Strategic. Bold. Proven.
A Growth Leader Who Builds What Matters.

For two decades, I’ve blended deep strategy, bold execution, and technical know-how to drive growth across startups, SaaS, and complex B2B ecosystems. I don’t just “do” marketing—I architect systems that scale.

Meet Sterling (Karie Barrett)

I’m a full-stack marketing and growth strategist with over 20 years of experience leading brand, platform, and go-to-market efforts across healthcare, govtech, SaaS, security, and media. I’ve launched 15+ startups, scaled systems across the funnel, and built powerhouse teams that deliver—without bloat, fluff, or burnout.

Currently, I’m serving as Head of Marketing & Growth Strategy at QAT Global, where I lead productized platform builds, drive multi-channel ABM campaigns, architect attribution systems, and have lead the marketing behind company revenue doubling twice. Whether embedded with founders or operating as a fractional CMO, I thrive in the space between big vision and flawless execution.

How I Lead

Clarity over Chaos

I simplify complexity and help teams move fast with confidence.

Strategy First, Always

Every campaign, every platform, every hire aligned to the bigger picture.

Systems that Scale

I build repeatable engines, not just one-off wins.

People Over Egos

I lead with empathy, mentor with intention, and build teams that work.

Relentlessly Results-Driven

I focus on what moves the needle and cut what doesn’t.

Bias for Execution

Ideas are cheap. Execution wins. I deliver.

Testimonials

Words from the People Who’ve Worked With Me

The Go-To Leader When the Stakes Are High

Karie is the person you turn to when the stakes are high. Her creative instincts and strategic thinking consistently kept our clients ahead of the tech curve. Her solutions always exceeded expectations—and she’s just as exceptional to work with in or outside the office.

Chuck Snyder, Enterprise & Government Client Advisor, Nearshore Development Expert, QAT Global

A Strategic Mentor Who Elevated My Career

Karie is one of the most diverse and talented leaders I’ve worked with. She understands marketing far beyond the basics—able to see how each piece works both separately and together. Her vision, creativity, and attitude are out of this world. She always made time to help me grow. Working under her was one of the best investments I’ve made in my career.

Scott Papek ,Mindset Coach to high performing teen athletes and teams.

Respected, Reliable, and Results-Focused

Karie is an exceptional coordinator with deep knowledge across IT and business architectures. She communicates clearly, takes initiative, and consistently delivers with minimal direction. She’s widely respected and depended greatly by her colleagues and a true asset to any team.

Julie Parsons, Director of People & Culture at QAT Global

Personal Note

Why I Work the Way I Do

I’m a builder at heart—midwestern born, remote-first by choice, and wired to solve complex problems with clarity and heart. I’ve led product strategy from my sunroom office, shipped startup launches across time zones, and mentored interns who now lead growth teams themselves.

I don’t need the spotlight—I just need to make it work.

Learn more about how I think and lead on my personal brand site.

Explore my Performance + Growth Operating System.

Catch up with my latest thought-leadership on Medium.

Listen to my podcast and subscribe to my newsletter.