Laurie Brown
About Laurie Brown
Laurie Brown is the Senior Director of Global Data Governance Services at General Mills, with over two decades of experience in various senior finance roles within the company.
Title and Current Position
Laurie Brown holds the position of Senior Director, Global Data Governance Services at General Mills. In this role, Brown is responsible for overseeing the implementation of global data governance frameworks, ensuring compliance with international data protection regulations. Brown is based in the Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul Area and plays a critical role in the company's digital transformation initiatives, focusing on data-driven decision-making processes.
Extensive Experience at General Mills
Laurie Brown has an extensive career at General Mills, spanning over two decades and encompassing various senior finance roles. Brown has held positions such as Senior Finance Director - Global Integrated Business Planning and International Business Performance Management, Senior Finance Director - International Segment Strategy and FP&A, and Senior Finance Director - US Sales Customer Finance. Brown's vast experience covers strategic planning, performance management, customer finance, marketing services, and consumer insights.
Specialized Roles in Financial Planning
Brown's career at General Mills began as a Finance Analyst in 1993, progressing through roles in supply chain, foodservice, baking division, and snacks channels. Key positions have included Finance Manager roles for US Big G Cereal Division and GMI New Ventures/M&A, as well as Senior Finance Manager for Trade Marketing in the US Pillsbury and Yoplait Divisions. Brown has also directed financial shared services, including promotions finance and expense reporting, demonstrating a strong background in financial planning and analysis.
Educational Background
Laurie Brown holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics with Accounting Emphasis and French from St. Olaf College, completed in 1993. Additionally, Brown achieved a Master of Business Administration (MBA) specializing in Finance from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. These educational credentials have provided a strong foundation for a successful career in finance and data governance.
Contributions to Global Operations
Throughout the tenure at General Mills, Laurie Brown has contributed significantly to the company's global operations. This includes playing a pivotal role in integrated business planning and international business performance management. Brown has also been instrumental in developing customer finance strategies for US sales, managing trade marketing finance, and supporting global data governance efforts. These contributions underscore Brown's expertise in both the financial and operational aspects of a multinational corporation.