Jerri DeVard

Founder

Black Executive CMO Alliance (BECA)

Jerri’s journey towards becoming a trailblazing marketing executive began with a solid foundation in education and a passion for leadership. Graduating with a degree in Economics from Spelman College, Jerri honed her skills and knowledge while serving as a member of the Board of Trustees. She furthered her education by obtaining an MBA from Clark Atlanta University Graduate School of Business, solidifying her academic prowess.

With a strong educational background, Jerri embarked on a distinguished career spanning over three decades, marked by her leadership roles at prominent global brands. As the Founder of the Black Executive CMO Alliance (BECA), Jerri is dedicated to championing corporate diversity and nurturing the next generation of C-suite marketing executives.

Jerri’s tenure as the Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer of Office Depot, Inc., showcased her exceptional capabilities in overseeing various aspects of the business, including eCommerce, Customer Service, Marketing, Data & Analytics, Communications, and Events. Prior to this role, she served as the company’s Chief Marketing Officer, leaving an indelible mark on its marketing strategies and initiatives.

Before her tenure at Office Depot, Jerri held key positions at leading corporations such as The ADT Corporation, Nokia, Verizon Communications, Citibank, Revlon, Harrah’s Entertainment, the NFL, and General Mills (formerly the Pillsbury Company). Her diverse experience in these roles honed her marketing expertise and leadership acumen, positioning her as a respected figure in the industry.

In addition to her corporate responsibilities, Jerri is actively involved in humanitarian efforts and activism aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion. Her commitment to empowering underrepresented communities is evident through her leadership in organizations such as BECA and her advocacy for diversity in corporate boardrooms.

Jerri’s impact extends beyond her professional endeavors, as evidenced by her directorial roles on the boards of Under Armour Inc., Cars.com, and Roots Insurance. Her strategic insights and leadership contribute to the success of these organizations, further solidifying her reputation as a trusted industry leader.

Jerri’s outstanding contributions have earned her numerous accolades and honors throughout her career. Recognized by Black Enterprise as one of the 75 Most Powerful Blacks in Corporate America and 50 Most Powerful Women in Business, Jerri’s influence and leadership are widely acknowledged. Additionally, she has been lauded by AdAge as a Rockstar CMO and Power Player, and named among the 50 Women to Watch by the Wall Street Journal.

Jerri’s journey exemplifies resilience, determination, and a steadfast commitment to driving positive change in the corporate landscape. Her legacy as a visionary leader and advocate for diversity continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations of leaders.