Bringing a Taste of Success: Campbell Soup Exec To Lead Washington Commanders
Washington D.C. is buzzing with the news of a high-profile executive making a strategic move from the world of soup to the gridiron. Mark Clouse, who steered Campbell Soup Company through a period of major transformation, is swapping his chef’s hat for a Washington Commanders jersey. Starting late January, he will take the helm as Team President, navigating the business side of the NFL franchise.
“In Mark we have found a dynamic leader with a stellar track record of guiding organizations to excellence, building brands that connect deeply with consumers, and ultimately delivering best-in-class experiences and lasting memories,” said Josh Harris, Managing Partner of the Washington Commanders.
Harris touted Clouse’s commitment to using the power of sports to unite people, praising his military background and proven leadership in building both strong organizations and thriving communities.
But what qualifies a food industry veteran to lead a professional football team? Clouse brings over three decades of experience in brand building and management to the table. His career trajectory reads like a playbook of success: after graduating from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point where he played basketball, Clouse served as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army.
His post-military career saw him climb the ranks at Kraft Foods, then take the reins as President of North America at Mondelēz before leading Pinnacle Foods and, ultimately, transforming Campbell Soup Company.
Under Clouse’s leadership, Campbell Soup underwent a restructuring, focusing on strategic growth and strengthening its portfolio of iconic brands like Goldfish and Pepperidge Farm. His efforts resulted in industry-leading employee engagement and consistent business success, demonstrating his ability to turn vision into results.
“I am incredibly grateful to Josh Harris and the Washington Commanders ownership group for the opportunity to lead this iconic franchise into a new chapter of growth,” said Clouse. “The Commanders’ passionate fanbase, which has stood by this team for decades, deserves nothing less than our unwavering commitment to excellence. I look forward to supporting ownership, as well as Adam Peters and Dan Quinn, in doing everything in our power to build a championship-caliber organization.”
Clouse’s appointment signals a new era for the Washington Commanders. His experience in cultivating strong brands and fostering community engagement, coupled with his military background and commitment to excellence, offer a promising outlook for both the team and its ardent fans.
The Commanders are banking on Clouse to bring the recipe for success from the soup kitchen to the football field, aiming for a winning combination both on and off the gridiron. Futhermore, with D.C.’s immense passion for their
football team, Clouse assumes the weighty task of reconnecting a fanbase yearning for a championship caliber team.
