Jodi Larson

Marketing & Business Development Leader | Strategic Partnerships | Brand Growth | Retail & Consumer Experience Expert

Waconia, Minnesota, United States

About

I’m a marketing and business development professional who loves to build—brands, businesses, strategies, and strong partnerships. Whether launching a retail startup from the ground up or leading national campaigns for major brands, I bring a mix of creativity, strategy, and data-driven decision-making to the table. Over the years, I’ve grown revenue by 35% through targeted marketing, scaled a six-figure startup with steady growth, and led a team that drove 40% sales growth in retail operations. My passion lies in creating marketing campaigns that actually move the needle and developing cross-functional strategies that enhance both visibility and profitability. I’ve had the privilege of working across industries—from managing promotions at Sony Electronics to founding Willa June Apparel, where I wore every hat imaginable. Whether it’s negotiating with suppliers, designing in-store layouts, or rolling out omnichannel campaigns, I thrive on solving problems creatively and collaboratively. My background also includes strategic partnership development, event execution, and brand storytelling—backed by a strong foundation in communication and business from the University of Minnesota. If you're looking for someone who can connect the dots between brand vision and business growth, let’s connect.

Experience

  • Fractional CMO at Ro Jo Retail Marketing Group
    Feb 2025 - Present · 1 yr 5 mos

    As a Business Owner and Fractional CMO, I partnered with retail clients to optimize product mix, strengthen competitive positioning, and refine shopper strategies—delivering 20% cost savings and measurable sales growth. I streamlined store operations by redesigning workflows and implementing best practices that improved efficiency and team performance. To elevate customer engagement, I developed and executed omnichannel strategies that seamlessly integrated e-commerce with brick-and-mortar experiences, driving a 23% lift in multi-channel sales. Additionally, I advised on loyalty and CRM initiatives that boosted repeat purchases by 15%, deepening customer relationships and fostering long-term retention.

  • Owner - Willa June Apparel + Home at Willa June Apparel + Home
    Dec 2016 - Feb 2025 · 8 yrs 3 mos

    At Willa June Apparel + Home, I led the business from concept to successful retail launch in an emerging market by developing and executing a comprehensive business plan. I created and implemented targeted marketing strategies that boosted revenue, expanded our customer base, and elevated brand recognition. I oversaw all aspects of financial planning, from budgeting to expenditure tracking, ensuring strong profitability. I also directed daily retail operations—including pricing, merchandising, and customer engagement—and designed both in-store layouts and digital branding to enhance our market presence. I sourced and negotiated with suppliers to deliver high-quality products at competitive prices, and took pride in building and inspiring a high-performing team that brought the brand to life.

  • Co-Owner at Ro Jo Retail Marketing Group, LLC
    Nov 2010 - Dec 2017 · 7 yrs 2 mos

    Co-founded and successfully operated a profitable, service-based business specializing in strategic marketing direction and project execution. Partnered with both aspiring and established national and international brands, including LG, Pure Audio UK, and Gourmia, as well as major retailers such as Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Kohl’s, and Home Depot. RoJo Retail Marketing is certified as a women’s business enterprise by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), the nation’s largest third-party certifier of the businesses owned and operated by women in the U.S.

  • Advertising and Promotions Manager at Sony Electronics
    Oct 2005 - Nov 2010 · 5 yrs 2 mos

    At Sony Electronics, I had the opportunity to lead some exciting national campaigns that really made an impact—one of which helped double Best Buy’s assortment in key product categories. I worked on everything from concepting and creating in-store displays to developing marketing materials that stayed true to the Sony brand, ultimately boosting customer engagement in stores by 20%. I also focused on crafting customized sales and marketing strategies that aligned with our national goals, and led digital marketing, merchandising, and experiential branding efforts to keep the brand front and center. On top of that, I kept a close eye on the competition and shared insights with leadership to help guide smart marketing decisions.

  • Sr. Coordinator Events at Musicland
    May 2002 - May 2005 · 3 yrs 1 mo

    During my time as Events Coordinator at Musicland Group, I managed high-profile events that generated substantial media exposure and drove meaningful sales growth. I negotiated strategic partnerships with major players in the movie, music, and gaming industries to secure exclusive promotional rights and elevate brand visibility. From planning to execution, I oversaw every aspect of event logistics, budgeting, and on-site operations, ensuring each initiative ran smoothly and delivered measurable impact.