We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kiara Aguillon. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kiara below.
Alright, Kiara thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What do you think it takes to be successful?
Success, for me, has always been about building genuine relationships and continuously pushing myself to learn and grow.
From my early days in ecommerce at StackCommerce to my current role in influencer partnerships, I’ve realized success isn’t just about hitting metrics—it’s about how you approach challenges and connect with people.
Take my journey in influencer marketing, for example. When I started at Digital Media Management, I wasn’t just managing campaigns for Netflix or HBO. I was focused on discovering creators who truly aligned with brand values. It wasn’t about getting the biggest names, but finding the right voices that could authentically tell a story.
I think success comes down to three key things:
First, stay curious. I’ve always been proactive about understanding emerging trends across platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. That curiosity has let me stay ahead of the curve and provide real strategic value to brands.
Second, build relationships. Whether it’s with junior team members I’m mentoring or creators I’m partnering with, I believe in fostering connections that go beyond transactional interactions. At We Are Social, I’m not just managing a $4 million talent budget—I’m building long-term partnerships.
Lastly, be tenacious. Success isn’t a solo journey. It’s about creating environments where everyone can contribute, grow, and ultimately thrive together. I’ve seen this firsthand in how I approach team leadership, always trying to “see the good in others” and create opportunities for everyone to shine and not giving up. Sometimes you have to pivot, sometimes you have to practice and sometimes you just have to ask for help. The key is to not give up.
My advisory work with mental health non-profits has also shaped my perspective. It’s reminded me that success isn’t just professional—it’s about making a meaningful impact and lifting others up along the way.
Kiara, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am an innovative business leader with a dynamic background in cross-functional brand marketing, specializing in digital media, ecommerce, and influencer partnerships.
My journey began at Portland State University, where I studied Communications and Media Studies, laying the foundation for my future in digital marketing.
Starting my career in ecommerce, I quickly developed a talent for managing complex brand accounts and optimizing ecommerce performance. She managed over 100 brand accounts, demonstrating her strategic acumen by overseeing multi-platform partnerships and driving significant partner revenue.
My transistion into influencer marketing came naturally through roles at The MRKT and Digital Media Management, where I honed her skills in managing high-profile entertainment clients and public figures like Netflix, HBO, and Sony Studios. By cultivating relationships with creators and celebrities, she discovered her passion for building authentic brand narratives through strategic partnerships.
Most recently, I was managing around $4 million in annual talent budget, developing global marketing campaigns for brands like Adidas and YouTube. My expertise has been recognized industry-wide, including features as a creator economy expert at VidCon, USC, and Syracuse University, and two Shorty Award nominations.
Beyond her professional achievements, I am bilingual in English and Spanish and serves on advisory boards for two mental health non-profits, reflecting her commitment to social impact and diverse representation in marketing. I continue to grow and discover my talents.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
The goal to do good and have fun! We lose sight of that and the important relationships we build along the way. Never forget to come back to your roots.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
I wish I would have played with more tech tools that help someone in a field such as mine. Things as simple as Canva and platforms like Aspire IQ and CapCut are worth learning.
