Today we’d like to introduce you to Kena Fuller.
Kena, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
The decision to start my own company developed from a desire to work with people.
Stemming from a not-so-great past employment experience, I stepped out on faith knowing I wanted to build something great, phenomenal even, a place where people would be happy to work, a company known for going the extra mile, providing exceptional service to its clients and colleagues.
In the beginning, I didn’t know exactly what that meant or what it would look like, but I was confident in my intuition and ability to pursue my passion; helping others along the way.
You know how people say ‘if you want something done right…’ it was those words that kept playing in my head.
My thought was, if I truly wanted to make a difference it would require that I build a company based upon a foundation of helping others and doing good work, developing business with good people.
Looking back at my younger self, I wouldn’t have thought I would own and operate a company; let alone become a business developer. But, as so many entrepreneurs know, it is often the passion and deep interest in pursuing a thing that drives your why.
When I set out to pursue my passion I knew there was a need and that I could fill it. From this, I decided to create a catalog of services supporting each aspect of my company; small business development and higher education management. I had no idea of what it would grow into.
I started this “thing”, this company I once couldn’t define, in 2010. Because of self-belief and vision, because I pursued my dream, my company has had the opportunity to help more than 30 entrepreneur-owned and operated business and universities with their business development.
Considering that I didn’t know what any of this could become, some eight years back, I am happy to say that I am beyond pleased with the results thus far; eager to continue to build upon good work and effort. The way I choose to see it, the best is yet to come!
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I would not say it has been easy, but absolutely worthwhile. There are certainly many bumps along the road, there will always be, but I have learned to appreciate the obstacles and trust the process. I am a firm believer in positivity. Choosing to seek out the opportunity in each lesson gives me the drive I need to stay the course. Purpose has great value to an entrepreneur.
Please tell us about Fuller Management Corporation.
Fuller Management is a small business based in Long Beach, CA. We specialize in all things business development.
As for what we’re known for, I always like to say “eye contact and handshakes”. As a company, we offer outreach and recruitment services, strategic planning, performance coaching, tailored training, and business writing/branding services to our clients.
Business development requires an all of the above ideology. a strategy, if you will. I firmly believe no one person can accomplish everything all their own.
It takes people, it requires relationships. For me, and for my company, business development translates to people. Taking the necessary time to ensure needs are met and goals are obtained from all perspectives; it’s what we do very well.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
This is a funny question, mainly because I have an answer.
When I was a kid, my family would travel every summer. Being that I was a kid who loved to pretend, I would always pack a separate suitcase filled with stuffed animals.
From the moment we arrived at our family home, I’d unpack my bags and get right to imaginative playtime. And, for me, this meant board meetings, serious conversations, and running a business… from my grandmother’s dining room table.
I would seat each bear at the table, pretending to be in an oh-so serious meeting, running the scene, making decisions and such. I’d hire some bears and others wouldn’t make the cut, but this was very standard in the “bear business”. My mother and I have reflected on this many times over the years. I laugh to myself whenever this thought crosses my mind. Particularly every time I take a business meeting in my office conference room. It always takes me back to my summers, it really is such a great memory!
Contact Info:
- Address: 100 Oceangate, Suite 1200
Long Beach, CA 90802 - Website: FullerPros.com
- Phone: 562-628-5575
- Email: info@fullerpros.com
- Instagram: @kena_simone
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
