Field Report #1: ​​Alumni Profile

Carey Ann Campbell, Chief Executive Officer at Southern Tide

Carey Campbell, an accomplished Chief Executive Officer, currently holds the helm at Southern Tide, a national apparel company inspired by the coastal lifestyle. With a wealth of experience garnered from previous roles at both Southern Tide and Belk, Mrs. Campbell brings a dynamic skill set and a deep understanding of the retail industry that helps her lead her team with empathy.

In the bustling landscape of retail and leadership, Carey Ann Campbell stands out as a beacon of inspiration and success. With Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature/Letters, her educational background speaks volumes about her proficiency in communication, critical analysis, and creative thinking. Her career trajectory is a testament to the enduring value of a liberal arts education, coupled with a wealth of industry experience.

Mrs. Campbell, the esteemed CEO of Southern Tide, attributes much of her remarkable success and professional growth to the invaluable support of her professional network, mentors, and industry leaders. Drawing from her own experiences, Mrs. Campbell emphasizes the pivotal role that mentors have played in her career trajectory. This influence has led her to become a dedicated mentor herself, paying forward the guidance and wisdom she has received.

A firm believer in the mantra “Nothing’s too big!”, Carey Ann Campbell encourages individuals to share their aspirations openly with their network. She believes that by articulating one’s goals, whether they seem grand or ambitious, one can harness the collective power of their network to achieve these objectives. This philosophy underscores Mrs. Campbell’s approach to both her personal and professional life, where open communication and collaboration have been instrumental in her success.

Known for her natural curiosity and insatiable appetite for learning, Mrs. Campbell embarked on the path to becoming the CEO of Southern Tide with determination and a hunger for growth. Her relentless pursuit of knowledge and willingness to seek guidance from mentors have been central to her journey to the top of the corporate ladder.

In George Anders’ book “You Can Do Anything,” he proposes that “your greatest allies [are] thousands of alumni from your college who can assist you at each stage of your journey.” In our digitally connected world, regardless of location, we are closer than ever to “a network of career allies.” In my discussion with Mrs. Campbell, I discovered that her resourcefulness played a pivotal role in shaping her career. With her innate curiosity and eagerness for continuous learning, she cultivated relationships with mentors and embraced “a willingness to seek assistance.” She attributes her achievements to the mentors who guided her through various stages of her professional endeavors. As Anders outlines in his book, “You simply need to take the initiative and become comfortable with seeking out new connections.” My conversation with Mrs. Campbell affirmed the truth in this statement!

Her advice to young professionals aspiring to leadership roles is simple yet profound: “Share those goals because people want to help you get there.” This guidance reflects her belief in the power of mentorship and the supportive nature of professional networks. By vocalizing ambitions and seeking guidance, individuals can tap into a wealth of knowledge and experience that can propel them towards their desired outcomes.

In her role as CEO, Carey Ann Campbell not only leads with strategic vision but also embodies the essence of an English major. Her passion for language and storytelling, honed during her studies, continues to drive success in unexpected ways. From crafting compelling narratives for the brand to fostering a culture of creativity and innovation, Mrs. Campbell’s background in English has been a guiding force in her leadership style.

Carey Ann Campbell’s journey from an English student at the College of Charleston to a visionary CEO is a testament to the enduring value of an English education. Her story showcases how the skills cultivated through the study of literature—such as critical thinking, communication, and creativity—can serve as a strong foundation for success in the business world and beyond. Mrs. Campbell’s career trajectory exemplifies the transformative power of mentorship, the importance of sharing goals, and the lasting impact of a passion for lifelong learning.

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Mrs. Campbell serves as