JULIE BARRON
Atlanta,GA
Summary
Results-driven business leader prepared for role with robust history of steering companies toward success and fostering culture of excellence. Known for collaborative leadership approach that aligns teams with organizational objectives and drives performance. Adept at navigating complex challenges, fostering innovation, and ensuring adaptability to evolving market conditions, with focus on strategic planning and operational excellence.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
Work History
CEO & President
Simply Protein for Pets
02.2020 - 07.2025
- - Founded and scaled the U.S.-based company to support the Waggin’ Train Brand.
- - Built foundational systems for operations, sales, finance, and HR.
- - Negotiated and implemented vendor partnerships (ERP, logistics, warehousing, IT).
- - Repositioned the brand as a category leader in protein-based pet treats.
- - Delivered profitable growth through operational efficiencies and margin improvement.
- - Fostered a high-performing, innovative, and collaborative culture.
CEO & President
Solid Gold Pet
11.2018 - 02.2020
- - Increased international sales and redefined brand messaging for growth.
- - Optimized product portfolio for top-line acceleration and brand equity.
- - Successfully led company through a strategic sale at 22x EBITDA.
Vice President of Sales
11.2013 - 11.2018
- - Partnered with VMG Equity Partners during the acquisition diligence process.
- - Managed national sales organization and set revenue targets.
- - Collaborated cross-functionally on product launches and customer-specific programs.
VP, National Accounts
Waggin’ Train Brands
05.2007 - 12.2011
- - Led strategic growth and product launches with a CAGR of 26.3%.
- - Key contributor to brand’s acquisition by Nestlé Purina in 2010.
National Sales Manager / East Division Sales Manager
UltraPet Company
06.2002 - 05.2007
- - Led regional teams and grew national account sales across PETCO, Kroger, and others.
- - Managed sales budgets and implemented high-impact customer programs.
Business Manager
Advantage Sales & Marketing
06.2001 - 06.2002
- - Oversaw dairy/frozen categories for Kroger and SuperValu.
- - Developed category reviews and growth plans with national manufacturers.
Business Manager
Marketing Specialists
04.1998 - 06.2001
- - Managed Tropicana and other major brands across multiple Southeast states.
Regional Category Manager / Customer Category Manager (I–III) / Key Sales Representative
Kraft Foods
01.1991 - 01.1998
- - Held various leadership roles in account management, category development, and sales strategy.
- - Drove major growth initiatives with Publix, Winn Dixie, and other major grocery accounts.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Business & Psychology
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GeorgiaSkills
- Strategic Planning P&L Management M&A & Exit Strategy Brand Repositioning Product Innovation Operational Optimization Private Equity Global Market Expansion ERP & Supply Chain Systems Team Leadership
TRANSFORMATIONAL CPG EXECUTIVE | CEO | GROWTH & BRAND STRATEGIST
Accomplished leader with over 30 years of experience in the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) industry, specializing in high-growth brands, operational turnarounds, and strategic exits. Demonstrated success in scaling pet and specialty food brands, leading private-equity backed businesses, and building passionate, high-performance teams. Known for innovation, bottom-line focus, and delivering investor value through brand repositioning and operational excellence.
Timeline
CEO & President
Simply Protein for Pets
02.2020 - 07.2025
CEO & President
Solid Gold Pet
11.2018 - 02.2020
Vice President of Sales
11.2013 - 11.2018
VP, National Accounts
Waggin’ Train Brands
05.2007 - 12.2011
National Sales Manager / East Division Sales Manager
UltraPet Company
06.2002 - 05.2007
Business Manager
Advantage Sales & Marketing
06.2001 - 06.2002
Business Manager
Marketing Specialists
04.1998 - 06.2001
Regional Category Manager / Customer Category Manager (I–III) / Key Sales Representative
Kraft Foods
01.1991 - 01.1998
Bachelor of Science - Business & Psychology
Georgia Southern University
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