Former J.M. Smucker president John Brase named CEO of Conagra Brands

Former J.M. Smucker and P&G executive John Brase is the new president and CEO of Conagra Brands Inc.

Brase will take up the position on June 1, succeeding Sean Connolly, who is stepping down at the end of May.

With more than 35 years of consumer goods experience, Brase most recently served as president and chief operating officer of The J.M. Smucker Co. 

There, he oversaw the company’s U.S. retail, international and Away from Home businesses, as well as its sales, operations and supply chain functions. 

Prior to that, Brase spent around 30 years at Procter & Gamble (P&G), rising the ranks to senior vice president and general manager of the company’s North America Family Care business. 

"John's track record of driving top- and bottom-line performance, building brands across multiple consumer-packaged goods categories, leveraging advantaged business systems and leading inclusive, results-driven cultures is exceptional, and we are confident Conagra will thrive under his leadership," said Richard H. Lenny, independent chair of Conagra's board of directors, in a press release. "The decision to appoint John as Conagra's next leader follows our thoughtful approach to succession planning, including discussions with Sean, and our determination that now is the right time for this leadership transition."

Base, who will also join Conagra’s board of directors, added that it was an “honour” to lead the company.

"I've long admired what Sean and the team have built, and I look forward to accelerating the company's track record of driving strong revenue growth, strengthening margins and generating robust cash flow to unlock the full potential of its brands and deliver meaningful value for consumers and shareholders,” Brase said.