Steve Cahillane: Packaged Food’s Head of State
Experience goes a long way when it comes to leading multinational food companies, and few executives have navigated more industry-defining change than Steve Cahillane. During his six-year tenure at Kellogg, he oversaw the company’s transformation into Kellanova and WK Kellogg Co., then helped guide Kellanova through its blockbuster acquisition by Mars. That track record made him a natural choice to take the helm at Kraft Heinz, where he stepped in last December amid speculation about a potential breakup of the company. Rather than rushing toward another split, Cahillane reversed course to focus on strengthening the business, improving profitability and positioning Kraft Heinz for long-term growth. Having now led two of the food industry’s most iconic companies through periods of enormous transition, Cahillane has become one of the sector’s most trusted hands when the stakes are highest.