Conant and Campbell Recognized for Supporting DiversityCAMDEN, N.J., Mar 22, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) — Campbell Soup Company (NYSE:CPB) President and Chief Executive Officer Douglas R. Conant was named to the InterOrganization Network’s (ION) inaugural list of “Guys Who Get It,” a compilation of 11 leading executives at U.S. public companies who recognize the value of diversity.
ION, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing representation of women on for-profit boards and in executive suites, also released its sixth annual report on the status of women director and executive officers. The reports findings can be accessed at www.IONwomen.org.
“The men on this list of highly influential business leaders were chosen because they have demonstrated a clear understanding of the business case for diverse leadership. They are impressive role models for corporate executives looking to diversify their own leadership teams,” said ION President Rona Wells.
Conant was selected because of the strides Campbell has made under his leadership to develop a diverse and inclusive workplace. Notably, Campbell has increased the number of women in leadership roles, including executive, manufacturing and functional positions, and increased women’s representation on its Board of Directors.
Conant said, “Campbell’s mission is to build the world’s most extraordinary food company by nourishing people’s lives everywhere, every day. Simply put, you cannot build an extraordinary company without an extraordinary and diverse workforce. We focus on this in a very purposeful way, including specific programs designed to win with women. While I am proud of our achievements and the recognition we have received, I am confident that we can do even more to advance women in business.”
Since 2001, Campbell has strived to build a distinctive and innovative culture that embraces risk taking, innovation, trust, performance and accountability. Women have been integral to creating that culture and driving Campbell’s business performance.
Campbell also was recently recognized with the 2010 Catalyst Award for its success in advance women to leadership roles and with the Gallup Great Workplace Award for 2010 as one of the most productive and engaged workforces in the world.
Additionally, “Campbell’s Select Harvest” soups were ranked as the top new food and beverage product of 2009, according to Information Resources Inc.(IRI). These soups were created after extensive market research that asked women what they looked for when choosing ready-to-serve soups. According to the IRI, “Campbell’s Select Harvest” soups generated $202 million in sales in its first year on the market.
About Campbell Soup Company
Campbell Soup Company is a global manufacturer and marketer of high-quality foods and simple meals, including soup, baked snacks, and healthy beverages. Founded in 1869, the company has a portfolio of market-leading brands, including “Campbell’s,” “Pepperidge Farm,” “Arnott’s,” and “V8.” For more information on the company, visit Campbell’s website at www.campbellsoup.com.
About The InterOrganization Network
The InterOrganization Network (www.IONwomen.org), is a national nonprofit organization representing approximately 10,000 women dedicated to increasing representation of women on for-profit boards and in executive suites. ION creates a national voice for its 14 regional member organizations to influence, build awareness and expand opportunities and connections. ION’s founding sponsor is KPMG LLP, the audit, tax and advisory firm and U.S. member firm of KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”).
SOURCE: Campbell Soup Company
Campbell Soup CompanyAnthony Sanzio (Media)856-968-4390orJennifer Driscoll (Analysts)856-342-6081