Whirlpool Corporation Appoints Judith Buckner to Board of Directors to Enhance Corporate Governance
Whirlpool Corporation Welcomes Judith Buckner to Its Board of Directors
In a significant move to bolster its leadership, Whirlpool Corporation has appointed Judith K. Buckner to its Board of Directors, effective immediately. Buckner, who serves as the president of Reynolds Cooking & Baking, will also be active on the corporate governance and nominating committee as well as the human resources committee.
Marc Bitzer, CEO and chairman of Whirlpool, expressed enthusiasm about Buckner's appointment. "Judith is a highly respected leader who knows how to create a positive impact in all aspects of the business. We are excited to have her joining our board," said Bitzer. He emphasized that her extensive background in the kitchen product category will be invaluable for Whirlpool as they strive to enhance consumer experiences at home.
Buckner's impressive track record in the industry is underscored by her recent role as president of Reynolds Cooking & Baking, a position she has held since 2022. Before that, she was at the forefront of Reynolds Consumer Products, serving as the president of the Presto Products business unit, and she played crucial roles in business transformation and engineering operations.
Beginning her career at Reynolds in 2000 as an engineering manager, Buckner has consistently advanced through the ranks, embracing various positions that reflect her growing responsibilities in manufacturing and operations. Her academic credentials include a degree in chemical engineering from Purdue University, which provides her with the technical proficiency needed to excel in leadership roles within this sector.
About Whirlpool Corporation
Founded in 1911, Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) is a leading global manufacturer of home appliances and is dedicated to improving life at home for consumers worldwide. As the only major U.S.-based manufacturer of kitchen and laundry appliances, Whirlpool continually focuses on innovation to meet the evolving needs of its customers. The company's well-known brand portfolio includes top names such as Whirlpool, KitchenAid, JennAir, Maytag, Amana, Brastemp, Consul, and InSinkErator. In 2024, Whirlpool reported approximately $17 billion in annual sales, with nearly 90% of sales generated within the Americas. The company employs around 44,000 individuals and operates 40 manufacturing and technology research centers across the globe.
With Buckner on board, Whirlpool is poised to enhance its strategic direction, particularly in product development and market expansion. Buckner's insight into consumer trends and preferences promises to complement the company's ambitious goals to innovate and improve consumer life, sustaining its legacy as a household name.
Conclusion
Judith K. Buckner's addition to the Board of Directors signifies Whirlpool's commitment to fortifying its leadership with diverse expertise. As the home appliance sector continues to evolve, Buckner's experience will likely play a pivotal role in steering the company's future endeavors.