TreeHouse names former Walmart leader, Conagra leader to its board of directors

TreeHouse Foods has added two independent directors to its board, including the current CEO of Michaels and a former consumer goods executive.

Ashley Buchanan is the president and CEO of The Michaels Companies, and also spent a dozen years at Walmart, along with stints in senior merchandising roles, Buchanan served as its chief merchant of e-commerce business and also served as its chief merchant of Sam’s Club. Buchanan oversaw private brand strategy, assortment, pricing, global sourcing, packaging and more in his role at Walmart.

"Private label represents a significant opportunity for both retailers and manufacturers," said Buchanan. "Having led the merchandising and operations functions, as well as the e-commerce strategic initiatives, for Walmart and Sam's Club for a number of years, I see tremendous promise and potential here at TreeHouse and look forward to providing relevant insights and contributions to the board."

Buchanan is joined by the appointment of Jill Rahman, currently serving as chief operating officer for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, a network of more than 700 partner organizations. She also has more than 30 years of experience working with consumer packaged goods companies, notably as the president of the international division at Conagra Brands from 2016 until her retirement in June 2020. 

"My background in marketing, strategic planning, and operations, along with my insights and perspective in consumer packaged goods, are a strong fit for TreeHouse, and I look forward to collaborating with the outstanding senior management team and the board," said Rahman.

With these two appointments, the TreeHouse board expands temporarily to 12 directors. During the company’s 2021 annual meeting, it’s expected that nine directors will stand for reelection.

"We are very pleased to welcome Jill and Ashley to the board. We look forward to the fresh perspectives and insights they will contribute, as they both bring extensive experience in the food and retail industries that will be valuable as the company continues to refine its strategy and deliver shareholder value," said Gary D. Smith, chairman of the board. "The appointments of Ms. Rahman and Mr. Buchanan reinforce our commitment to refreshment and corporate governance as we plan for upcoming retirements in 2021."