Founder of Herold Growth Consulting, Vice President of Marketing and PR  at Georgia State University

Jo Ann Herold is a purpose-driven marketing leader, brand strategist, and author known for her leadership with iconic brands. She currently serves as the Vice President of Marketing at Georgia State University, where she leads the institution’s marketing strategy, brand positioning, and engagement efforts. 

Herold is the author of the award-winning memoir, Living on a Smile: 16 Ways to Live a Big Life and Lead with Love, a book that shares insights on leadership, personal growth, and purpose. Most recently, she published Future Purpose: The Playlist to Design a Career You Love. 

Prior to her role at Georgia State, Herold held high-profile marketing leadership positions, including Chief Marketing Officer at The Honey Baked Ham Company (twice), and Global Chief Marketing Office at Interface, Inc. and Vice President of Brand and Communications at Arby’s Restaurant Group. In all of these roles, she played a crucial part in brand transformations, sustainability and purpose initiatives, and growth strategies. 

In addition to these roles, Herold is on the Executive Board of Fast Company and is a frequent contributor, sharing her expertise on branding and leadership. She has received numerous industry awards recognizing her contributions to marketing and leadership, including several Effies, a personal Lifetime Achievement from the Atlanta American Marketing Association, and the Marketer for Good. 

Herold is known for her ability to drive business growth while fostering a culture of teamwork, authenticity, and kindness in the workplace. She loves family, walking in Atlanta and all over the world, concerts, and being with family and friends.