Vested Interests: Caroline McMullan

Here at Vested, we often say our team is our greatest asset. Our people are smart, passionate, involved, kind, funny, interesting people, and we want to share them with you! In our new series Vested Interests, we’re spotlighting Vesties around the world, sharing what they’re reading, who they’re listening to, where they’re eating, and everything in between.

To kick us off, we sat down with Senior Marketing Strategist Caroline McMullan. She’s based in New York, has been at Vested for a little over three years, and runs Vested’s agency marketing program. Let’s get into it. 

What book are you reading? Or any recent favorites?

I’m currently reading A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith. I have been meaning to read it for years, and I can confirm it’s just as good as everyone says it is. I am a Kindle reader, just FYI.

What about newsletters, industry/work related or otherwise?

I read quite a few newsletters (mainly on Substack), but the two that come to mind are Axios Communicators by Eleanor Hawkins and A Newsletter by Alison Roman. Not a revolutionary take, but the Axios HQ writing style really is easier to follow and digest. I’m an Alison Roman stan and will consume anything she puts out, but I love how A Newsletter combines new recipes with stories and musings from Alison. 

What podcasts are you listening to?

I’m a New York Times The Daily person, which I usually listen to on my commute into the office. Las Culturistas and Giggly Squad are two of my light-hearted, funny faves that I tune into every week.

Favorite outdoor activity, workout, or hobby?

I love to play tennis! It can be tricky to play in NYC because the courts are crowded, but I make an effort to get out there a few times a month. I’m also a CorePower Yoga person – I’ve been going for years and while every class is still tough, you feel so good afterwards. 

What’s your work super power?

Juggling multiple projects at once! In my role, I’m managing our websites, social media presence, and paid advertising strategy, writing newsletters, keeping up with PR and award submissions, helping with events… really the full marketing spectrum. I love getting to have my hand in so many different things, and I learn something new every day.  

Any restaurants (or cafes, coffee shops, etc.) that you’ve been to and loved? Local favorites?

Salt and Straw for ice cream! It’s a million degrees in New York City and there’s a Salt and Straw location just a short walk from my apartment. Dangerous. 

How did you find your way to Vested?

I started my career at an advertising agency in my hometown of Atlanta, GA after graduating from Auburn University (war eagle!). I worked on a few different accounts, one being SunTrust Bank, who was navigating a merger with BB&T to become Truist Bank. It was my foray into financial marketing and advertising, which led me to take my next role in marketing at UBS when I moved to New York in 2019. Looking for a smaller, more creative environment, I joined Vested in 2022 and have loved really growing my skills here!

What’s your go-to coffee order?

My morning coffee is boring – hot drip coffee with a Splenda and a splash of half-and-half. If I’m getting an afternoon treat, it’s an iced matcha latte with almond milk paired with a stroll around Madison Square Park (which is right by the Vested office, we’re spoiled). 

Do you have any hobbies or new skills you’re learning?

Needlepoint! I have fully boarded the train and I don’t see myself getting off any time soon. I’m only three projects deep (1 coaster and 2 Christmas ornaments), but I have the bug. If you have a favorite LNS (local needlepoint shop), let me know. 

What’s your most-used emoji or Slack reaction?

This. To everything.