PARK CITY, UT — Whole grain breakfast and snacking company Kodiak announced the appointment of Valerie Oswalt as CEO.
“It is a privilege to lead a fast-growing, purpose-driven food company built on a mission to inspire healthier eating and active living,” said Valerie Oswalt. “I am inspired by the culture that has been cultivated by Kodiak’s founders and executive team since its inception and look forward to continuing to build upon it.”
Oswalt will succeed Joel Clark, co-founder and current CEO, and Cameron Smith, co-founder and president. The co-founders will transition into roles on Kodiak’s board of directors.
“Valerie’s people-first leadership style and deep industry experience uniquely position her to lead Kodiak into its next phase of growth,” said Joel Clark, Kodiak’s co-founder and current CEO. “I’m thrilled to pass the baton to someone our team unanimously felt was the right person for the job. Someone who not only will continue building upon the foundation we’ve laid at Kodiak but also become a member of the Kodiak family for years to come.”
This appointment is the start of a new chapter for the company and builds on the past 18 months of growth and development including a major investment from L Catterton, and the addition of Cory Bayers, former head of global marketing for Patagonia, and actor/producer Zac Efron to Kodiak.
“Joel, Cameron and the rest of Kodiak’s exceptional leadership team have built Kodiak into a powerful and deeply resonant brand,” said Matt Leeds, partner at L Catterton. “It’s a testament to Joel and Cameron that Kodiak can attract someone as amazing as Valerie to the business, and her vision and leadership leave Kodiak well-positioned to build on this foundation for years to come.”
Oswalt was previously at Campbell Soup Co., most recently as president of its snacks division and as an EVP. Prior to Campbell, she held roles as CEO of Century Snacks, a privately held trail mix and nut products company, and other executive positions at Mondelez International and Kraft Foods.
