With over 20 years of experience driving growth for global consumer packaged goods companies, Katie Waller is known for successfully scaling brands by leading cross-functional enterprise strategies and synergizing diverse, engaged talent. 

Under Waller’s senior leadership, HARIBO of America, Inc. and Mars Wrigley Confectionery Company experienced evolved company culture, improved strategic positioning, and accelerated sustainable revenue growth for Eclipse Gum, 5 Gum, and other innovative global brands.

Recognized for her industry leadership through such accolades as HARIBO Award’s Growth Award, an induction into Mars Tie & Scarf Club, two Effie Awards, two Webby nominations, a Reggie Award, and two Mars Marketing Hero Awards, Waller has a stellar track record of developing people and results.

Most recently, as Senior Vice President of Sales and Head of Sales at HARIBO, Waller built the culture and led numerous teams while surpassing performance targets. She expanded the scope of sales initiatives and increased profitability for big brands such as Walmart and Amazon. Prior, Waller led strategic planning and rebuilt marketing and commercialization teams to improve talent and bolster growth potential as the VP of Marketing.

While at Mars Wrigley, Waller over-delivered results for the $1.3 billion business, which led to $100M annual retail sales growth. She oversaw a $300M trade budget and a 500-person salesforce. Waller also played a significant role in the business’s success through revenue and people as she nurtured teams and individual talent.

Waller intentionally builds thriving cultures and aims to support teams with a holistic approach that values the whole person. Waller is passionate about people succeeding in inclusive spaces and seeks opportunities to empower and elevate female leaders.  

As an active member of Next Up’s Chicago Chapter and Mentoring Program, Waller strives to eliminate barriers for women in the workplace and champions DEI and belonging initiatives while transforming corporate business cultures. She also volunteers at Schoolcraft Tourism, helping implement marketing strategies and expand the business’ reach.

Waller’s leadership is respected by many due to her robust experiences and academic achievements–including an MBA from Northwestern University and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Michigan. Her work is characterized by a sustainable approach that yields enduring results, and her wisdom is widely acknowledged and highly sought after.