Mary Wells is a legendary figure in the advertising industry, renowned for her groundbreaking achievements as the first female CEO of a publicly traded company. Co-founding the acclaimed advertising agency Wells Rich Greene in 1966, she transformed the landscape of marketing with her innovative campaigns. Under her leadership, the agency produced iconic advertisements such as “I Love NY” and “Plop, Plop, Fizz, Fizz,” which not only captured public attention but also set new standards for creativity in advertising.

Before establishing her own agency, Wells honed her skills at several prestigious firms, including Doyle Dane Bernbach, where she played a pivotal role in developing the successful campaign for Braniff International Airways, famously dubbed “The End of the Plain Plane.” This campaign was instrumental in revitalizing the airline and showcased her ability to blend creativity with strategic thinking. Her work at Jack Tinker and Partners further solidified her reputation as a leading advertising mind, where she was part of a team that created compelling campaigns for various clients.

Wells Rich Greene quickly became a powerhouse in the advertising world, attracting high-profile clients such as IBM, Procter & Gamble, and Sheraton Hotels. Her strategic insights and creative vision led to significant increases in brand visibility and sales, exemplified by the remarkable success of the Benson and Hedges campaign, which skyrocketed sales from 1 billion to 14 billion cigarettes in just four years.

Recognized for her contributions to the industry, Wells received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Lion of St. Mark award at the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations of advertising professionals, proving that innovation and determination can break barriers and redefine industries.