Kodiak appoints ex-Campbell exec. as CEO

Kodiak names Valerie Oswalt as its new CEO. Oswalt will succeed co-founder and incumbent CEO, Joel Clark, and co-founder and president, Cameron Smith, who will both transition into roles on Kodiak’s board of directors.

“It is a privilege to lead a fast-growing, purpose-driven food company built on a mission to inspire healthier eating and active living,” said Oswalt. “Kodiak was founded with the belief that everyone involved is a part of the greater goal to inspire those around them to enjoy real, nourishing food, get outside, and give their best no matter what the situation. I am inspired by the culture that has been cultivated by Kodiak’s founders and executive team since its inception and look forward to continuing to build upon it.”

Oswalt joins Kodiak from Campbell Soup Company where she was the president of the Snacks division and a Campbell executive vice-president since 2020. Prior to Campbell, she served as CEO of Century Snacks, a privately held trail mix and nut products company, where she led the turnaround of the business with a portfolio of more than 400 branded, private label, and commercial products. Prior to Century Snacks, she worked in executive positions at Mondelez International and Kraft Foods.

“Valerie’s people-first leadership style and deep industry experience uniquely position her to lead Kodiak into its next phase of growth,” said Clark. “I’m thrilled to pass the baton to someone our team unanimously felt was the right person for the job. Someone who not only will continue building upon the foundation we’ve laid at Kodiak, but also become a member of the Kodiak family for years to come. I’m excited to continue being part of the company’s story as a member of the board.”