Hi, I'm Carla,
your partner in propelling CPG brands to new heights.
With 15+ years of CPG marketing experience at both large and small companies as well as 8+ years of previous finance experience, I can help you and your brand do great things.
BRANDS I'VE CONSULTED WITH
From fractional CMO roles to new product development and launches, I have touched most aspects of consumer product marketing.
Mars: Starburst Goodies & All Pink
Led new product development for Starburst reduced sugar, better-for-you "Goodies" gummies including formulation, branding, positioning and launch plan as well as the annual 360 campaign for All Pink Starbursts.
SharkNinja: Ninja Thirsti Drink System
Drove the ideation, creation, branding and launch of the Ninja Thirsti Drink System, combining my experience from both SodaStream and Bai/Keurig Dr Pepper, Ninja’s first of its kind still and sparkling flavored drink pod system. Hired and trained the marketing team, including the VP of Marketing, and served as a subject matter expert leading strategic European and drink category expansion.
Stuffed Puffs
Served as a fractional CMO after product launch to build out marketing team and functions. Hired as full-time SVP of marketing and drove rebrand, first ever national marketing campaign with DJ Marshmello, and launch of seasonal and bites products.
Halfday Prebiotic Iced Tea
Provide senior beverage brand marketing expertise and leadership to execute brand revolution for Halfday Prebiotic Iced Tea, collaborating directly with the founders on writing the brief, selecting the agency, and delivering final assets inclusive of brand logo, product packaging, website, point of sale and campaigns. New branding to launch in March 2025.
Mike & Mike's Desserts
Serve as a fractional CMO to guide brand positioning and strategy as well as new product development and sales strategy.
HALO Hydration
Served as a fractional CMO. Functions included hiring creative and marketing talent, brand strategy and positioning, new product launches as well as paid media, influencer, and sales strategy.
Church & Dwight: Arm & Hammer
Managed analysis, development, and relaunch of Arm & Hammer detergent power paks.
ABOUT ME
Before we dive into the professional stuff, you might be wondering about that 'G' in GO'Brien. Here's the scoop: my maiden name (and now middle name) starts with a G. I tried my best to convince my husband to change our last name to GO'Brien, but when he wouldn't budge, I decided to name my business after my "new" last name instead. After all, it makes sense to be a GO'Brien in a sea of O'Briens!
This little twist in my name represents my approach to business - creative, memorable, and always willing to stand out from the crowd.
My diverse experience in both marketing and finance allows me to offer holistic solutions that drive real results for your brand.
My career journey includes:
- Large Company Experience: Honed my skills at industry giants Johnson & Johnson and Keurig Dr Pepper
- Startup Success: Played key roles in three successful acquisitions: PetArmor, Bai, and SodaStream
- Finance Foundation: 8 years in finance with Accenture & RTI International, providing a strong analytical backbone to my marketing strategies
Education:
- MBA in Product Marketing & Social Entrepreneurship from Duke University
- BS in Finance and Environmental Studies from Boston College
When I am not working on innovative brands, you can find me coaching softball, cheering on my kids from the sidelines (often touting one of the latest brands I am working with) or touring another country. I live in Yardley, PA with my husband, three children and our beloved dog Tatum.
