My lifelong passion for agriculture serves as the foundation and compass for my career, which is as dynamic and challenging as it is rewarding. As CEO of DMA Solutions, Inc., a leading marketing agency exclusively serving the fresh produce industry, I have the opportunity to work alongside talented, diverse marketers who share a belief in the good of food that is grown.I discovered my love for ag at a young age. As an agricultural economics student at Texas A&M University, I was then introduced to the possibility of a career in fresh produce. After graduation, I started at Standard Fruit & Vegetable, where I held several leadership roles—including director of marketing—until the company’s 2003 acquisition by Del Monte Fresh Produce, at which time I became the VP of sales and oversaw Walmart and Sam’s Club business for North America.The ten years I spent selling fresh produce was pivotal and help to shape my firm belief that marketing can greatly impact demand for produce—thus driving consumption—which results in more nutritious eating habits and a healthier, happier society. In 2004, this realization led me to found DMA Solutions with the goal of building brands through creative, results-driven marketing. My life’s work—whether selling potatoes or leading marketers—is one small part of a larger calling: serving as a champion for food that is grown.I reside in Dallas with my husband Drew, daughter Mackey Payton (she attends NYU, but Texas is home), and dog Shelby Rae. I would love to connect socially or at an industry event, but come prepared: karaoke may be required.The DMA Solutions team believes in sharing knowledge to help transform marketing for a once commodity-centric industry. Visit The Core Blog for insight on:→Increasing Demand for Fresh Produce→Brand Strategy→Sales and Marketing Alignment→Public Relations→Social Media→Logo & Website Design→Content Creation & Copywriting→Photography & Videography→Tradeshow & Industry Events