Kevin S. McClafferty: A Well-Networked Leader in the Food and Beverage Industry

Kevin S. McClafferty is a seasoned professional whose career in the food and beverage industry spans decades of innovation, strategic leadership, and unparalleled success. With a foundation built on a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Planning from Plymouth State University and continued executive education at renowned institutions such as the London Business School and Notre Dame University, Kevin embodies a commitment to excellence and continuous learning.

A Trailblazer in Beverage Startup Leadership

Kevin's journey in the industry began with a series of startup ventures that showcased his entrepreneurial spirit and keen business acumen. His role in launching Bolthouse Farms juices and smoothies on a national scale laid the groundwork for future successes, culminating in the company's acquisition by Madison Dearborn for over $250 million. This early experience ignited Kevin's passion for building brands from the ground up and navigating the complexities of the beverage market.

Driving Growth and Innovation

Throughout his career, Kevin has been at the forefront of driving growth and innovation within the industry. As President and CEO of Marley Beverages, Inc., he oversaw the development and rollout of the "Marley's Mellow Mood" line of teas, achieving nationwide distribution and generating over $40 million in revenue within the first three years. His strategic vision and collaborative approach ensured brand integrity and messaging alignment, leading to sustained success in a competitive market landscape.

A Catalyst for Change

Kevin's tenure at Talking Rain (Sparkling ICE) exemplifies his ability to lead transformative change and drive organizational success. As President, he orchestrated a company turnaround, reintroducing a portfolio of over 160 SKUs and scaling the company from a regional focus to a national powerhouse. Through Kevin’s leadership, Talking Rain's valuation soared up to $100 million, underscoring Kevin's impact as a catalyst for growth and innovation. Talking Rain’s current valuation now runs closer to $1B+. 

Strategic Leadership and Brand Management

In addition to his startup leadership roles, Kevin has held executive positions at industry giants such as Sara Lee Coffee and Tea and Nabisco Foods Group. At Sara Lee, he spearheaded a sales reorganization initiative that propelled the company's revenue from $25 million to over $300 million in just six years. His strategic foresight and operational expertise were instrumental in identifying best practices, evaluating acquisitions, and optimizing sales and distribution networks.

A Vision for the Future

Today, Kevin serves as the President and Founder of Dunn’s River Brands, LLC, a shared resource company dedicated to guiding and launching innovative brands across multiple categories. His strategic leadership and commitment to excellence continue to drive success, as evidenced by the acquisition of Sweet Leaf Tea and Tradewinds Tea, positioning Dunn’s River Brands for sustained growth and impact in the ever-evolving food and beverage landscape.

Conclusion

Kevin S. McClafferty's journey in the food and beverage industry is defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence, a passion for innovation, and a commitment to driving meaningful change. As a visionary leader, Kevin's impact resonates far beyond the boardroom, shaping the future of the industry and inspiring the next generation of leaders to push boundaries, challenge norms, and create lasting impact.