KeHE Distributors LLC has announced the addition of G. Scott Uzzell to its board of directors. Uzzell, who is currently the corporate VP and general manager of Nike North America, brings a wealth of experience from his tenure at notable companies including Converse Inc. and Coca-Cola. This strategic appointment aims to enhance KeHE’s growth in the consumer packaged goods sector.
Uzzell’s career has been marked by significant leadership roles. At Nike North America, he has been part of the executive operating team since June 2023, and his insights will be pivotal for KeHE’s strategic developments as he stays through November 2024. Prior to his role at Nike, he served as president and CEO of Converse Inc. for four years, during which he led global operations and drove key initiatives.
One of Uzzell’s most impressive accomplishments occurred during his time at The Coca-Cola Company. As president and general manager of the Venturing & Emerging Brands Group (VEB), he guided the development of high-growth brands like Honest Tea, Health-Ade Kombucha, and fairlife milk. This experience in nurturing emerging brands aligns perfectly with KeHE’s focus on natural and organic products. Under Uzzell’s leadership, the VEB identified and invested in trend-forward brands, showcasing his ability to recognize market opportunities. Moreover, he played a crucial role in facilitating merger and acquisition deals that helped Coca-Cola diversify its product offerings.
Welcoming Uzzell, KeHE President and CEO Deb Conklin expressed enthusiasm about the contributions he will make to the board. “His deep understanding of the consumer packaged goods industry, coupled with his passion for purpose-driven brands, aligns perfectly with our company’s mission. His expertise will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and grow,” Conklin noted. This strategic move demonstrates KeHE’s commitment to enhancing its governance structure as it navigates the competitive landscape of food distribution.
Uzzell’s appointment follows a comprehensive nationwide candidate search, a reflection of KeHE’s dedication to leadership excellence. He boasts a solid educational background, holding a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and finance from Florida A&M University and an MBA from the University of Chicago. In addition to his role at KeHE, Uzzell has served on the board of S.C. Johnson & Sons since 2019, actively participating in the company’s audit and compensation committee.
KeHE has also welcomed another valuable addition recently. In October, Kurt Barton, VP and CFO of Tractor Supply Co., was appointed to the board of directors. Tractor Supply Co. is recognized as the largest rural lifestyle retailer in the United States. Barton is positioned on the finance committee and chairs the audit committee, further strengthening the financial oversight of KeHE.
Based in Naperville, Illinois, KeHE is the largest distributor of natural and organic, specialty, and fresh products in North America. The company serves more than 31,000 natural food stores, grocery stores, e-commerce retailers, and specialty product retailers. Recognized as a Certified B Corporation, KeHE emphasizes social and environmental responsibility. The company boasts over 6,800 employee-owners, highlighting its commitment to a collaborative and engaged workforce.
The addition of strategic executives like Uzzell and Barton indicates KeHE’s ambition to remain at the forefront of industry innovations, particularly in the growing sector of natural and organic food products. As consumer preferences continue to shift towards health-conscious and environmentally friendly options, companies like KeHE must ensure their leadership is equipped to adapt to these changes effectively.
This strengthening of the board is not just about enhancing corporate governance; it reflects a broader strategy to continue KeHE’s growth trajectory. Emphasizing innovation, purpose, and employee engagement, the company is poised to harness Uzzell’s considerable experience to better meet the evolving demands of consumers and the market at large.
As KeHE adjusts its direction with new leadership, the industry will be watching closely for new initiatives and strategic moves that will shape the future of food distribution.