John Brase Appointed as President and COO of The J.M. Smucker Co.
The Promotion of John Brase at The J.M. Smucker Co.
In a significant move within the food industry, The J.M. Smucker Co. has announced the promotion of John Brase to the position of President and Chief Operating Officer, effective April 30, 2025. This elevation acknowledges Brase’s vital contributions and expansive responsibilities, showcasing the company’s commitment to recognizing and nurturing internal talent.
Brase has been with The J.M. Smucker Co. since 2020, serving as Chief Operating Officer during which time he made notable strides in advancing the company’s business performance. His extensive experience in the consumer goods sector, spanning over three decades, has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge in various aspects such as brand management, marketing, sales, and operations – all crucial for steering a major corporation in today’s competitive landscape.
Mark Smucker, Chair of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, highlighted Brase’s impact on the company by stating, "This promotion acknowledges the breadth of John's responsibilities and the positive impact he's had on our business performance over the past five years." Mark further emphasized the importance of fostering executive talent as the company gears up for future growth.
As President and COO, Brase will oversee multiple key segments, including U.S. Retail Coffee, U.S. Retail Frozen Handheld and Spreads, U.S. Retail Pet Foods, and Sweet Baked Snacks. Moreover, he will also have a hand in managing international operations and shaping strategies that influence the company's sales, operations, and supply chain functions. His leadership is expected to promote further growth and expansion across these diverse business areas.
In his communication regarding the promotion, Brase expressed enthusiasm for his new role, stating, "The Smucker portfolio is synonymous with everyday brands consumers love, and I'm incredibly energized to take on these additional responsibilities. As we further advance our strategy, I look forward to working closely with Mark and the entire team to build on our key growth platforms."
Furthermore, Brase's responsibilities will extend beyond the internal functions of the company, as he will also engage in external tasks and industry associations aimed at amplifying The J.M. Smucker Co.'s influence in the market. His proactive involvement in these areas underscores the company’s forward-thinking approach to leadership and its dedication to remaining at the forefront of the food industry.
The J.M. Smucker Co. is notable for its broad portfolio of beloved brands, including Folgers®, Dunkin'®, Jif®, and many others. The company is committed to delivering quality products that resonate with consumers and pets alike, ensuring that its offerings, whether coffee, baked goods, or pet food, meet the standards of excellence that they have established over the years.
As Brase takes on these new responsibilities, stakeholders can anticipate transformative strategies and initiatives that will further solidify The J.M. Smucker Co.’s position in the industry. With a leader like Brase at the helm, poised to drive growth and operational excellence, the company is set on a path towards sustained success in the coming years.