Release July 3, 2023: Verdin Marketing Announces C-Suite Appointments
Longtime employees Ashlee Akers and Michelle Starnes elevated to executive leadership positions
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA – Verdin Marketing, a locally based marketing firm founded in 2003, announces that longtime team members Ashlee Akers and Michelle Starnes have been promoted to the C-Suite effective July 1, 2023. As longstanding minority partners at the company and proven leaders in their respective positions, Akers and Starnes will take on vital executive roles to support the growth of the business.
With an exceptional track record at Verdin Marketing spanning over a decade, Ashlee Akers, serving as VP/Client Services since 2013, has been appointed as the Chief Strategy Officer. Akers, a distinguished graduate from Cal Poly, joined Verdin in 2010 following successful tenures in the wine industry and media sales. In her new capacity, Akers will continue to lead the account team, and collaborate closely with clients to develop effective strategies and drive successful creative executions.
Michelle Starnes, who has managed operations for the past nine years, will now assume the role of Chief Operations Officer. Also a distinguished Cal Poly alumna, Starnes brings a wealth of experience in customer service, production, and design since joining Verdin in 2012. In her expanded position, Starnes will oversee critical administrative functions of the business, including process development, software management, and HR.
“Both Ashlee and Michelle have played an integral role in the success we’ve had over the past several years,” President/CEO Mary Verdin said. “Their unwavering dedication to our clients and the Verdin team has been outstanding, and I am excited to recognize their hard work and accomplishments with these promotions.”