Jim Kilts is a renowned leader in the consumer industry, with over 50 years of experience leading a range of companies and iconic brands. Prior to founding Centerview Capital in 2006, he served as Chairman, CEO and President of The Gillette Company, where he successfully reinvigorated the business and oversaw its sale to The Procter & Gamble Company, subsequently becoming Vice Chairman of the merged company’s board. Before Jim joined The Gillette Company, the company’s sales had been flat for four years, and it had missed earnings estimates for 14 consecutive quarters. Jim took steps to rebuild the management team, cut costs and reinvest the savings in innovation and marketing. During his tenure as CEO, the company rejoined the top ranks of consumer products companies with sales increasing an average of 9% each year. The Gillette Company’s share price appreciated 110% during this time period, while the S&P 500 declined 3%. The Harvard Business Review cited Jim’s leadership as the driving force behind Gillette’s turnaround. Prior to The Gillette Company, Jim served as President and CEO of The Nabisco Company leading up to its acquisition by The Philip Morris Companies. Before joining Nabisco, Jim was an Executive Vice President of The Philip Morris Companies and headed the Worldwide Food group, where he was responsible for integrating Kraft and General Foods and for shaping the group’s domestic and international strategy. Earlier executive leadership roles include President of Kraft USA and Oscar Mayer. Jim began his career with General Foods Corporation.

Owing to Jim’s successes across the consumer industry, numerous companies seek his business expertise and advice. Jim currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of The Simply Good Foods Company and Advantage Solutions. He also serves as a director of Ole Smoky, Viatris and Harvest Hill Beverage Company. He formerly served as a director of Nielsen Holdings PLC (as Chairman), MetLife, Pfizer, Unifi, Big Heart Pet Brands (as Chairman), MeadWestvaco, The New York Times Company, May Department Stores, Whirlpool Corporation, the Grocery Manufacturers Association (as Chairman) and Delta Airlines. He is also a former member of Citigroup’s International Advisory Board. Jim holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Knox College and an MBA degree from the University of Chicago.