Catherine Merritt

Chief is a private network built to drive more women into positions of power and keep them there. Chief is the only organization specifically designed for senior women leaders to strengthen their leadership journey, cross-pollinate ideas across industries, and effect change from the top down.

In less than four years at the helm, Catherine has grown the business in both size and revenue due to her people-first philosophy, innovative approach and entrepreneurial spirit. Catherine’s leadership style is deeply rooted and reflected in Spool’s four values - Authenticity, Curiosity, Agility, Impact - and the agency is committed to being a drama-free, no ego, supportive and empathetic company that cares deeply for one another and for the success of its clients. Spool is proving it is a recipe for success both for its clients and its staff. After only less than four years, Spool has seen tremendous growth and Success. It was named the fastest-growing agency globally by PRovoke Media in 2021. In August 2022, Spool was listed as the 940 overall fastest-growing private company in the country, positioning it within the top 20% of the overall Inc. 5000 list. Spool ranked as the 71st fastest growing company within the marketing space and 46th overall in Chicago where the agency’s headquarters reside. Earlier this year, Spool was also listed as #20 on Inc. Magazine’s 2022 list of Midwest Region’s Fastest Growing Companies. Spool was also named a Bronze Winner in the Stevie Awards for Great Employers for the company’s investment arm. The agency has also been announced as part of PRNews Top 100 Agency Elite in 2021, 2022, and 2023 (Note: announcement is under embargo until September 15), and was a finalist for New PR Agencies of the Year from PRovoke Media. Additionally, Spool was shortlisted for two 2022 Sabre Awards categories - Best Agency Disruptors and Innovator of the Year.