At Advantive, we believe growth is most meaningful when it comes from within. Our people are at the heart of that growth, bringing passion, perseverance, and authenticity to their work every day. We’re proud to share the journeys of four teammates whose careers reflect the opportunities that come with being part of a fast-paced, purpose-driven organization.
Kristen Fullam – Chief of Staff
From Distribution One to Advantive
Kristen’s journey began at Distribution One, where she started as a receptionist before advancing into leadership roles following Advantive’s acquisition. Mentorship and challenge from leaders like Phil Burroughs and Kevin Boyce gave her the space to stretch and grow, helping her develop the clarity, curiosity, and prioritization skills that define her leadership style today.
Leading with Clarity and Purpose
Now as Chief of Staff, Kristen partners with the executive team to align priorities and ensure strategic initiatives move forward with focus and impact. For her, Advantive has been a place to lead through change, embrace complexity, and build a career defined by growth and collaboration.
“Advantive is a place where you can stretch, grow, and truly make a difference. If you enjoy solving complex problems and collaborating with passionate people, there’s a lot of opportunity here.” – Kristen Fullam
Rusty Bellar – Manager, Customer Success
Four Decades in Manufacturing
With nearly four decades in manufacturing, Rusty thought his time for career growth had passed until he joined Advantive. Starting at VIA Information Tools in 2000, Rusty built his expertise in MES before becoming part of Advantive in 2022.
Finding New Opportunities at Advantive
Since then, he’s been promoted twice and now leads a team of Customer Success Managers. One highlight was co-leading a “Tiger Team” with Kristen Fullam to tackle complex data challenges, which he calls some of the most rewarding teamwork of his career.
“At over 60, I thought my career growth had passed. I couldn’t have been more wrong. Advantive truly invests in people at every stage of their career.” – Rusty Bellar
Grace Barton – Marketing Specialist
From Content Writer to Marketing Specialist
Grace’s Advantive story began at PQ Systems, where she worked as a content writer while completing her graduate certificate in business analytics. That early role gave her insight into the quality space and became a launchpad for growth in marketing.
Expanding Skills & Contributions
Today, she collaborates across acquired businesses, creates impactful go-to-market materials, and drives tailored campaigns alongside product marketing managers. Mentorship from leaders like Amanda Lance has helped her move from tactical execution to more strategic, visible contributions.
“There’s room to take ownership and contribute meaningfully, even early in your career. The diversity of our portfolio keeps the work engaging and full of opportunity.” – Grace Barton
Eddie Diaz – Account Executive
Starting Fresh out of College
Fresh out of the University of South Florida, Eddie joined Advantive as a Business Development Representative (BDR). With support from his managers and guidance from leaders across the business, he thrived as the BDR team scaled its go-to-market motion.
Growing into an Account Executive
Investments in learning and development – from structured courses to trade show experience – prepared him for his next step. When the Account Executive role opened, Eddie was ready. Today, he’s proof of how quickly talent can grow when matched with opportunity and support.
“Advantive hires people for their strengths, not just to fill a role. You’re empowered to bring ideas, collaborate openly, and grow into the next stage of your career.” – Eddie Diaz
A Culture of Growth
Kristen, Rusty, Grace, and Eddie represent just a few of the many stories inside Advantive. Their paths are different, but the themes are the same: perseverance, humility, collaboration, and the chance to grow into something greater. At Advantive, careers progress with purpose, opening doors to new opportunities and inspiring others along the way.