The J.M. Smucker Co. appoints new president and COO
According to J.M Smucker, this appointment supports the ongoing development of their executive talent as the firm becomes poised for long-term growth and success.
USA – The J.M. Smucker Co. has announced the promotion of John Brase to the position of president and chief operating officer, effective April 30.
In this expanded role, Brase will continue overseeing the company’s U.S. Retail Coffee, U.S. Retail Frozen Handheld, U.S. Retail Pet Foods, and Sweet Baked Snacks segments, as well as its International and Away from Home businesses.
He will also manage the company’s Sales, Operations, and Supply Chain functions while enhancing his efforts to drive business growth.
Additionally, his responsibilities will include participating in external engagements and industry associations to increase the company’s influence with its stakeholders. Brase will continue to report to Mark Smucker, chair of the board and CEO.
According to the company, this promotion recognizes the breadth of John’s responsibilities and the positive impact he has had on the business’ performance over the past five years.
Brase has served as the company’s COO since 2020 and brings more than three decades of experience in the consumer goods industry, with significant expertise in brand management, business operations, manufacturing, marketing, and sales.
Since joining the company, he has been essential in improving the strategic and operational execution of the organization and its portfolio.
His focus on growth brands, simplification, and inspiring leadership has been key to the company’s performance and progress.
He has also played a leading role in establishing the company’s Transformation Office, which has achieved substantial cost savings and productivity improvements, ultimately strengthening the bottom line and providing resources for business investment, according to the company.
“The Smucker portfolio is synonymous with beloved everyday brands, and I am incredibly excited to take on these additional responsibilities and work closely with Mark and the entire team to advance our strategy and enhance our key growth platforms,” remarked Brase.
The J.M. Smucker Company, commonly known as Smucker’s, is an American manufacturer of food and beverage products headquartered in Orrville, Ohio.
The company was founded in 1897 as a producer of apple butter and currently operates three major business units: consumer foods, pet foods, and coffee.
In 2023, The J.M. Smucker Co. acquired Hostess Brands for a total enterprise value of approximately US$5.6B.
This transaction included popular sweet baked goods brands such as Hostess Donettes, Twinkies, CupCakes, Ding Dongs, Zingers, Coffee Cakes, HoHos, Mini Muffins, and Fruit Pies, along with the Voortman® cookie brand.
The acquisition enabled J.M. Smucker to take over manufacturing facilities in Emporia, Kansas; Burlington, Ontario; Chicago, Illinois; Columbus, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana, and other locations. Additionally, around 3,000 employees joined the company as part of this transaction.
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