In a world where branding often chases attention, Vicky Free Sistrunk has built a career commanding it—with intention.

A globally recognized brand and marketing executive, Sistrunk has spent more than 25 years shaping some of the most influential brands in the world. But what separates her from the pack isn’t just scale—it’s substance. Her work doesn’t just drive revenue; it drives meaning.

From global corporations to community transformation, her career reflects a rare balance: corporate excellence paired with purpose-driven impact.

From Global Brands to Cultural Influence

Sistrunk’s résumé reads like a blueprint for brand dominance.

She has led transformative marketing strategies for powerhouse organizations including McDonald’s, The Walt Disney Company, adidas, ViacomBET Networks, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

At each stop, her work went beyond campaigns. She helped shape how brands show up in culture—how they speak, how they connect, and how they endure.

This is the difference between marketing and mastery: building something people don’t just see—but believe in.

Leading with Purpose at Scale

Today, Sistrunk brings that same strategic firepower to mission-driven work.

As Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Purpose Built Communities, she leads national brand strategy for an organization focused on transforming neighborhoods affected by concentrated poverty.

Her role isn’t just about visibility—it’s about voice.

She is helping elevate a resident-centered model that proves something powerful: when strategy meets community, transformation becomes sustainable.

Entrepreneurship Meets Expertise

Beyond the boardroom, Sistrunk is also the founder of Free Your Mind Strategies, LLC, a boutique advisory firm designed to help organizations unlock growth through brand clarity and thought leadership.

This is where her experience turns into access.

Through her firm, she works directly with leaders and organizations looking to sharpen their positioning, expand their influence, and move with intention in a crowded marketplace.

A Seat at the Table—and Building More Seats

Sistrunk’s influence extends into governance and leadership development.

She serves on the corporate board of VIZIO and contributes her expertise to organizations like T.A.S.T.E. (Take A Step To Elevate), founded by Anthony Hamilton.

Her past board service includes organizations such as Goodwill Industries and the Urban League of Charlotte & the Carolinas—further evidence of her commitment to both economic mobility and community empowerment.

But perhaps her most important role is one that doesn’t come with a title: mentor.

She is actively investing in the next generation of leaders—ensuring that access, insight, and opportunity don’t stop with her.

Rooted in South Carolina, Built for the World

A proud South Carolina native, Sistrunk’s journey began with a degree in mass communications from the University of South Carolina and expanded through an Executive MBA from the Kellogg School of Management.

She further sharpened her leadership through executive education at some of the nation’s top institutions, including Harvard University, Stanford University, and UCLA.

Today, she resides in Irmo with her husband, Christopher Sistrunk, Ph.D.—a reminder that even global impact can stay grounded in community.

The Bigger Story

Vicky Free Sistrunk’s career isn’t just about marketing.

It’s about positioning—with purpose.

It’s about understanding that the most powerful brands don’t just sell products—they shape conversations, shift narratives, and create pathways for others to follow.

And in a time where authenticity is currency, her work stands as proof that you don’t have to choose between influence and impact.

You can build both.