Barbara Apple Sullivan

— Founder & Managing Partner

For over three decades, Barbara has been at the forefront of brand engagement. Her experience working with leading organizations—both from a client and agency perspective, has given her a unique perspective on the role of brand and its impact on business outcomes.

In 1990, Barbara founded Sullivan to help organizations of consequence bridge the gap between brand and customer experience at key moments in the customer journey through integrated strategy, design, and digital experiences. As Managing Partner, Barbara continues to build the firm’s vision, set our business priorities, and oversee day-to-day operations.  She cares deeply about the quality of work and sets the tone for all of Sullivan’s client engagements.

Prior to Sullivan, Barbara held senior marketing roles at Chemical Bank (now JPMorgan Chase) and American Express. She began her career in her native city of Minneapolis as Product Manager for Pillsbury’s Slice ‘n Bake Cookies, and in account management at Carmichael Lynch Advertising.

Barbara has an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BS in Economics from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. She is a trustee of The School of American Ballet at Lincoln Center.

When not working or attending ballet, Barbara can either be found on the golf course or playing Sudoku.