Ana Ruelas
Ana Ruelas is a the Founder and Managing Partner of The Agency Austin, a premier real estate brand recognized globally for luxury, innovation, and market leadership. Under her guidance, The Agency Austin has grown into one of the most followed real estate brokerages in the world, leveraging cutting-edge technology and marketing strategies to help clients achieve their property goals. Prior to founding the company, Ana held senior roles at global corporations including PepsiCo and Lenovo, where she honed her expertise in business operations, logistics, and human resources. Her extensive experience as a real estate investor and corporate executive has shaped her visionary approach to business, rooted in collaboration and strategic innovation. A long-time Austin resident, Ana is also a co-owner of Austin Woman Magazine and an active investor in diverse industries ranging from healthcare devices and fintech to community sports management and CPG ventures. She has dedicated over a decade to building a portfolio of residential properties and supporting creative and forward-thinking companies.
In addition to her professional pursuits, Ana is a published author, keynote speaker, and advocate for leadership with empathy, encouraging women and communities to harness the power of compassion as a driver of personal and professional growth. Ana is deeply committed to philanthropy, serving on multiple boards and supporting causes that empower women, children, literacy, education, and the arts. She has volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, contributed to the Texas Book Festival, and championed initiatives that create meaningful opportunities for future generations. Beyond her professional and charitable work, Ana enjoys reading, writing, traveling, and spending quality time with her family, balancing a dynamic career with personal passions that enrich both her community and her life. She is a
• Certified in Communications
• Florida Atlantic University - B.B.A.
• Austin Woman Change Maker 2025
• Austin Woman Change Makers 2024
• COLLECTIVE WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP
• ABUNDANCE COLLECTIVE
• L500 (LATINA 500)
• KINDRED
• HABITAT FOR HUMANITY (WOMEN BUILD 10X10)
• THE TEXAS BOOK FESTIVAL
• THE AUSTIN SYMPHONY
• LATINITAS
• CON MI MADRE
• WONDERS AND WORRIES
• REACH (Reading Enhances All Children)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of discipline, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to my values. I’ve learned to think long-term, to stay focused during uncertainty, and to do the quiet, unglamorous work that builds trust and momentum over time. Equally important has been my willingness to lead with empathy while still holding high standards—for myself and for those around me. I’ve never believed in shortcuts; I believe in alignment, consistency, and surrounding myself with people who challenge me to grow.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I received was to make decisions based on values, not fear. When you lead from fear, you compromise too much of yourself; when you lead from values, even the hard decisions bring clarity and peace. I was also taught to step into the person and the role you aspire to become—carry yourself as if you already belong there. If you want to be a vice president, dress the part, speak the part, think strategically, and surround yourself with people who already hold that position. Proximity matters. And just as important: don’t be afraid to ask. Opportunities often come not from waiting to be chosen, but from having the confidence to raise your hand. That combination—values-driven decisions, intentional presence, and the courage to ask—has guided every transition in my career.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I often give women is to know your worth early, and don’t wait for permission to use your voice. Learn the business deeply—financials, operations, and strategy—not just the surface-level skills. Be kind, but don’t confuse kindness with a lack of boundaries. And remember that confidence is built through preparation and experience, not perfection. You don’t have to have it all figured out; you just have to be willing to learn, ask questions, and keep going.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges is navigating rapid change—technology, market shifts, and evolving consumer expectations—while maintaining trust and human connection. At the same time, that’s also the greatest opportunity. Leaders who can combine strategic thinking with emotional intelligence, adaptability, and integrity will stand out. The future belongs to those who can build strong cultures, communicate clearly, and lead people—not just transactions or numbers.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values for me are integrity, service, accountability, authenticity and compassion. These guide everything I do. I value honesty, even when it’s uncomfortable, and I believe leadership carries a responsibility to uplift others. Family, faith, and community ground me, and I strive to build a life and career that reflect consistency between who I am at work and who I am at home. Success, to me, is not just what you build—but how you treat people along the way.