Inside Business 2022 Women in Business: Lisa Renz, BNI US national director and Regent University adjunct professor

Job title: National director, BNI US, and adjunct professor, Regent University.

At work: As the BNI (Business Network International) US national director, I manage the operations for U.S. franchises. As part of the world’s largest referral networking organization, I equip franchisees to assist our members in developing professional relationships that generate revenue, acquire clients and get needed resources to thrive. Additionally, I help develop and support training initiatives. I lead the BNI US with a team of four other women dedicated to the success of our members and directors. As an adjunct professor at Regent University in the School of Business and Leadership, I facilitate courses in its Master of Business Administration and Doctor of Strategic Leadership programs. These roles help me fulfill a personal mission to help build strong communities through entrepreneurship.

Volunteer activities: As a lifelong resident of Virginia Beach, I have participated in several volunteer activities, including Compassion Advocacy Network, Habesha Momma, Rise Against Hunger, American Red Cross blood drives, Hospice Alliance of Hampton Roads, Lions Club and Operation Homefront. I participated in two initiatives when Typhoon Yolanda devastated the Philippines in 2013. One raised over $200,000 for the victims. The other was supported by members of BNI in Southeastern Virginia and provided school supplies and shoes for 1,000 children in my mother’s hometown. I have also mentored young professionals in developing the skills necessary to be successful in business. I served on the Entrepreneurship and Business Academy advisory committee at Kempsville High School. I have also served as an adviser for Regent University’s Students in Free Enterprise team.

Home and family: I have lived in Virginia Beach my entire life. I have been with my husband, Steve, for almost 34 years. We have two daughters, Leah and Rachel; a son-in-law, Nick; and two grandchildren, Steven and Lynne.

Motivating factors: Through BNI, I have experienced countless times when others gave their time, resources and expertise to help another business owner get what they needed to stay in business and thrive. It is inspiring to see competitors sharing knowledge and giving the advice to help one another. Through collaboration and strong networks, I have participated in and witnessed many solopreneurs expand to having employees or multiple locations. Whether teaching students or working with business professionals, seeing how people use their talents to make a positive impact is powerful. I like creating opportunities for others to succeed.

Advice for women in business: Be confident. Confidence comes when you realize you will always succeed in life because every opportunity gives you a chance to succeed, learn or both.

The one thing I would change about Hampton Roads: I wish Hampton Roads had more easily accessible kayak launches.

Professional goal in five years: Achieve 30% growth in membership in BNI US.

Downtime: I love spending time with my family. I am happiest when kayak fishing with my husband at all the great locations in Hampton Roads. I like playing video games with friends in the U.S. and abroad. When we travel, I like to find great places to snorkel. I enjoy walking my dog daily.

What really gets under my skin: People who try to get in the way of other people’s success.