Tim O’Connor is a strategist, advisor, and organizational leader who helps companies and industry organizations navigate growth, change, and complex market environments.

Over a career spanning more than 25 years, Tim has worked at the intersection of strategy, marketing, and leadership—guiding organizations through moments that require clear thinking, strong stakeholder alignment, and disciplined execution. He has served as CEO or Executive Director of several national organizations and has led global marketing initiatives that reshaped industry positioning, expanded markets, and strengthened consumer demand.

Tim brings a practical, real-world perspective to his advisory work. As President and CEO of the United States Potato Board, he led the global marketing organization for the U.S. potato industry, building an international team and helping increase exports. He later served as President of the Wheat Foods Council and Executive Director of the National Christmas Tree Association, where he guided strategy, communications, and industry engagement during periods of significant change.

Today, through Tim O’Connor & Associates, he advises boards, CEOs, and leadership teams on strategy, brand positioning, demand generation, and organizational effectiveness. Known for his thoughtful approach and collaborative style, Tim works closely with clients to turn insight into action and strategy into results.

Tim holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Western Illinois University and an MBA from the University of Illinois, and he completed the Competition and Strategy Program at Harvard Business School.