Renee Miller has built Pacific Palisades-based The Miller Group into an award-winning digital branding and advertising agency. She has recently worked with clients such as Gelson’s Markets, the Skirball Center, Dunn Edwards Corp. and Pocky. The agency specializes in brand revitalization, video production, strategy, research, social media, new product launches and lead generation.

Miller tells clients that “every brand has a story, and it’s our job to tell those stories in a way that is compelling, convincing, and above all, connective.”

Miller spoke with the Business Journal about her 34-year career and being a leader in her industry.

What made you decide to go into the industry you’re in now? What have you learned about it?

I started my career as a journalist and ended up running an advertising/branding/marketing agency for 34 years. Setting clear and meaningful goals and remaining fearless, focused and tenacious is the way to go. Most important is giving more than is expected.

What is the number one piece of advice you’d give to women who want to start or operate their own businesses?

Do your research. Make sure there’s a need for your product or service. The most successful products and services come from meeting an unfulfilled need, like Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx.

What have you done this past year to ensure that your business is a leader in its industry?

I enrolled in the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program and completed the program recently. I’m also WBENC certified and have been participating in their business growth opportunities.

What steps do you take to build community and a positive work culture within your business?

We’re a virtual company, so we meet regularly on Zoom, collaborate often and listen to each other. Being respectful of everyone’s time, opinions and values is paramount to maintaining a spirit of excellence.

What aspects of operating your business do you find the most challenging? Conversely, which aspects have been the most rewarding?

The biggest challenges are those beyond our control – the pandemic, the “Great Recession of 2008,” high interest rates, and fierce competition from AI. The most rewarding aspects are watching employees, business partners and clients grow and excel in their careers.

Has being a woman in your industry provided you with a different or unique perspective over the years?

Yes, absolutely. It has been an eye-opening experience. In some ways, we’ve made significant strides as women in business. And in others, we’re still operating in the dark ages.

Who has inspired you throughout your business journey, and what is the most important thing you’ve learned from them? 

I’m inspired by business owners who believe in making a difference, women like Tiffany Yu, an entrepreneur and disability rights advocate who founded Diversability, a social enterprise advocating equality for people with disabilities.

What’s next for you and your company?

We’re working on a branding and growth initiative, which we look forward to sharing soon. On a personal note, I’m deeply committed to sustainability and regenerative initiatives.