Kite Hill, a California-based company and innovator in artisan plant-based cheeses and plant-based yogurts, announced that Shannon Toyos has joined the company as vice president of marketing. In her new role, she will be responsible for the strategic expansion of the brand’s presence in the market while aligning with the company’s core objectives of continuous growth and innovation to fit consumer demand.
“Shannon brings a wealth of knowledge on how to successfully drive new and emerging brands towards rapid growth and best-in-class innovation,” said Rob Leibowitz, CEO of Kite Hill. “We are confident that with her exceptional insight, innovative mindset, and strategic business acumen, Shannon will further solidify our brand, Kite Hill, as a leader and innovator within the plant-based market as consumer and retailer demand rapidly expands.”
Toyos carries more than 16 years of innovation and brand and business building experience. Prior to joining Kite Hill, Toyos was vice president of marketing for The J.M. Smucker Company where she led the marketing strategy, innovation agenda and business operations for the on-trend pet business unit. During her tenure, she launched many platforms including one of the largest new brand entries in the history of the pet snacks category, “Milo’s Kitchen”. Additionally, she was part of the core team to develop the growth strategy to expand into the pet premium space that resulted in a $1.9 billion increase within the brand’s portfolio through focused M&A.
Up first on Toyos's agenda will be to take an active role driving awareness and trial for Kite Hill's new Almond Milk Yogurt Tubes and Almond Milk Drinkable yogurts - all joining the market in late July 2018. She plans to use her experience and skills to ensure that the brand continues to lead the market with great tasting, better-for-you innovation while continuing to expand on its rapidly growing distribution footprint.
