#1 - Ross Cully (Harvest Group)

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart→ Learn more about Cushman & Wakefield Sage PartnersWhat does it look like to build a business that scales without losing its soul?In this episode of NWA Founders, we sit down with Ross Cully, founder and CEO of Harvest Group, a 300-person commerce agency serving brands at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Amazon. From a kitchen table in Fayetteville to a fast-growing Rogers-based firm, Ross shares his journey of bootstrapping a values-led company that’s rewriting the playbook for success in the retail and media world. With roots in Springfield, Missouri, and a formative start at Procter & Gamble, Ross explains how his early career experiences laid the foundation for Harvest Group’s unique culture, one grounded in humility, integrity, and excellence. SummaryRoss shares how Procter & Gamble shaped his view of consumer packaged goods and why small and midsize brands became his passion. His decision to co-found Harvest Group wasn’t driven by a lifelong dream of entrepreneurship but by a desire to build a company where values and excellence could coexist.He discusses the scaling years in detail, how client word-of-mouth fueled growth, how the team resisted short-term thinking in favor of long-term integrity, and how building a people-first culture helped attract top-tier talent. At every stage, Harvest Group stayed focused on delivering high service levels and staying aligned with their mission.As Ross reflects on leading through hyper-growth, the evolving demands of his role, and the leadership investments required to scale, one thing is clear: Harvest Group’s success isn’t an accident, it’s the result of intentional leadership, deep-rooted values, and a commitment to serving both clients and employees well.Highlights00:00 – Founding the principles of Harvest Group15:00 – What Harvest Group does and winning at Walmart30:00 – Scaling challenges45:00 – Managing growth60:00 – Ross’s leadership philosophy75:00 – Success defined90:00 – Harvest Group's role in Northwest ArkansasNick's 3 Key TakeawaysValues shape vision – Harvest Group's success stems from a clear set of values that haven't wavered, even in the face of growth, adversity, or financial pressure.People are the strategy – From employees to clients, Ross built his company around relational depth, cultural health, and long-term investment in leadership.Stay purpose driven – Whether turning down clients who don’t align with company values or evolving his role as CEO, Ross shows that purpose is the most sustainable growth strategy.Follow us on LinkedIn NWA FoundersFollow us on Instagram @NWAFoundersFollow us on YouTube NWA FoundersFor guest suggestions or inquiries [email protected] Founders is a voice for Founders, Owners, and Builders driving growth in Northwest Arkansas, and is hosted by Cameron Clark and Nick Beyer.Full show notes, the transcript and every chapter: nwafounders.com/episodes/ross-cully-harvest-group/More on Harvest Group: nwafounders.com/guests/ross-cully-harvest-group/Every episode, searchable: nwafounders.com