Conagra Names John Brase CEO
Conagra Brands has hired a top leader. Beginning June 1, John Brase will take on the role of president and CEO and join the company's board.
Brase takes over for Sean Connolly, who is stepping down on May 31 after more than a decade of leadership and navigating volatile markets amid the global pandemic and, more recently, tariff-related headwinds and other supply chain disruptions.
Connolly highlighted several business opportunities during the company's recent earnings call, including the growing popularity of health and wellness products and Gen Z's prioritization of bold flavors and contemporary cuisines. As Brase takes on the leadership position, he will inherit what Connolly calls "an incredibly diverse" consumer segment that is not monolithic and has taken to protein- and fiber-forward snacks and meals.
More About Brase
Brase has more than 35 years of consumer goods experience, having worked across strategic portfolio management, brand building and business operations. He was most recently the president and CEO of The J.M. Smucker Co. In that role, he oversaw the company's U.S. retail, international and away from home businesses.
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Before that, he spent three decades at Procter & Gamble, rising in rank to SVP and general manager of the company's North America family care business.
Conagra board member Richard Lenny said Brase was selected to lead the company due to his track record of driving growth, building brands across multiple CPG categories, leveraging advanced business systems and leading with inclusive, results-driven cultures.
