By Lacie Blankenship
Tom Steenburgh, Ralph Owen Dean, Vanderbilt Owen Graduate School of Management, proudly announced that Maria Renz (MBA’96), VP/GM Commerce, Google, will deliver the keynote address at the school’s 2024 Commencement on May 10.
“Maria Renz is a distinguished alumna of Vanderbilt Business and actively contributes to our community as a member of the Alumni Board,” says Steenburgh. “We are excited to hear her insights as we celebrate the achievements of our graduating class.”
Maria Renz
Renz’s current role at Google as the Vice President and General Manager of Commerce, overseeing shopping and payments, adds another distinguished chapter to her illustrious career. Prior to joining the team at Google, Renz garnered extensive experience working at renowned companies such as Amazon, SoFi, Kraft Foods, and Hallmark Cards as well as serving on the Board of DoorDash.
Having spent nearly 2 decades working at Amazon, Renz’s career trajectory serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring business leaders. Renz began at Amazon as a Product Marketing Manager and ascended through the ranks to take on roles like Vice President of Delivery Experience, CEO of Diapers.com, an Amazon Subsidiary, and Vice President, Technical Advisor to the CEO. Renz’s career journey, leading her to top executive roles at major tech companies, underscores the limitless possibilities for graduates.
Renz graduated from Drexel University in Philadelphia with a bachelor’s degree in interior design and received a Master of Business Administration from Vanderbilt Owen Graduate School of Management.
Renz’s continued commitment to recruiting Owen students, as well as serving on the Owen Alumni Board, underscores the strong sense of community that defines the Vanderbilt Business experience, inspiring future generations of business leaders to thrive.
“It is an honor to address the Vanderbilt Business Class of 2024,” says Renz. “The supportive community and unparalleled education I received here have been instrumental in shaping my personal and professional journey.”
