Best and Brightest: Alexandra O'Neil

Alexandra O'Neil

Owner

City on the Hill Consultancy

Charleston

Age 25

As a kid, I was always finding ways to earn money and stay busy, and that entrepreneurial mindset eventually led me to start City on the Hill Consultancy while attending Bentley University. Balancing classes, internships, jobs, and client work wasn't easy, but it taught me the value of consistency, continuous learning, and building relationships. Today, I'm proud to lead a growing marketing consultancy that partners with businesses across the country. My long-term goal is to continue growing City on the Hill while helping more entrepreneurs build businesses they're proud of. I believe some of the best businesses are overlooked simply because they don't have the resources to market themselves effectively. That's why, just over a year ago, I began creating free user-generated content for deserving small businesses. Those videos have since generated more than 700,000 organic views, giving local businesses meaningful exposure at no cost. To me, giving back is using the skills I've developed to create opportunities for others and strengthen the communities they serve.

Favorite Quote and Why: "Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it." – Henry David Thoreau

Definition of a Successful Leader: A successful leader creates an environment where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to do their best work. Leadership is about earning trust, leading by example, and making sure everyone is rowing in the same direction.

Advice to 18-Year-Old Self: Say yes to more opportunities. You never know which conversation, connection, or experience will open a door that changes your life.