About Us

It's In My DNA

Hi there! I’m Terri R. Waller, and if there’s one thing to know about me, it’s that the food service industry is in my DNA. I was born and raised in the South to a family of hardworking food industry professionals. Whether it was prepping meals in a college cafeteria, trucking food supplies across the state, or opening new restaurants, the food industry didn’t just provide for us—it shaped who we are.

I also had my hands in food service. I’ve worked in quick service, food trucks, catering, and full-service dining, working in prep and eventually moving into corporate training. In 2006, I decided to turn my love for food service and safety into something bigger by launching the Benson Mills Group. My mission? To help protect people by promoting food safety and reducing the risks of foodborne illnesses.

Here’s a fun little story: When I entered the Miller Coors Business Plan competition, I thought I’d compete in the health and wellness category. But they moved me to the food category, which meant going head-to-head with restaurants. That year, food safety took the spotlight—and I won.

Over the years, Benson Mills Group has grown to provide 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. I dove right in and found that I really, really enjoyed ceiling tiles. We started small, with just seven stores, and quickly grew to serve over 30 corporate and franchise locations.

Ceiling tile cleaning felt like a perfect fit for me. My background in food safety and air quality made the transition seamless, and I love knowing that my work helps businesses create cleaner, healthier, and safer spaces.

A little about me: I’m someone who’s always been driven. At one point, I was attending both Troy University and Clayton State University simultaneously, dreaming of becoming an environmental attorney. But when my mom’s health took a turn, my priorities shifted. While I didn’t end up in law, I’ve found a career that’s just as meaningful—helping people and businesses thrive in safe environments.

Learn More

Terri R. Waller, owner of The Benson Mills Group

Executive Profile

Terri R. Waller, MPA, CFSM, HACCP

Terri R. Waller, owner, founder and CEO of The Benson Mills Group, is not afraid to get her hands dirty - both figuratively and literally. Leading an award-winning Food Safety Firm, she is no stranger to unsanitary situations. Waller understands that the most important aspect of her company’s efforts is protecting the community. Operating with a passion she developed as a restaurant manager, she now assists food service professionals in developing safe facilities and educates them on how to be proactive with the development and implementation of food safety programs. Her dedication is only surpassed by her talent and accomplishments.

Experience and Training

With more than 27 years of military and combined 15 years of restaurant management and service experience, Waller brings a wealth of knowledge to The Benson Mills Group. She has proven herself to be a dynamic and amiable executive, having developed the company from its conception to its position as a leader in the food service industry.

Waller is a graduate of Auburn University at Montgomery with a degree in Business Administration as well as a graduate of Troy University with a Masters of Public Administration degree with a double concentration in Environmental Management and Public Management. Waller is also a Certified Food Safety Manager, a Certified Food Safety Instructor, and a Certified Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point Manager.

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

· Commendation Medal for Exceptional Meritorious & Distinguished Military Service to the State of Alabama

· MillerCoors Urban Entrepreneur Series Business Plan Competition Winner

· Front Cover of Smart Woman Magazine

· Top 25 People of Influence by UpScale Magazine

· QSR One Source Magazine.