David Foster

Career at Colgate-Palmolive

David Foster currently serves as the Chief Information Officer at Colgate-Palmolive, located in Piscataway, New Jersey. His journey at Colgate-Palmolive has been marked by a series of significant roles and achievements. Before becoming CIO in January 2023, he was the Vice President of Global Application Development, a position he held from July 2016 to January 2023. In this role, David was responsible for overseeing and enhancing global applications to meet the company’s strategic objectives.

Early Roles and Leadership at Colgate-Palmolive

David's tenure at Colgate-Palmolive began even earlier. From January 2012 to January 2023, he also managed responsibilities as the Vice President for Global Applications and the Americas Region. These roles involved significant leadership components, where he was instrumental in merging technology with business strategies to drive global growth. David's role as Worldwide Director of Global Application Development, which he held from January 2014 to July 2016, further solidified his expertise and contributions to the global operations of the company.

Before these senior roles, David held multiple director positions within Colgate-Palmolive. He was the Director of Finance Systems from July 2010 to January 2014 and the Director of Demand Systems from January 2009 to June 2010. His early years at Colgate saw him as the Associate Director of Colgate Business Planning from May 2006 to January 2009.

Industry Experience Before Colgate-Palmolive

Before embarking on his successful career at Colgate-Palmolive, David gained initial industry experience as a developer at DISC, where he worked from January 1987 to January 1996. This foundational technical role laid the groundwork for his subsequent leadership in IT and business applications.

Educational Background

David’s educational background includes an MBA in Finance and Operations from the NYU Stern School of Business, which he completed between January 1998 and January 2004. He also holds a Bachelor's degree in Engineering from Dartmouth College, earned from January 1983 to January 1987. His educational pursuits have provided him with a strong technical and strategic foundation to manage complex information systems and business processes.

Commitment to Continuous Learning

To keep up with the evolving landscape of technology and business, David has also pursued further certifications. Notably, he completed the XACS302 - Cybersecurity and Executive Strategy course from Stanford Online, which will be issued in January 2024. In September 2022, he earned a certification in AI Aware and Analytics Literacy from Colgate-Palmolive, highlighting his commitment to continuous learning and adapting to emerging trends.

Skills and Expertise

Throughout his career, David has developed a wide array of skills in areas such as SAP, FMCG, consumer products, program and business management, and leadership. His expertise extends to CRM, strategy, team leadership, business processes, ERP, supply chain, and business intelligence. These skills have played a pivotal role in his ability to lead cross-functional teams and implement strategies that drive technological and business efficacy.

Peer and Colleague Recommendations

David Foster is highly recommended by his peers and colleagues for his professionalism, knowledge, and integrity. Chris Wiesen, who worked with David at different companies, particularly commends him for his passion and ability to leverage technology for the betterment of Colgate-Palmolive’s Trade Promotion Management.

About Colgate-Palmolive

Colgate-Palmolive, where David has spent a substantial and impactful part of his career, is a renowned global consumer products company specializing in Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care, and Pet Nutrition. The company is known for its commitment to sustainability and community wellbeing and employs about 34,000 people worldwide.

Conclusion

David Foster’s career trajectory at Colgate-Palmolive is a testament to his dedication, leadership, and ability to innovate and drive significant technological advancements within the company.