Best and Brightest: Kate Weatherly

Kate Weatherly

Account Executive

Adams Outdoor Advertising

Charleston

Age 29

Looking back, I can clearly see that God had a much different plan for my life than the one I had mapped out for myself. After earning my degree in nutrition and dietetics, I planned to become a registered dietitian. Instead, the uncertainty of 2020 opened doors I never expected. I stepped into medical sales and quickly discovered that what energized me most wasn't selling — it was connecting with people, understanding their stories, and helping solve meaningful challenges. That passion eventually led me to outdoor advertising, where I found a career that perfectly blends strategy, creativity, and service. Today, I serve as an account executive with Adams Outdoor Advertising in Charleston, where I've had the privilege of partnering with everyone from local startups and nonprofits to nationally recognized brands. One of the greatest honors of my career has been being recognized as one of the outdoor advertising industry's Future Leaders: Top 10 Under 40, a recognition that reinforced my passion for serving both clients and my community. Outside of work, you'll usually find me on a tennis court competing, teaching lessons, or mentoring players. Long-term, I hope to continue growing as a leader in Charleston while building a career centered on helping others. To me, giving back means leaving my community better than I found it — using the gifts God has given me to invest in others, support organizations that strengthen our community, and encourage people to reach their full potential both on and off the court.

Favorite Quote and Why: "Never, never, never, give in!" – Winston Churchill. I love this quote because it reminds me that perseverance is one of the most powerful forces in life. One of my greatest strengths is my determination to keep moving forward, no matter what.

Definition of a Successful Leader: To me, a successful leader is someone who genuinely cares about people. They treat everyone with the same respect, regardless of title or position, and have the courage to make honorable decisions — even when they aren't the popular ones. A successful leader is a human first — someone who recognizes the importance of human dignity, human creativity, and the ups and downs we all experience in life. They lead with resilience, confidence, and enthusiasm because those qualities inspire others to believe in themselves. A successful leader isn't someone who has all the answers — it's someone who sets the example and helps the people around them become the best version of themselves.

Advice to 18-Year-Old Self: Always trust your gut.