Dan Bukowski is a mission-driven and results-oriented executive with 24 years of leadership experience in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) and retail industries. Known for his expertise in sales strategy, category management, P&L oversight, and go-to-market execution, Dan has consistently demonstrated a proven ability to drive growth, build high-performing teams, and create value in competitive markets. His career is marked by a commitment to fostering collaboration, innovation, and customer-centric solutions that achieve measurable success.

Currently serving as Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Strategy at GT’s Living Foods, Dan leads a $400 million business and a team of 50 professionals across sales, customer support, demand planning, category management, and customer marketing. Reporting directly to the Founder/CEO, Dan has played a pivotal role in reshaping the company’s go-to-market organization, transitioning it to a fact-based and Joint Business Planning (JBP) model. Under his leadership, GT’s Living Foods has established its first bottoms-up sales planning, Integrated Business Planning, and S&OP processes, while strategically penetrating key retailers such as Walmart, Target, Albertsons, Kroger, Whole Foods, and Sprouts.

Prior to joining GT’s Living Foods, Dan served as Senior Vice President of Retail Sales at Darigold, where he led the sales organization for an iconic 115-year-old farmer-owned dairy cooperative. Overseeing an $800 million portfolio, Dan successfully transitioned Darigold from a private-label focus to a branded sales approach, achieving a 15% improvement in product contribution margin. He demonstrated exceptional strategic foresight by leading the company’s national RFP process for broker representation, negotiating key distributor contracts, and securing high-profile partnerships with retailers such as Costco, Walmart, and Whole Foods.

Dan’s ability to scale businesses and introduce innovative products is exemplified by his tenure as Executive Vice President of Sales at Good Culture. In this role, he grew the company from $20 million to over $115 million, delivering exceptional sales performance while reducing costs by 700 basis points. He spearheaded new category launches, including sour cream, cream cheese, and milk, and played a critical role in securing a $60 million investment during the company’s fundraising efforts.

Earlier in his career, Dan held leadership roles at Organic Valley, Dean Foods, The Hershey Company, ConAgra Foods, Diamond Foods, and Wrigley Sales Company. These experiences honed his skills in category management, strategic planning, sales operations, and customer relationship building. At Organic Valley, he oversaw an $850 million business, leading the sales team to consistently exceed annual goals while introducing new data-driven selling strategies.

Dan’s success is rooted in his ability to combine strategic planning with tactical execution. He has a deep understanding of the complexities of retail and CPG markets, extensive channel knowledge, and a talent for building relationships with key stakeholders. His career achievements include launching new products, creating category-leading strategies, and guiding organizations through transformational change.

Dan holds dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Business Administration with emphases in Management Information Systems and International Business from Gonzaga University. He is an active mentor for universities, sharing his expertise and passion for leadership with future industry professionals.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Dan enjoys golf, hiking, and fitness, which align with his personal mission to grow professionally, personally, spiritually, mentally, and physically. He is also active in associations like CMA and Next Up, reflecting his dedication to professional development and networking.

Now at a well-aligned point in his career, Dan is seeking board opportunities to leverage his extensive expertise to help organizations achieve growth and operational excellence. With a track record of success, a passion for mentorship, and a commitment to innovation, Dan Bukowski is a visionary leader ready to contribute to the strategic direction of companies in the CPG, retail, and related industries.

Character

Dan Bukowski embodies integrity, resilience, and a mission-driven mindset, consistently fostering growth and collaboration across teams.

Knowledge

With 24 years of expertise in CPG and retail industries, Dan possesses deep insights into P&L management, category strategy, and go-to-market execution.

Strategic

Dan is a visionary leader adept at transforming organizations, driving innovation, and creating value through effective planning and execution.

Communication

Known for his clear and impactful communication, Dan excels in building relationships, mentoring teams, and aligning stakeholders to achieve shared goals.