At Thread, we pride ourselves on being innovative and embracing change for the better. This year, we believe we have our biggest and best change yet.
Judy McFarland has been with Thread Marketing Group for over 21 years, and at the beginning of 2017 she was elevated to Chief Executive Officer and majority owner. Judy succeeds the company’s founder, Joe Sharp, who has been named Chief Operating Officer. “With her more than 30 years of marketing and advertising expertise, Judy is Thread’s cornerstone,” said Sharp. “Her vision, passion, and focus on client service will continue to create ample opportunities and a competitive advantage for the firm and our clients – now and into the distant future.”
After Judy’s transition to CEO, Thread received notable national certifications such as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Women’s Business Development Center – a certifying partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).
The WBENC certification for women-owned companies is the most recognizable and sought after certification of its kind. WBENC’s national standard of certification implemented by the Women’s Business Development Center is a thorough process including an in-depth review of the business and site inspection. The certification process is designed to confirm the business is at least 51 percent owned, operated and controlled by a woman or women.
“We are thrilled to be officially certified as a Women-Owned Business Enterprise,” said McFarland. “When Joe started this business 30 years ago, he could have benefited from organizations such as the WBENC to compliment his hard work, innovative strategies and talent when competing for new business. By receiving the WBENC designation, we look forward to the many doors that certification will help open.”
By including women-owned businesses among their vendors, corporations and government agencies demonstrate their commitment to fostering diversity and the continued development of their supplier and vendor diversity programs.
Judy's new role and Thread's new certification caught the attention of our local media. Thread is honored to have a spotlight on Judy in the Toledo Business Journal.
Thread is eager to take the next steps into our future and as we help our clients connect with customers. Members of Team Orange are proud to be working along side an amazing and inspirational leader like Judy. The future at Thread is bright!
If you are interested in learning more about working with Thread Marketing Group, drop us a line. We would love to talk with you.