Katie Essing

Katie Essing is an Assistant Teaching Professor in the Marketing Department at the Robert J. Trulaske, Sr. College of Business, University of Missouri. She is currently teaching retail and digital marketing courses. Essing is an alum of the Trulaske College of Business and was a Sam Walton Scholar.  She has over 30 years of experience in marketing, buying, retail, commercial real estate and nonprofit management. Essing is the founder of Strategic Retailer, LLC, providing retail consulting, coaching, education, community building, and related services in support of economic development for merchants.  Previously, Essing served as the Executive Director for The District, the downtown of Columbia, Missouri.  Essing also was the Senior General Manager for The Mall in Columbia, Maryland, owned and managed by General Growth Properties. Essing also has experience working as the Senior General Manager for Columbia and Capital Malls in Columbia, Missouri. In addition, she was the Group Vice President of Marketing for a group of Midwest shopping malls. Essing also was a retail buyer for Famous Barr Department Stores, a division of the May Company.

Essing's work experience has been dedicated to creating sustainable retail experiences. Her expertise includes developing live/work/play neighborhoods; creating authentic, dense and sustainable urban spaces; cultivating a creative and innovative culture of diverse enterprises; and generating traffic and sales building marketing campaigns and events.  

Throughout her career, Essing has been involved with organizations such as the International Council of Shopping Centers, the International Downtown Association, and the Missouri Main Street Association.  She has received certifications and designations including Google Analytics Certified, Online Teaching Certified, Certified Gallup Strengthsfinders Coach, Certified Tourism Ambassador, Certified Shopping Center Manager, and Certified Shopping Center Marketing Director.

Essing is actively engaged with the College of Business, partnering to organize the annual "Making Me Marketable" event. Essing is also dedicated to serving the community, including being a member of the Columbia Metro Rotary Club. Essing previously served on the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and the United Way of Central Maryland Board of Directors.