McIlhenny Company, the US-based manufacturer of Tabasco sauce, has appointed Nestlé executive Adam Graves as its new CEO.
He replaces Harold Osborn, who retired in April after 25 years with the family-owned business, including the past five years as CEO.
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In a statement yesterday (2 February), McIlhenny said Graves has a “proven track record” of growing brands in the consumer-packaged goods industry.
Graves, who joined the company on 26 January, spent 20 years at Nestlé, with roles across the Americas.
Most recently, he was president of Nestle’s pizza and snacking division in the US, which sells brands including DiGiorno, Tombstone and Hot Pockets.
Earlier in his career, Graves held roles including president at Nestle Waters Canada and general manager of Purina Pet Care Latin America.
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By GlobalDataChristian Brown, the executive chairman of McIlhenny Company, said: “Adam’s success in leading major powerhouse food brands and his commitment to building high-performing teams inside a culture of innovation and collaboration make him an ideal choice to lead McIlhenny Company at this exciting juncture.”
McIlhenny was founded by Tabasco creator Edmund McIlhenny in 1868 on Avery Island, Louisiana, and does not reveal details of its turnover nor financial performance.
Commenting on his appointment, Graves said: “Leading McIlhenny Company and the iconic Tabasco brand is the role of a lifetime. The brand’s 158 years of experience defining the hot sauce category, inspiring consumer connection, and unmatched global footprint, in conjunction with the company’s long history of prioritising its incredible team and unique culture, make this the most exciting opportunity of my career.”
