Nelson, an early and integral member of Red Shoes Inc., is set to lead the agency into its next era of growing and protecting brands
APPLETON, Wis. [Oct. 22, 2025] — Red Shoes Inc., a leading women-owned, full-service marketing and public relations agency based in Appleton, Wisconsin, announces the appointment of Maria Nelson as president and partner. Nelson, who has been with Red Shoes Inc. since it began in 2008, brings more than two decades of experience working alongside Lisa Cruz, founder and CEO of Red Shoes Inc., to strengthen and expand the agency’s role as a trusted partner for brand growth in Wisconsin and nationwide.
“Maria has been with me and Red Shoes since the early days and knows this business inside and out,” said Cruz, founder and CEO of Red Shoes Inc. “Altogether, we have worked alongside each other for more than 20 years in this industry and she is an integral part of this business. Her leadership, vision and values, with a focus on company culture, make her the ideal president to take Red Shoes to the next level of growth.”
Key highlights of Nelson’s contributions and leadership include:
- Expanding Red Shoes’ company footprint nationwide with double-digit growth in the last five years.
- Growing Red Shoes’ staff fivefold since 2008.
- Exceptional employee retention, with several employees having been with the company a decade or longer, supported by comprehensive benefits, flexible schedules and wellness programs.
- Completion of the St. Norbert College Center for Exceptional Leadership program, advancing her capabilities and ethics as an executive.
“From the day Lisa invited me to take a leap of faith and join Red Shoes, I’ve believed in the power of what we’re building, a place where courage, collaboration and care lead the way,” said Nelson, president of Red Shoes Inc. “As I step into this new role, my commitment remains the same: to our clients, our team and the values that have always made Red Shoes special. I’m proud to continue our legacy of leadership that empowers women and nurtures the next generations of talent in our industry.”
For more information about Red Shoes Inc., its comprehensive full-service marketing and public relations services or 24/7 crisis communication expertise, visit redshoesinc.com.
Photo included.
Maria Nelson, president of Red Shoes Inc.
