Campbell’s Soup appoints new CEO
Food and drinks giant Campbell Soup has appointed Denise Morrison as its new president and chief executive officer.
She will take over from Douglas Conant on August 1. Conant will step down after more than a decade in the role. He will also leave Campbell’s board of directors.
Paul Charron, chairman of the board of directors, said: “Denise is a superb leader with strong operational skills, comprehensive knowledge of the business and the food industry, and powerful insights into the opportunities for driving profitable growth across Campbell’s portfolio. The board is confident that the company will flourish under her direction.”
Morrison (pictured) has more than 35 years of experience in the consumer packaged goods industry. She began her career at Procter & Gamble in 1975, and later held positions of increasing responsibility at PepsiCo, Nestle USA, Kraft and Nabisco. After joining Campbell in April 2003 as chief customer officer, she was appointed president of Campbell USA in 2005, and president of North America Soup, Sauces and Beverages in 2007.
In her current role as chief operating officer since October 2010, she has led all of Campbell’s global businesses, including Campbell North America and Campbell International. She earned her BS degree in economics and psychology from Boston College.
“I’m honored and inspired by the appointment to lead this great company,” adds Morrison. “At a time of rapid change and significant challenge in the food industry, we have the people, the brands and the opportunities to unlock the potential of our business and build shareholder value. In the past nine months, I have had the privilege of working closely with our Board and our leadership team to examine our business with fresh eyes and design a new strategic direction for the company. We are immensely energised by our plan and by the skill, commitment and values of the Campbell organisation.”