Carole Smith

Carole Smit (formerly Carole Neal) is an award-winning marketing and business strategy leader with a proven track record of driving growth, transforming company culture, and creating meaningful impact across Fortune 500 brands, national nonprofits, and fast-growing startups. As the Global Marketing Director at Aquent, Carole leads the strategic direction for brand, marketing, and demand generation across Aquent’s portfolio, including Aquent Talent and Aquent Studios.

A dynamic, data-driven executive with a passion for digital transformation, DEIB, and inclusive storytelling, Carole brings deep expertise in omni-channel marketing, ABM strategy, executive communications, and customer engagement. She has launched award-winning content such as the Aquent Talent Insights Report and Salary Guide, which explore the future of work, AI, and workforce trends—helping to elevate brand awareness and drive significant revenue growth.

Carole is not only a marketing strategist but also a culture builder, having led transformative internal programs including employee resource groups (ERGs), education initiatives, and charitable campaigns that raised over $200,000. Her leadership bridges brand impact with organizational purpose—making her a compelling voice for HR professionals seeking to align employer brand, employee experience, and people strategy.

A frequent speaker on topics like AI, social media, inclusive leadership, and board service, Carole has served on boards such as UCLA’s Academic Advancement Program and Green Dot Public Schools, and currently sits on the 2025 ASA IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Advocacy) Group Council and the 50/50 Women on Boards Strategic Council.

Her background includes roles at Verizon and other global organizations, where she combined creativity and strategic insight to launch new products, build brand equity, and connect authentically with diverse audiences.

For HR and People Leaders looking to elevate their employer brand, embrace data-informed talent strategies, and drive impact through inclusive marketing and communication, Carole brings fresh, future-ready insight backed by real-world results.