cultural backgrounds, to embrace our heritage and contribute to a richer, more inclusive understanding of our communities. It’s both an opportunity and a responsibility to continue working towards a more equitable and representative communications landscape.
What are your thoughts on diversity and inclusion in your field? How important is it to have authentic conversations with leaders, professionals, and changemakers to create more acceptance across the globe?
Diversity and inclusion aren’t just trendy terms; they’re essential for our industry to evolve and stay relevant. There’s definitely been progress, but we still have a long way to go. It’s not enough to simply have diverse representation in the room, we need to ensure that those voices are heard. We need to create spaces where everyone feels welcomed to share their unique perspectives, regardless of their background.
As a Latino immigrant in the US, I’ve experienced some of this progress firsthand. But we need to continue educating and raising awareness among other professionals, clients, and especially with those at the top. Also, I think it is equally important to empower other professionals to see their heritage as a strength and encourage them to embrace it. For me, being Hispanic carries a significant responsibility, and I’m committed to use my platform to continue making progress towards a more inclusive industry.
You were recently recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Communications for 2024. Our readers would love to know the secret mantra behind your success.
I don’t think I have a specific mantra, but I can tell you how I approach everything I do, both professionally and personally. I feel incredibly fortunate for the opportunities I’ve been given, the doors that others have opened for me, and the mentors and leaders who have believed in me, sometimes even when I didn’t believe in myself. That’s why I always invest in my team. My goal—my “secret,” if you will—is to believe in my people, empower them, provide a clear vision, and never stop learning. Surrounding myself with talented individuals and fostering a collaborative environment has been key to my growth. Success isn’t a solo act; it’s a team sport built on mutual respect and shared goals. I hope that’s how people see me—not just as a leader, but as part of a winning team where everyone shines.
If you could have a one-hour meeting with someone famous who is alive, who would it be and why?
I have a few amazing leaders come to mind, and Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand is at the top. Her ability to deeply connect with people, even during moments of profound grief, is truly inspiring. Her leadership style is also unique and powerful. I admire her ability to maintain composure and compassion during difficult times, while still leading with strength and vulnerability. However, I’m most inspired by how she was able to lead a country while raising a young family. As a working mom, I know how difficult is to find that balance and learning from her experience would be invaluable.
Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are?
Without a doubt, the person I’m most grateful for is my husband. His unwavering support has been everything. He’s always believed in me, even back when I was younger and hadn’t accomplished much professionally. He constantly encouraged me to dream, aim higher, to pursue opportunities even when it meant sacrifices for him. I’ve leaned on him for support, guidance, and vision throughout my entire journey. Knowing he’s there to sustain me, guide me, and propel me forward has been transformative, especially as a woman navigating both career and family. His support has allowed me to thrive professionally while also finding fulfillment as a mother and wife. It’s that balance that makes me feel truly whole.
How do you keep your mind healthy and stay resilient? And how do you motivate your team?
Staying mentally healthy starts with my relationship with God. That constant communication keeps me grounded and reminds me that my worth isn’t defined by external validation, but by God’s purpose for my life. That frees me from a lot of anxiety. Beyond that, I prioritize self-care, especially daily morning exercise. It’s not just about physical health; it’s my “me time” when everyone else is asleep, allowing me to clear my head and focus. When it comes to motivating my team, it’s all about genuine care. I try to understand what drives each individual, what’s happening in their lives, and what their career aspirations are. We’re more than just our job titles; we’re whole people with passions and goals beyond our work performance. So, I invest time in getting to know my team and ensuring they’re supported and motivated in the areas where they most need to grow.
What is your favorite quote?
Just be kind. Very simple, yet very powerful. Life is going to throw things at us, but we can choose how to respond. My hope is that I can always respond with a kind heart that supports and inspires others.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
In the next five years, I see myself collaborating with inspiring, innovative people, pushing my boundaries and driving impactful initiatives that benefit our communities. I’m especially passionate about using my platform and Hispanic heritage to create opportunities for others and shape a more inclusive and representative future for multicultural communications.
What advice would you give to anyone starting out on their career in your industry?
If I could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in communications, it would be this: be yourself. Authenticity is key. For so long, we have tried to fit into some pre-defined box, but the real magic happens when we embrace our own individuality. Our unique background, our heritage, our experiences. These are the things that make us who we are, and they’re also the things that will make your work stand out. They give you a unique perspective, a fresh way of seeing the world, and that’s invaluable in storytelling. So don’t hide those things, celebrate them! The communications landscape is desperately seeking new voices, new perspectives, and yours could be the one that makes a real difference.