Kimberly A. Nelson

Kim Nelson is a seasoned executive with a wealth of experience in the consumer packaged goods industry. She has accumulated nearly 30 years of professional expertise, particularly during her extensive tenure at General Mills. Her career journey showcases a solid educational background, notable achievements, and a diverse career path that highlights her leadership and strategic capabilities.

Educational Background

Kim began her academic journey at Georgetown University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in International Relations and Affairs from 1980 to 1984. Furthering her education, she attained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Marketing from Columbia Business School between 1987 and 1988. Alongside formal education, Kim also engaged in executive management courses at Harvard Kennedy School, enriching her understanding of public affairs.

Career at General Mills

Starting in 1988, Kim’s career at General Mills spanned various roles in marketing across divisions like Big G Cereal, Snacks, and Yoplait Yogurt. For 12 years, she honed her skills in brand management, marketing strategy, and product development. Between 2000 and 2005, she served as Vice President of the Meals Division and Big G Cereal Division, overseeing prominent brands such as Cheerios and Wheaties. Here, Kim was responsible for business strategy, advertising, and new product initiatives.

She advanced to the position of Senior Vice President of the Snack Foods Division in 2005, leading the fastest-growing division at General Mills with a remarkable annual sales growth of 10% and profit growth of 14%. Later, from 2010 to 2018, Kim held the role of Senior Vice President of External Relations, where she reported directly to the Chairman and CEO. In this role, she led global initiatives, executed rebranding strategies, and modernized corporate communications and sustainability efforts.

Independent Board Director Positions

After a distinguished tenure at General Mills, Kim took on roles as an Independent Board Director for several major organizations.

• She started with Tate & Lyle in July 2019, a UK-based food ingredient supplier.
• In October 2020, she joined Cummins Inc., a global leader in power solutions.
• Subsequently, she became an Independent Board Director at Colgate-Palmolive in March 2021, contributing to the global oral care, personal care, and pet nutrition company.
• Most recently, she was appointed as an Independent Board Director at The Wallace Foundation in October 2023.

Professional Skills and Certifications

Kim’s professional journey is marked by her strategic ingenuity in brand development, marketing communications, and crisis management. Additionally, she holds a Global Competent Boards Designation and Certificate (GCB.D) with a focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), which she earned in August 2023.

Fluent in French, Kim’s career is a testament to her dedication, innovative mindset, and leadership abilities. She has continuously driven growth, fostered inclusive cultures, and guided companies towards sustainability and profitability. Her diverse roles and extensive experience make her a valuable asset to any organization she serves.