General Mills appoints Karen Jenkins as New Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand

General Mills, a global leader in the food industry, has announced the appointment of Karen Jenkins as the new Managing Director for its Australia and New Zealand operations. With over 25 years of extensive experience in the food sector, Jenkins is set to lead the company’s continued growth and innovation in the region.

Karen Jenkins brings a rich and varied career to her new role, having worked across multiple functions and regions within General Mills. Her journey with the company began in Australia, where she started in marketing before expanding her expertise into category management and sales. Jenkins's ability to drive business growth and adapt to new challenges quickly became apparent as she took on increasingly senior roles across different markets.

Her career trajectory saw her relocate to New Zealand, where she took on the role of Managing Director. In this position, she demonstrated strong leadership and a keen understanding of market dynamics, which led to her next role as Sales Director in the United Kingdom. During her time in the UK, Jenkins was instrumental in steering the company through the complexities of Brexit and the global pandemic. Her leadership during these turbulent times highlighted her capacity to navigate uncertainty and deliver results, solidifying her reputation as a resilient and strategic leader.

Jenkins returned to Australia three years ago, taking on the role of Sales Director for the Australia and New Zealand markets. Her impact was immediate and profound. According to General Mills, during her tenure, Jenkins played a crucial role in defining the customer and channel portfolio roles for the Australian market. She also enhanced both internal and external engagement, leading to significant business outcomes.

Earlier this year, Jenkins was globally recognized by General Mills for her outstanding contributions to the business. She received the prestigious Business Impact Champion award during the company’s Global International Women’s Day celebrations. This award is a testament to her leadership and the tangible impact she has had on the Australian business, further cementing her reputation as a top-tier executive within the company.

In her new role as Managing Director, Jenkins is poised to continue driving General Mills' success in Australia and New Zealand. "I am excited to take on the role of Managing Director for General Mills Australia and New Zealand," Jenkins said. "Our region has seen significant growth and innovation, and I am eager to continue building on this success."

Jenkins is particularly focused on leveraging the company's strong portfolio of products, which includes household names like Old El Paso™ Mexican food, Latina™ Fresh + PROTEIN chilled pasta, and premium brands such as Haagen-Dazs™. Under her leadership, these brands are expected to see continued growth and innovation, catering to the evolving tastes and preferences of consumers in the region.

"Our portfolio of beloved products is well-positioned in growth-facing categories," Jenkins noted. "We have exciting new developments, such as the Latina™ Fresh + PROTEIN chilled pasta range, innovative snacks, and our timeless classics in baking and premium ice cream with Haagen-Dazs™. There is truly 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."

Beyond driving business growth, Jenkins is also committed to maintaining General Mills' focus on sustainability and social responsibility. The company has long been a leader in these areas, with a strong emphasis on making a positive impact on both people and the planet. Jenkins's leadership is expected to further these initiatives, ensuring that General Mills continues to be a force for good in the industry.

"It’s a privilege to continue the journey with a team of remarkable and hard-working people at a workplace that was recently recognized as a Great Place to Work® for the fifth consecutive year," Jenkins said. Her commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture aligns with General Mills' ongoing efforts to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all employees.

Jenkins succeeds Matt Salter in leading the Australia and New Zealand business. Salter, who has been instrumental in shaping the company’s success in the region, has moved into a new role as Vice President of Marketing for the General Mills International business segment. His departure marks the end of a significant chapter for the company, but the transition is expected to be smooth, thanks to Jenkins’s extensive experience and deep understanding of the business.

Salter’s move to a global role underscores the importance of the Australian and New Zealand markets within General Mills' broader international strategy. With Jenkins at the helm, the company is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation in these key markets.