Michele Buck’s career is a remarkable example of leadership in the fast-moving consumer goods industry, a sector where innovation, transformation, and resilience are critical for success. As the Chairman of the Board and the 12th President and Chief Executive Officer of The Hershey Company, Buck has become a key figure not only in the growth of one of the world’s most iconic confectionery brands but also as a powerful role model for women in business. Her journey from humble beginnings in central Pennsylvania to leading a multi-billion-dollar global company reflects a career filled with vision, perseverance, and a deep commitment to people-centered leadership.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in central Pennsylvania, Buck’s upbringing gave her a strong foundation of values and work ethic that would serve her throughout her career. From an early age, she displayed a curiosity for business and leadership. Her academic path reflected her determination to build a solid foundation for her career. Buck attended Shippensburg University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree. This period was critical in shaping her worldview and instilling in her a desire to achieve excellence.
To deepen her understanding of business strategy and management, Buck pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her education not only equipped her with the technical knowledge needed to thrive in the corporate world but also enhanced her leadership capabilities, enabling her to approach challenges with a blend of analytical precision and a people-centered mindset.
Early Career at Kraft and PepsiCo
Before joining Hershey in 2005, Buck spent 17 years building an impressive career at two major consumer goods giants: Kraft Foods (which later became part of Mondelēz) and PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay division. Her experience at these companies laid the foundation for her eventual role at Hershey, where she would lead some of the company’s most pivotal transformations.
At Kraft/Nabisco, Buck held various senior leadership positions. Her responsibilities were vast and gave her a 360-degree view of the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. She gained deep experience in managing both product innovation and operations, areas that would be crucial to her later success at Hershey. Similarly, at PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay division, Buck demonstrated her ability to navigate a highly competitive market, focusing on efficiency and growth while continuously pushing the envelope of what was possible in a rapidly changing industry.
Leadership at Hershey
Buck joined Hershey in 2005, bringing her expertise and vision to one of the most iconic confectionery companies in the world. Over the years, she took on increasingly significant roles within the company, each marked by her strategic and transformative approach to business.
One of her earliest roles at Hershey was as Chief Growth Officer, where she spearheaded initiatives aimed at expanding the company’s market presence. This role was critical as Hershey navigated the rapidly evolving consumer landscape, with Buck leading efforts to align the company’s portfolio with shifting consumer preferences.
As her career progressed, she took on the role of President, U.S., where she oversaw the largest segment of Hershey’s business. Under her leadership, the company enhanced its focus on core brands, while also innovating in product development and marketing to stay ahead in a competitive market.
In 2017, Buck was appointed CEO, becoming the first woman to lead the company in its over 125-year history. This was a significant milestone, not only for Hershey but also for the broader business world, as Buck joined the small, but growing, ranks of women leading Fortune 500 companies. Her leadership style, marked by collaboration, inclusivity, and a relentless focus on growth, allowed her to tackle challenges head-on while setting the company on a path to long-term success.
Transforming Hershey’s Business
Under Buck’s leadership, Hershey has undergone a significant transformation. Her tenure has been characterized by a dual focus: maintaining the legacy of Hershey’s beloved brands, such as Reese’s, Kit Kat, and Hershey’s Kisses, while simultaneously driving innovation in new product categories.
One of her major successes was in expanding Hershey’s portfolio beyond traditional confectionery. Recognizing the shift in consumer preferences towards healthier and more diversified snack options, Buck led the company into new territory with acquisitions and product innovations in the snacking sector. This strategy positioned Hershey not just as a chocolate company but as a broader player in the snack industry.
Another hallmark of her leadership has been a strong focus on digital transformation. Understanding that consumer habits were increasingly shifting online, Buck led Hershey through a digital overhaul that strengthened its e-commerce capabilities and data-driven marketing strategies, ensuring that Hershey remained competitive in the digital age.
A People-Centered Leader
While Buck has proven herself to be a sharp business strategist, what truly sets her apart is her people-first approach. She has long been an advocate for creating environments where people can thrive and bring their best selves to work. Her leadership philosophy is built around empowering others, harnessing their strengths, and embracing diverse perspectives. This approach has helped foster a culture of collaboration and innovation at Hershey.
Buck’s leadership extends beyond the walls of Hershey. She has made significant contributions as a board member at New York Life and has been recognized as a trailblazer for women in business. In 2023, she was honored by Fortune magazine as one of the Most Powerful Women, a recognition she has earned multiple times throughout her career. Additionally, she was a recipient of the prestigious Deming Cup, which honors leaders for excellence in operational management and continuous improvement.
Balancing Family and Leadership
In addition to her demanding professional role, Buck is also a dedicated mother. She has often spoken about the balance she strives to maintain between her work and family life, describing both as critical components of her identity. As a working mother, she serves as an inspiration to countless women who aspire to lead successful careers while maintaining fulfilling personal lives.
Buck’s ability to excel in both of these demanding roles reflects her deep commitment to nurturing those around her, whether it be her colleagues at Hershey or her family at home. Her success in balancing the two highlights the importance of flexibility, empathy, and understanding in leadership—a model she has championed both at Hershey and within the broader business community.
Legacy and Impact
Michele Buck’s career is far from over, but her impact on Hershey and the wider business world is already clear. Through her leadership, she has not only helped transform Hershey into a more diverse, innovative, and digitally-forward company, but she has also become a powerful symbol of what women can achieve in corporate leadership.
Her legacy will likely be defined by her ability to navigate change while remaining steadfast in her commitment to growth, inclusivity, and people-centered leadership. As the face of one of the most iconic brands in the world, Buck continues to blaze a trail for future generations of women in leadership, proving that it is possible to drive business success while staying true to one’s values and responsibilities both at work and at home.
