Anne Sempowski Ward

Anne Sempowski Ward has extensive work experience in various industries. Anne Sempowski began their career at Procter & Gamble in 1993 as a Summer Engineer in Feminine Care. Anne Sempowski then held roles such as Process Engineer in Feminine Care and Assistant Brand Manager in Feminine Care & Baby Care.

In 1999, Anne became a Brand Manager in Beauty & Hair Care, where they integrated P&G's largest acquisition, Clairol, and pioneered multicultural marketing. Anne Sempowski later became an Associate Marketing Director in Beauty, developing growth strategies and increasing market share among multicultural consumers.

Anne joined The Coca-Cola Company in 2006 as an Assistant Vice President, leading the development of growth strategies for all Coca-Cola brands. Anne Sempowski focused on targeting new consumers and developed a 5-year plan to increase African American market share.

In 2007, Anne became the President & COO of Ebony & Jet Magazines and Fashion Fair Cosmetics at Johnson Publishing Company. Anne Sempowski led a strategic growth plan for the media and beauty company, implemented a corporate restructuring plan, and developed a 3-year strategic plan for Ebony magazine.

Afterward, Anne co-founded and served as CEO of The FORWARD Group, a business consulting start-up focused on helping businesses and brands scale. Anne Sempowski worked with Fortune 100 clients and small to mid-sized technology, beauty, and media companies, achieving significant revenue growth.

Anne's recent experience includes being the Chief Executive Officer at CURiO Brands, where they transformed the company into a high-growth portfolio of brands. Anne Sempowski executed successful founder/private equity exits, spearheaded a major acquisition, and generated exceptional shareholder returns.

Anne Sempowski also serves as an Independent Board Director at SPS Commerce, Vanda Pharmaceuticals, and Spectrum Brands, Inc. In these roles, they provide thought leadership, corporate governance, and expertise in consumer marketing and retail operations.

Additionally, Anne has served as a Strategic Advisor for The Lip Bar Inc., offering their expertise in strategic planning and business development.

Overall, Anne Sempowski Ward has a diverse and impressive work history, consistently driving growth and delivering exceptional results in various leadership roles across different industries.

Anne Sempowski Ward completed their education at Duke University and Mercy High School Farmington Hills. Anne Sempowski graduated from Duke University in 1994 with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.S.E.) with a focus on Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science. Prior to their undergraduate studies, they attended Mercy High School Farmington Hills from 1986 to 1990. Anne Sempowski further pursued their education at Duke University, completing an MBA program at The Fuqua School of Business from 2003 to 2004.