Mars, Kenvue Among CPGs Prioritizing Data Readiness From the Top Down

As consumer goods companies look to invest in cutting-edge technologies such as agentic AI, having strong data at the core is becoming increasingly important, as is installing leadership that has a deep understanding of how strengthened data practices can support those integrations.

Ash Athawale, SVP of the executive search practice at Robert Half, tells CGT that data and analytics have become a driving force in leadership priorities within the consumer goods industries. 

And while this isn’t a standalone trend that is replacing more traditional roles, data is increasingly integrated into decision-making across the C-suite. Data-driven strategies are leading to expanded roles as companies look to translate insights into operational improvements, he adds.

“In some cases, these responsibilities naturally fold into existing roles. More often, though, they are interwoven through collaboration with IT and data and analytics teams,” he says. 

Major CPGs such as Mars and Kenvue recently installed data-savvy leaders.

There’s still a chance to submit a nomination for CGT’s Data Leadership Awards. The awards recognize leaders who are delivering transformative results with their customers or business partners, or within their organizations. 

Data in the Spotlight

Mars recently promoted two executives, shifting their roles to put data at the center. 

Kristen Daihes, previously the company’s VP of supply chain, is now SVP of analytics, digital and data, overseeing data efforts within the supply chain, commercial and R&D functions, according to LinkedIn. 

Additionally, Mars elevated Abhijit Dasgupta to the role of SVP global demand digital, data and analytics for Mars Snacking and CDIO for the Mars Retail Group. New to the title is the oversight of data and analytics as part of digital transformation efforts within the company’s global sales and marketing functions.

These moves likely build on Mars’ ongoing investment in AI. According to Kaarthikeyan Subramaniam, director of digital experiences platforms, Mars is making its workforce a little more AI-savvy. “We are not just building AI skills here, but I think providing an environment for associates to use AI effectively.”