Lauren Triffler

Lauren Triffler has been a national leader in strategic communications and innovative change management philosophy 15 years. Her expertise in developing sharp messaging and impactful delivery has led her to her current role as the Director of Corporate Affairs & Communications for HARIBO of America, Inc., the world’s #1 gummi brand. Since joining HARIBO, she has been instrumental in shaping the company’s communications strategy, starting with building the communications department from the ground up as the first communications hire outside of Europe in the company’s 100-year history. She established key communications infrastructure, streamlining content creation and operational processes, and helped foster consistent, impactful messaging – all leading to talent attraction and retention while delivering double-digit growth.

At HARIBO, Lauren leads the strategy and execution of media relations, brand PR, internal communications, crisis management, and community affairs. She also serves as the company spokesperson, working with national consumer and trade media to build and protect HARIBO’s corporate reputation while amplifying brand awareness in the U.S. Under her leadership, HARIBO has garnered significant media attention, including a Today Show and Bloomberg tour of its U.S. factory and a Guinness World Record for the largest gummi candy mosaic in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Lauren’s commitment to servant leadership and empathetic communication shines through in her approach to internal communications. She led change management communications while HARIBO built its first-ever factory in the U.S., hiring more than 200 associates during a global pandemic. Lauren works closely the the C-suite, counseling the executive Board on storytelling that will drive the business, build brand awareness and attract top talent.

In addition to her work with HARIBO U.S., Lauren is an advisor on the Global Corporate Communications Council, where she helps shape communications practices internationally across the company. Previously, she built a strong foundation in strategic communications at leading organizations including Mars, USG, BMO Harris Bank, and CIBC.

Lauren’s philosophy on communication is rooted in the belief that it is as much about listening as it is about speaking. She emphasizes the importance of delivering the right message at the right time through the right channels, grounded in a deep understanding of what’s both spoken and unspoken. By listening first and speaking with purpose, she helps turn conversations into opportunities and opportunities into growth.

Outside of work, Lauren is passionate about giving back to the community and giving kids a safe space to learn and play, and she works closely with the Union League Boys and Girls Club of Chicago and the Boys and Girls Club of Kenosha.