Stephanie Riley: Celebrating Her Impact as a Leader in Business

Celebrating Women in Business: Stephanie Riley's Inspiring Journey

Stephanie Riley, the chief marketing officer for Allen Tate | Howard Hanna, recently earned the prestigious 2025 Women in Business Award from the Charlotte Business Journal. This honor recognizes remarkable professional women who have made significant contributions to their fields and communities, and Riley is a standout example. The awards ceremony took place on March 20, 2025, at The Westin Charlotte, celebrating 25 exceptional women from the local area.

With over 20 years of experience in strategic planning and marketing, Riley joined Allen Tate in 2016, where she has since made a profound impact. President Gary Scott commended her as an “exceptional and accomplished senior marketing executive” who inspires those around her. Her leadership and vision have not only guided substantial marketing initiatives but also fostered a culture of collaboration and empowerment within her team.

The Mark of a Leader: Riley’s Strategic Contributions

Riley has seamlessly integrated her marketing expertise into the fabric of Allen Tate | Howard Hanna. She oversees a multi-million-dollar marketing budget and leads a robust team of 33 professionals in Charlotte and Asheville, driving impactful advertising campaigns. Notably, she played a crucial role in leading disaster relief efforts that raised over $200,000 for victims of Hurricane Helene. Such community-focused initiatives highlight her commitment not only as a business leader but as a responsible community member.

Innovation at Its Core: The Allen Tate Marketing Concierge

One of the hallmarks of Riley's leadership is the innovative Allen Tate Marketing Concierge program. This initiative provides customized marketing services to Realtors, empowering them to better connect with clients through tailored content and designs. By leveraging partnerships with collegiate athletics, including Carolina and Clemson Universities, she has broadened the company's marketing reach, thereby enhancing its profile in the region.

Empowering Homeowners Through Education

Riley's recent project, Homephysical.com, serves as another testament to her forward-thinking approach. This consumer-centric website helps homeowners navigate the complexities of homeownership, ultimately turning what can be a daunting process into a more manageable and informed experience. It showcases her belief in empowering individuals with knowledge so they can make the most of one of their most significant investments.

“Watching my adult children and team members discover not just new skills—but new confidence—energizes me,” she reflects. Her journey serves as motivation to others, demonstrating how leadership is built on authentic relationships and genuine encouragement.

A Legacy of Recognition: Awards and Achievements

Riley’s contributions have not gone unnoticed; she's a multiple recipient of industry awards, including the Allen Tate Chairman’s Award and the Earle Heath Servant Leadership Award. These accolades reflect her continued commitment to excellence and leadership within her field. Her ability to foster an atmosphere of collaboration stands out in an industry that often prioritizes individual achievements over team success.

Conclusion: A Call to Celebrate Women’s Leadership

Stephanie Riley's recognition as a Women in Business Award winner is more than just an accolade; it’s a call to action for others to celebrate and uplift women leaders in all sectors. Her story exemplifies the power of perseverance, innovation, and community connection. As we celebrate her accomplishments, let’s also recognize the importance of supporting and empowering women in business, ensuring that their voices and leadership continue to grow and inspire others.