Episode 17: Today, Stephen Marks, Board Member, interviews Elaine Gravatte on the subject of Leading a Global Small Business from a CEOs Perspective. You may remember Steve Marks from Episode 5. He’s the Senior Vice President of Supply Chain for Givaudan. He actually used to be one Elaine’s direct reports.

Meet Elaine

Elaine is the former CEO of DDW, The Color House and recently retired as Divisional President for Givaudan Sense Colour. Prior to the acquisition by Givaudan, DDW was already a supplier to Coca-Coal, PepsiCo, Nestlé, Kraft Unilever and others from right here in Louisville. The company produces natural colors that are then utilized in the products those brands use as ingredients.

The company manufactures at multiple sites around the world. Elaine started with DDW 25 years ago, in an HR-leadership capacity. The business was generating less than $40 million in sales. Her career path grew to include sales and operations responsibility. She spent the last 10 years with DDW as its president and CEO. DDW had grown to almost $200 million in sales. After the acquisition by Givaudan, she finished her career as the Division President.

What’s Next for Elaine?

Elaine is transitioning into a role. Her new company is an executive coaching and consulting firm called, The Leader’s Dance, LLC. She’s motivated to share what she’s learned with other C-suite leaders. The name of the company is related to the need to balance leading a company and those responsibilities, while keeping your whole life in balance. Elaine’s a mom who raised a family during her career. She credits both her family and the company for having been very supportive of her and her balancing of the various responsibilities. She’s honest in admitting it’s tough to do all of the things well, all of the time.

To Contact Elaine Gravatte:

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elaine-gravatte-9213342/

Upcoming WTCKY EVENTS:

· 11/12/24 – International Trade Certification Program (3 days)

· 02/18/25 – Global Executive Forum: Navigating the Evolving Landscape and US-China Commercial Relations

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