General Mills New ANZ MD

General Mills

AUSTRALIA | General Mills has appointed Karen Jenkins as its new Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand.

Jenkins brings an extensive 25-year background in the food industry and a wealth of experience driving business growth and innovation across General Mills internationally.

After starting her career in Australian marketing, she gained cross-functional experience in category management and sales. She then expanded her commercial expertise by relocating to New Zealand to lead as Managing Director before heading to the U.K., where she took up the Sales Director role.

In the U.K., she successfully navigated the challenges during Brexit and COVID-19. She returned to Australia three years ago to take on the role of Sales Director for Australia and New Zealand.

During her tenure, Jenkins has clearly defined Australia’s customer and channel portfolio roles and driven outstanding internal and external engagement.

Earlier this year, she also received global recognition from General Mills for a Business Impact Award for her exemplary leadership impact on Australian businesses at the Global International Women’s Day celebrations, where she was presented with the Business Impact Champion award.

Her extensive experience, strategic vision and engaging leadership will continue to drive success in her new role as Managing Director for General Mills in Australia and New Zealand.

“I am excited to take on the role of Managing Director for General Mills Australia and New Zealand. Our region has seen significant growth and innovation, and I am eager to continue building on this success,” said Jenkins.

“We have an exceptional team, and together, we will focus on driving further growth and continuing to make food the world loves. There is something for everyone, and I look forward to maintaining this momentum while ensuring the business continues its focus on standing for good for people and the planet.”

General Mills' portfolio of products includes categories like Old El Paso Mexican food, with new developments such as the Latina Fresh + PROTEIN chilled pasta range, innovative snacks, baking classics, and premium ice cream with Haagen-Dazs.

“It’s a privilege to continue the journey with a team of remarkable and hard-working people at a workplace recently recognised as a Great Place to Work for the fifth consecutive year.”

Jenkins took over the position from Matt Salter, who moved into a position as Vice President of Marketing across the General Mills International business segment.

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