As Director of Business Development for The Goley Companies (TGC), Kristin has redefined what leadership in business development means, transforming it from simply expanding locations to building a lasting, innovative, and inclusive brand presence. Her work has not only propelled the growth of TGC but also left a meaningful impact on the insulation industry, a sector historically led by men.

Driving Growth Through Strategic Marketing & Business Development

When Kristin joined TGC seven years ago, she was the sole voice dedicated to marketing within the company. Rather than seeing that as a limitation, she turned it into an opportunity laying the foundation for a marketing-driven approach to business development. Kristin has since played a pivotal role in shaping the brand identity of TGC’s existing locations while strategically guiding expansion into new markets. She seamlessly balances day-to-day execution with long-term vision, planning and managing initiatives herself while also collaborating closely with agency partners to elevate the company’s profile.

Her approach proves that business development is more than acquiring new opportunities, it’s about creating sustained visibility, fostering meaningful relationships, and ensuring every location reflects the values and strengths of the TGC brand.

Empowering Leadership in a Male-Dominated Industry

Kristin’s leadership is especially powerful given the industry context. In a field where women have been historically underrepresented, she has carved out a space not only for herself but for others who will follow. Her presence and success have challenged stereotypes, making her both a role model and a change agent.

Her colleagues describe her as passionate, driven, and deeply committed. One intern shared, “As a young woman in the marketing world, having Kristin to look up to has been such a joy. I’ve learned—and continue to learn—so much under her guidance.” This sentiment captures the ripple effect of Kristin’s work: she doesn’t just achieve results for TGC; she uplifts and empowers those around her.

Mentorship & Talent Development

Kristin invests in the growth of her colleagues with the same intensity she brings to her business objectives. She leads by example, showing younger professionals that determination, creativity, and grit can open doors even in industries where women are underrepresented. Her mentorship style is marked by encouragement, transparency, and an unwavering belief in the potential of others. Many who have worked with her credit her guidance as instrumental in their own professional development.

The Impact of Her Leadership

• Sustained Business Growth: Through her vision and execution, TGC has strengthened its market position and expanded its footprint.
• Elevated Brand Identity: She has helped shape a recognizable, trusted identity that resonates with both customers and partners.
• Industry Impact: Kristin’s leadership has raised the profile of women in the insulation industry, setting an example for others to follow.
• Mentorship Legacy: Her guidance has inspired the next generation of women leaders in marketing and business development.

For more than two decades, Kelly Barber has been a driving force behind Truluck’s success, growth, and reputation as a premier dining brand. As Director of Marketing, she has not only strengthened the brand’s national presence but also infused every initiative with purpose, creativity, and compassion. Kelly’s leadership demonstrates the essence of empowerment – building a thriving brand while uplifting communities and inspiring those around her.

Strategic Brand Leadership & Growth

Kelly’s career at Truluck’s spans over 21 years, during which she has continuously shaped the brand’s evolution and impact. She has overseen multiple interior renovations and brand upgrades that have elevated the guest experience, ensuring the restaurant remains a leader in fine dining. Working closely with Motion and other creative partners, Kelly has executed innovative marketing campaigns across digital and traditional platforms, always aligning messaging with Truluck’s reputation for excellence. Her vision ensures that every brand touchpoint, from advertising to in-restaurant experiences, resonates with guests and reinforces the company’s commitment to quality.

Innovative Campaigns With Social Impact

Kelly’s creativity shines most brightly in initiatives that blend brand storytelling with social good. Most recently, she spearheaded the Slice of Healing campaign, a weeklong effort where Truluck’s donated all proceeds from its world-famous carrot cake to Mercy Chefs, a nonprofit delivering chef-prepared meals to victims of the catastrophic July 4th floods in Texas. Thanks to Kelly’s leadership and ability to mobilize her team and guests, the campaign raised $15,000 in just one week, a testament to her ability to harness the power of community for meaningful impact.

Equally inspiring is her creation of Press On, a year-round partnership with Katz Coffee that benefits the PTSD Foundation of America’s Camp Hope in Houston. With every French Press and Espresso Martini sold, Truluck’s donates $1 to support veterans coping with combat-related PTSD. This initiative not only demonstrates Kelly’s compassion but also reflects her ability to develop sustainable, impactful programs that create ongoing change.

Championing Excellence in Guest Experience

Kelly’s work goes beyond marketing campaigns. She is deeply invested in elevating the guest experience at every level. From the ambiance of renovated dining spaces to the storytelling behind each menu item, Kelly ensures that Truluck’s is not simply a place to dine, but a destination where guests feel connected to the brand’s values. Her blend of strategic insight and attention to detail consistently translates into memorable experiences that keep guests returning and inspire loyalty across the country.

A Woman of Empowerment & Influence

Kelly embodies the values celebrated by the Stacy Gelman WE Award:

• Entrepreneurial Innovation: Developing creative campaigns like Slice of Healing and Press On that extend brand influence while making a real difference.
• Visionary Leadership: Guiding Truluck’s through decades of growth and transformation while keeping the brand at the forefront of the fine dining industry.
• Equity-Driven Impact: Designing initiatives that uplift vulnerable communities, from flood victims to combat veterans.
• Institutional Transformation: Positioning Truluck’s as not only a dining leader but also a brand with heart, integrity, and purpose.

Lasting Impact

Kelly Barber’s leadership ensures that Truluck’s is more than a fine dining institution—it is a force for good. Her vision and compassion have created initiatives that touch lives far beyond the restaurant’s walls while securing Truluck’s reputation as a brand synonymous with excellence.

For her creativity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to meaningful impact, Kelly Barber is a truly deserving recipient of the 2025 Stacy Gelman Women Empowered Award.