How I Got Here – Leon R. Ferma

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Renn R. Ferma, CMP, stands at the forefront of modern marketing as a purpose-driven project manager who masterfully combines strategic storytelling, digital innovation, and brand leadership. With an impressive track record of managing cross-functional teams and developing compelling brand experiences, she has made significant contributions across nonprofit, education, and corporate sectors. Her unique ability to translate data into meaningful narratives has established her as a sought-after professional in the marketing world.

Currently serving as Project Manager at ntegrity, a Melbourne-based B Corp agency, Renn leads digital campaigns that help social impact organizations forge deeper connections with their audiences. “Marketing at its core is about creating authentic connections,” Renn shares. “At ntegrity, we don’t just build campaigns – we craft stories that drive real change.” Her work exemplifies the perfect balance between creative vision and measurable results, making her a standout leader in purpose-driven marketing.

Renn’s professional journey showcases her versatility and commitment to excellence. From steering digital initiatives at ntegrity to leading account strategies at Labrador Asia, she has consistently demonstrated her ability to deliver impactful results. Her tenure at Mayarie Studio honed her global campaign expertise, while her work in academic institutions like the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA showcased her talent for strategic enrollment marketing.

Beyond her professional achievements, Renn’s academic credentials are equally impressive. As a Presidential Loyalty Awardee and current MBA candidate, she combines practical experience with theoretical knowledge. Her participation in the Conference on Open Innovation in the Public Sector further demonstrates her commitment to driving meaningful change through marketing innovation. What truly sets Renn apart is her unique ability to blend analytical rigor with emotional intelligence – a combination that makes her both an effective strategist and an inspiring leader.

Her SMI Journey

When asked about her introduction to SMI International, Renn recalls: “A mentor in marketing first brought SMI to my attention during a career crossroads. They emphasized how an internationally recognized certification could validate my experience while opening new doors.” This recommendation came at a pivotal moment as Renn was expanding her work with global clients and needed credentials that would resonate across borders.

For Renn, the decision to pursue SMI certification was strategic. “In today’s competitive landscape, having third-party validation of your skills isn’t just helpful – it’s essential,” she explains. “SMI’s reputation for rigor and their global network made them the clear choice when I wanted to take my professional credibility to the next level.”

The Transformative Impact of SMI Certification

How has being a part of SMI shaped or supported your career growth? What kind of doors or opportunities have opened for you since joining?

“Since earning the CMP postnominal, I’ve experienced a clear uptick in job interview invitations and requests to connect from LinkedIn. In fact, a few employers specifically asked about the certification during the interview process, and it was a great opportunity to share the same. I truly believe the CMP added credibility to my profile and gave me that extra edge in a competitive job market. It’s helped me stand out, and I’m proud of the recognition it brings.”

Have you been able to build new connections or networks through SMI? In what ways has the SMI community helped you stay sharp and inspired?

“While I haven’t had the chance to fully engage with the SMI community just yet, I’m eager to dive in. I’m really looking forward to connecting with like-minded professionals, and I know that SMI offers a great platform for networking and continuous learning. Confident it will play a key role in expanding my network and keeping me inspired as I grow further in my career.”

How has the certification helped your career?

“Absolutely. I applied for the CMP certification while actively searching for new opportunities, and I can say without exaggeration that it made a significant difference. Once I added the CMP postnominal alongside my CHRA (Certified Human Resource Associate), I saw a noticeable increase in interview invitations, so much so that I had to turn some down due to overlapping schedules. The certification not only broadened my opportunities but also helped open doors I hadn’t imagined were within reach.”