Proven Expertise Meets Iconic Portfolio (Image Credits: Foodbusinessnews.net)
Orrville, Ohio – The J.M. Smucker Co. elected Katie Williams as its next Chief Marketing Officer, a move set to shape the future of its beloved food and pet brands.[1][2]
Proven Expertise Meets Iconic Portfolio
Katie Williams steps into the role with more than two decades of brand-building success. Most recently, she served as U.S. Chief Marketing Officer at Haleon, where she directed strategy for powerhouse consumer health names like Advil, Sensodyne, Tums, Emergen-C, and Centrum.[1]
Prior to Haleon’s 2022 spin-off from GSK, Williams held the same position there. Her career also includes key marketing leadership at Mondelēz International and Kraft Heinz Co. This depth positions her to guide Smucker’s diverse lineup, from coffee leaders to sweet snacks.[3]
The appointment takes effect March 9, with Williams reporting directly to Mark Smucker, the company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Board.
Smooth Leadership Transition Underway
Gail Hollander, who assumed the CMO role in March 2023, plans to retire after announcing her intentions last year. She will stay on in an advisory capacity through April 30 to ensure continuity.[3]
Hollander oversaw the marketing organization, consumer insights, creative functions, and design during her tenure. Her efforts strengthened Smucker’s brand-building framework and team culture.
Mark Smucker praised her contributions: “Gail has been instrumental in building our world-class brand-building model while supporting our people and culture.”[3]
Aligning with Smucker’s Growth Categories
The J.M. Smucker Co. commands strong positions across North American markets. It leads in coffee, peanut butter, fruit spreads, frozen handhelds, sweet baked goods, dog snacks, and cat food.[1]
- Folgers and Dunkin’ for coffee enthusiasts
- Jif peanut butter and Uncrustables for everyday favorites
- Smucker’s fruit spreads
- Hostess sweet baked goods
- Milk-Bone dog snacks and Meow Mix cat food
Williams expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity. “Throughout my career, I have relentlessly focused on driving sustainable brand growth and building high-performing teams,” she stated. “I am honored to have this opportunity to serve as a steward for this incredible portfolio and to support this team’s continued success in building brands consumers love.”[2]
Vision for Marketing Elevation
Mark Smucker highlighted Williams’ fit for the role. “We are thrilled to welcome Katie to the Company. She brings deep expertise and a strong track record of building leading brands,” he said. “I am confident she will help to advance our portfolio of leading brands forward and elevate our world-class marketing capabilities.”[1]
Her consumer health background complements Smucker’s focus on trusted, everyday products. The company emphasizes quality, ethical operations, and positive societal impact alongside business growth.
Key Takeaways
- Katie Williams assumes CMO duties March 9, succeeding retiring Gail Hollander.
- Over 20 years of experience from Haleon, GSK, Mondelēz, and Kraft Heinz.
- Aims to propel Smucker’s brands like Jif, Folgers, and Hostess to new heights.
As J.M. Smucker navigates competitive food markets, Williams’ arrival signals a commitment to innovative marketing that resonates with families and pet owners alike. What changes do you expect in Smucker’s brand strategies? Tell us in the comments.
