Idaho-based Idahoan Foods has appointed Dale Clemiss as CEO, effective March 7.
During his 30-year career, Clemiss shaped brands and consumer-favorite foods, including Campbell’s Chunky soup, Swanson broth, Prego sauce, Birds Eye and Marie Callender’s frozen meals.
Most recently, he served as president of frozen and refrigerated for Conagra Brands, where he led the launch or expansion of platforms for emerging brands such as Gardein and Earth Balance as well as grew established brands such as Hunt’s and Healthy Choice. During his five years with the company, he also led the grocery and snacks division, an entrepreneur-inspired gourmet food team and the integration of several acquisitions.
Clemiss joined Conagra Brands from Campbell Soup Co., where he served in marketing, sales and innovation roles across the company’s foodservice and retail divisions. As the VP of the company’s soup, sauce and meals business, he led a reinvigoration and modernization of the portfolio, attracting new consumers to key categories and increasing usage in existing segments. During his 25 years with Campbell, Clemiss also led foodservice, business development and innovation in Canada and the company’s European and Australian markets.
“In his extensive career in the food industry, Dale has been successful at growing existing brands, accelerating innovation and launching new product lines,” said Rich Porter, Idahoan board chair. “His experience will serve Idahoan well.”
“Idahoan has long been known for bringing high quality 100 percent real Idaho potatoes to consumers in a variety of recipes and formats,” Clemiss said. “I’m excited about the growth opportunities ahead as we continue to innovate and expand our role in meals and beyond.”
Idahoan has been recognized for its innovation and consumer loyalty. In 2019, Idahoan Family Size Mashed Potatoes was named Product of the Year in the world’s largest consumer-voted award, receiving top honors in the side dish category. The honor comes from a survey of 40,000 consumers conducted by Kantar, a global leader in consumer research.
Additionally, Idahoan continues to be America’s Favorite Mashed Potatoes, as confirmed by IRI sales data 52 weeks ending Jan. 23.
Originally from Canada, Clemiss has called the United States home for the last 17 years and will relocate to Idaho Falls from Chicago this spring.
For more information, visit idahoan.com.
