About Us

It's In My DNA

Hi, I’m Terri Waller—and if there’s one thing to know about me, it’s that the food service industry runs deep in my veins. Born and raised in the South by a family of hardworking food professionals, I grew up immersed in every aspect of the business. From prepping meals in college cafeterias to hauling food supplies across state lines, the food industry didn’t just support us—it shaped us.

Naturally, I found my own way into food service. I’ve worked in everything from quick service and food trucks to catering and full-service dining—starting in the kitchen and eventually stepping into corporate training. In 2006, I took a leap and launched the Benson Mills Group, blending my passion for food safety with a mission:

To help protect people by promoting food safety and reducing the risk of foodborne illness.

A fun fact: I once entered the Miller Coors Business Plan competition aiming for the health and wellness category. They moved me to the food category instead—pitting me against restaurant concepts. And guess what? That year, food safety stole the show—and I won.

Since then, Benson Mills Group has grown to offer food safety training, audits, and commercial cleaning services across Georgia. But in 2016, something unexpected happened: a well-known pizza brand introduced me to the world of ceiling tile cleaning. It started with seven stores. Today, we serve over 30 corporate and franchise locations—and counting.

Turns out, ceiling tile cleaning is a perfect match. With my background in food safety and air quality, it felt like a natural extension. I love helping businesses create cleaner, healthier, and safer environments—and ceiling tiles play a bigger role in that than most people realize.

As for me personally, I’ve always been driven. At one point, I was studying at both Troy University and Clayton State University, planning to become an environmental attorney. But when my mother’s health declined, my path changed. I didn’t end up in law—but I did find a career that’s just as meaningful: helping people and businesses thrive in safe, well-maintained spaces.

Learn More

Terri R. Waller, owner of The Benson Mills Group

Executive Profile

Terri R. Waller, MPA, CFSM, HACCP

Founder & CEO, The Benson Mills Group

Terri R. Waller isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty—both literally and figuratively. As the founder and CEO of The Benson Mills Group, she leads an award-winning food safety firm that tackles unsanitary environments head-on. But for Terri, the work goes far beyond cleaning up messes—it’s about protecting people and supporting the community.

Her passion for food safety was born during her time as a restaurant manager, where she saw firsthand how cleanliness and compliance impact public health. Today, she brings that same passion to every client, helping food service professionals build safer facilities and implement proactive food safety programs. Her dedication, talent, and track record of success speak for themselves.

Experience & Credentials

Terri brings a combined 27+ years of military training and over 15 years of experience in restaurant management and service. Her leadership has transformed The Benson Mills Group from a startup into a trusted name in food safety across the Southeast.

A seasoned executive and engaging educator, she is known for her approachable style and results-driven mindset.

Education

B.S. in Business Administration – Auburn University at Montgomery
M.P.A.in Environmental & Public Management – Troy University

Certifications

Certified Food Safety Manager
Certified Food Safety Instructor
Certified HACCP Manager (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point)

Awards & Recognition

· Outstanding Performance Coin from 42ndMission Support Squadron

· Outstanding Performance Coin from Air University Reserve Forces

· Outstanding Performance Coin from Squadron Officer College

· Outstanding Performance for Operations Readiness Inspection from HQ ACC Inspector General

· Superior Performance Award for Unit Compliance Inspection from HQ ACC Inspector General

· First Sergeant Council for Excellence 187thFighter Wing