Forty Under 40: Mark McWhorter, 37

Mark McWhorter spent years in the investment sector and liked most of it, but one thing bothered him.
“Sometimes the market just doesn’t cooperate,” he said, laughing.
McWhorter craved something more tangible, and found it at Clorox Co. in 2003. As a senior sales analyst for Wal-Mart’s home care line of products, much of his job involves forecasting volume and managing trade funds. Translation: he ensures product demand is met while balancing promotion budgets.
It’s an ever-changing endeavor that’s rarely boring, but always produces real results.
“The most satisfying thing at the end of the day is being able to show the fruits of your labor,” he said.
Another rewarding endeavor for McWhorter, who earned an MBA in 2008, is his work with Horses for Healing, a group dedicated to enhancing the well-being of those with special needs. McWhorter’s daughter, Annalyn, has Down syndrome and began riding horses as a 2-year-old.
“It has helped her physically, mentally, everything,” he said, “and if they help you, I just feel like you ought to give back.”
McWhorter thus serves on the board of directors and is active in fundraising efforts. He also enjoys fly-fishing with his wife, Jennifer, and they’ve done so from Arkansas to Wyoming to Canada.
“Trout don’t live in ugly places,” he said.