Wray Ward Announces Leadership Change
Charlotte-based advertising and marketing agency Wray Ward has named a new chief executive officer as part of a major leadership transition. The company, widely recognized as Charlotte’s largest ad agency, announced that current President and Chief Growth Officer Catherine Black will assume the CEO role following the retirement of longtime leader John Roberts.
Roberts, who has served as CEO since 2001, played a pivotal role in guiding Wray Ward through decades of growth and transformation. His retirement marks the end of an era at the agency, which has become a staple in the Southeast’s marketing industry.
Catherine Black Steps Into New Role
Catherine Black, who has been with Wray Ward since 2016, brings a wealth of experience and a dynamic leadership style to her new position. She joined the agency as Director of Client Engagement and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming President in 2022. Her promotion to CEO is seen as a natural progression, given her significant contributions to company strategy and client development over the past eight years.
“Catherine is a visionary leader who understands our culture and our clients,” said Roberts in a company statement. “She’s played an integral role in shaping our growth and success. I have full confidence in her ability to lead Wray Ward into its next chapter.”
Black expressed gratitude for the opportunity and acknowledged the legacy Roberts leaves behind. “I’m honored and humbled to step into this role,” she said. “John has been an incredible mentor, and I’m excited to build upon the strong foundation he helped create.”
A Legacy of Growth and Innovation
Under Roberts’ leadership, Wray Ward expanded its services, client base, and national profile. The agency moved from its original location to a renovated 38,000-square-foot facility on Thrift Road in 2020, a space that reflects its commitment to innovation and creativity. The move symbolized a new era for Wray Ward, one that emphasized collaboration and adaptability in a rapidly changing industry.
Roberts also oversaw the agency’s evolution into a full-service marketing firm, offering everything from brand strategy and media planning to digital design and content creation. Wray Ward now serves clients nationwide across industries including home and building, healthcare, and consumer lifestyle.
“We’ve always focused on delivering meaningful results for our clients,” Roberts said. “Our team’s talent and passion have been the key drivers of our success.”
Looking Ahead: Vision for the Future
As Black steps into the CEO position, she aims to continue that momentum. Her leadership style emphasizes strategic thinking, inclusivity, and a client-first approach. With a background in both agency and client-side marketing, she brings a unique perspective to the role.
Black said she is committed to further strengthening the agency’s culture and expanding its capabilities. “We are in an exciting era of marketing where data, creativity, and technology intersect. I want to ensure Wray Ward remains at the forefront of that evolution,” she noted.
She also plans to build on Wray Ward’s commitment to community engagement. The agency has long supported local nonprofits and initiatives, and Black says that focus will remain a priority. “Giving back is part of who we are,” she said. “It’s important that we continue to invest in the community that has supported us for so long.”
Leadership Team Evolves
Alongside Black’s promotion, the agency is making additional changes to its leadership structure. Co-founder of the Home Insight division, Karen Reardon, will take on a more prominent strategic role, while several department heads are expected to gain expanded responsibilities. These adjustments are part of a broader plan to ensure continuity and foster innovation across the organization.
Wray Ward currently employs over 120 professionals and has been recognized multiple times as one of Charlotte’s Best Places to Work. The agency’s client roster includes national and regional brands such as VELUX, Sunbrella, and Legrand.
As the agency moves forward under new leadership, clients and industry insiders alike will be watching to see how Wray Ward continues to adapt and grow in an ever-changing advertising landscape.
This article is inspired by content from Original Source. It has been rephrased for originality. Images are credited to the original source.