Leading Ladies: Mamie Clark Williams

Story by Amelia Bowen
Mamie Clark Williams represents the fifth generation of the Clark family business, a story that began in 1903 with Carsie C. Clark and a small soda water operation. More than 120 years later, Clark Beverage Group has grown into one of the largest privately held beverage distributors in the United States, employing over 1,200 associates across Kentucky and Mississippi. “My great-great-grandfather C. C. Clark wrote to his children to diligently apply themselves to ensure the continued success and growth of the business,” Mamie says. “That letter remains a lasting source of direction and inspiration for our family.” Although Mamie always hoped to join the business, she gained valuable experience outside Clark through roles in ministry, sales and administration before bringing her skills home. Today, as Corporate Accounts Payable Specialist, she manages financial operations while collaborating across teams. She also assists with interior design for Clark’s new $100 million automated corporate headquarters opening in Bowling Green in late 2027, incorporating elements of iconic brands like Coca-Cola, Dr Pepper, Monster Energy, BODYARMOR and Molson Coors into the space. “My mission is to glorify God in all I do by serving others and my organization with excellence, integrity and a fully invested heart,” Mamie says. Her approach to leadership was shaped during a two-year college ministry fellowship at Virginia Tech in 2020, where relocating and fundraising taught her resilience, trust and adaptability. Strong leadership, to Mamie, means balancing confidence with humility, continuous learning and genuine investment in people. She credits much of her growth to her former manager, Susan, who demonstrated how to lead with high expectations and deep care. “Confidence is built by doing things that stretch you,” Mamie says. “Growth rarely happens inside your comfort zone, and some of life’s greatest opportunities are found on the other side of discomfort.” In her personal life, the University of Alabama graduate lives in Bowling Green with her husband, Peter. She recharges through travel, reading, baking sourdough bread and enjoying happy hours at Hickory & Oak. Clark Beverage Group proudly supports the Family Enrichment Center, Kids on the Block, House on the Hill, Toys for Tots and the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, carrying forward a multi-generational commitment to serving the region.