The Campbell’s Company announced today that Mick Beekhuizen has been elected by the Board of Directors as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective February 1, 2025. Beekhuizen will succeed Mark Clouse, who is stepping down as CEO to take on a leadership role with the NFL’s Washington Commanders. Beekhuizen, currently serving as President of the company’s Meals & Beverages division, will also join the Campbell’s Board of Directors.
Keith McLoughlin, Chair of the Board, emphasized the company’s robust succession planning process. “The Board has consistently prioritized a strong leadership pipeline, and we’re fortunate to have talented executives ready to lead. Mick is an exceptional leader with a proven track record of success. We’re confident in his ability to continue driving the strategic initiatives that have delivered consistent results and created significant value for shareholders,” McLoughlin stated.
A Legacy of Leadership and Growth
Beekhuizen will become Campbell’s 15th CEO in its 155-year history. Since joining the company in September 2019 as Chief Financial Officer, he has established himself as a key player in Campbell’s growth and transformation. In 2022, Beekhuizen transitioned to his current role, overseeing the $5.3 billion Meals & Beverages division, where he demonstrated financial, commercial, and operational expertise.
One of Beekhuizen’s notable achievements includes his leadership in the $2.7 billion acquisition and integration of Sovos Brands, Inc., which added high-growth brands like Rao’s to Campbell’s portfolio. As CFO, he was instrumental in driving corporate strategy and leading the company’s finance functions, including tax, treasury, investor relations, and IT.
Before joining Campbell’s, Beekhuizen served as Executive Vice President and CFO of Chobani from 2016 to 2019, contributing significantly to the company’s expansion. Earlier in his career, he held executive roles at Education Management Corporation and Goldman Sachs.
“It is a tremendous honor to have been chosen to lead this iconic company,” Beekhuizen said. “I am energized by the opportunity to work with the Campbell’s team to build on the success we’ve achieved and accelerate our strategy to drive strong performance and employee engagement.”
Mark Clouse’s Transformational Leadership
Mark Clouse, who has served as Campbell’s CEO since January 2019, will step down on January 31, 2025, to become President of the Washington Commanders. Clouse’s tenure at Campbell’s has been transformative, marked by a reshaping of the company’s portfolio and a renewed focus on category-leading brands.
“Mark has been a transformational leader over the past six years, positioning Campbell’s for sustained success,” said McLoughlin. “He has assembled a top-tier leadership team and built one of the strongest portfolios in the food industry. His contributions will have a lasting impact on our business and culture.”
Under Clouse’s leadership, Campbell’s delivered impressive business results, revitalized its foundational capabilities, and created a highly engaged workplace culture. Clouse made soup a cornerstone of Campbell’s growth strategy, revitalized its supply chain as a competitive advantage, and executed the high-profile Sovos Brands acquisition in 2024.
Reflecting on his time at Campbell’s, Clouse expressed pride in the company’s transformation. “We’ve built what I believe is the best portfolio in food, and Campbell’s is better positioned than ever for sustainable growth. While leaving was not an easy decision, the opportunity to join the Washington Commanders represents a unique blend of my passions for business and sports. Campbell’s will always hold a special place in my heart,” he said.
Looking Ahead
As Campbell’s prepares for this leadership transition, the company remains committed to its strategic vision. Beekhuizen’s leadership will build upon the strong foundation laid by Clouse and the broader leadership team, ensuring continued growth and innovation.
Campbell’s will host a conference call to discuss its first-quarter fiscal 2025 earnings results on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Participants can dial in using the toll-free number (800) 715-9871 in the U.S. and Canada, or +1 (646) 307-1963 for international callers, using access code 7969519. A live audio webcast and accompanying slide presentation will also be available.
This leadership transition marks an exciting new chapter for Campbell’s, as the company continues to strengthen its position as a leader in the food industry while honoring its 155-year legacy.
