White Plains, NY — Paula Fitzgerald has been appointed as Sabra Dipping Company’s Chief Financial Officer. Fitzgerald, a Fortune 50 experienced financial leader, will oversee Sabra’s financial operations as the company strives to meet compelling consumer interest in hummus and wholesome plant based dips and spreads.
"As we bolster the brand for sustained growth in a category poised for further expansion, Paula's expertise will help strengthen Sabra's leadership position," said Shali Shalit-Shoval, Sabra CEO, in a news release. "Recognized for proven success in sales and marketing finance, business development and customer supply chain, Paula is known for her ability to strategically steer businesses through periods of transformation. She shares Sabra's core values, and I am thrilled to welcome her to the executive team."
Previously, Fitzgerald worked with Pepsico for almost ten years, a company which jointly owns Sabra along with the Strauss Group. At Pepsico, Fitzgerald took on roles such as Senior Director and Walmart Sales Finance for PepsiCo North America Beverages. Fitzgerald also provided brand finance and innovation support for the company's US beverage portfolio of brands across both retail and foodservice channels during her earlier Senior Director of Brand and Innovation Finance role. Prior to working at PepsiCo, Fitzgerald served as Finance Director for Pfizer's Consumer Healthcare Strategy and Business Development team.
"The Sabra brand has fantastic growth potential," said Fitzgerald in a news release. "Best-in-class products, an inspired consumer base, a diverse and remarkable team and a commitment to creating fresh connections within the community are among the hallmarks of Sabra's success. I am enthusiastic to join the brand that introduced hummus to the American consumer and has continued to lead through innovation, consumer engagement and exceptional commitment to product quality."
Sabra currently holds approximately 60% of the hummus category in the US and recently launched "Plants with a Purpose," a community engagement initiative to promote better nutrition by helping alleviate the impact of Food Deserts in the US.
"It is fitting to welcome Paula on International Women's Day as we celebrate the outstanding female executives on our leadership team," continued Shalit-Shoval. "Throughout the day, we will be highlighting the unique contributions of the women on our executive committee and throughout the organization. We're thrilled to have Paula onboard."
Fitzgerald will replace Sabra's former CFO Chris Hall and will be based out of Sabra's NY headquarters serving as CFO for both Sabra and Obela, an international venture between PepsiCo and Strauss Group. Fitzgerald will also serve on the Sabra Obela Board of Directors.
Posted on WholeFoods Magazine Online, 3/10/17
