Chris Wilkins
About Chris Wilkins
Chris Wilkins serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Benson Hill, a position he has held since 2019. With extensive experience in business development and talent cultivation, he has previously held leadership roles at notable companies such as The Pillsbury Company, TreeHouse Foods, ConAgra Foods, and Land O'Lakes.
Work at Benson Hill
Chris Wilkins has served as Chief Operating Officer at Benson Hill since 2019. In this role, he oversees operations and strategic initiatives within the company. His leadership contributes to the company's focus on innovation in the agricultural sector, particularly in plant-based food solutions. Wilkins' experience in managing operations is instrumental in driving the company's growth and efficiency in the Greater St. Louis Area.
Previous Experience in Food Industry
Prior to his current role, Chris Wilkins held significant positions in the food industry. He was President at TreeHouse Foods from 2016 to 2019, where he managed operations and strategic direction. Before that, he served as President at ConAgra Foods for nine years, from 2007 to 2016. His earlier experience includes working as an Associate Marketing Manager at The Pillsbury Company and as a Senior Marketing Manager at Land O'Lakes.
Education and Expertise
Chris Wilkins earned an AB in Economics from Wabash College, completing his studies from 1990 to 1994. He furthered his education by obtaining an MBA in Marketing from Indiana University Bloomington, studying from 1995 to 1997. His academic background provides a strong foundation for his expertise in business development and marketing strategies.
Leadership and Team Management
Chris Wilkins has extensive experience in leading teams across various organizational sizes. He has managed teams ranging from fewer than seven individuals to over 10,000. His leadership capabilities are evident in his ability to guide teams through growth, acquisition, integration, and divestiture processes, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of business dynamics.