The Hershey Company has appointed Natalie Rothman as its new Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), effective August 18, 2025. She will lead the global human resources function, reporting directly to President and CEO Kirk Tanner. Hershey’s headquarters is located in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Kirk Tanner praised Rothman’s appointment, stating, “Her proven track record of transforming HR functions at major organizations, combined with her deep expertise in developing talent and inspiring thriving cultures, makes her the ideal leader to advance our people strategy” (Hershey’s official contact page).
Natalie Rothman’s Impressive Background
Natalie Rothman brings over 25 years of HR leadership experience across various industries, including consumer products, retail, food service, automotive, and beauty. She’s previously served as CHRO at Inspire Brands, where she modernized HR with business process automation and AI tools and launched a 400+ person global capability center in India. Some of the brands she oversaw at Inspire Brands include Arby’s, Baskin-Robbins, and Dunkin’. For those interested in exploring more about Hershey’s recent moves, you can check out our article on Hershey’s Reese’s Chocolate Plant Opens.
Rothman’s Expertise in Organizational Transformation
Rothman is recognized for building high-performing teams and modernizing HR operating models, particularly for hourly, frontline workforces. She’s experienced in organizational transformation using technology-enabled solutions. For instance, her work at Advance Auto Parts from 2016 to 2023 involved leading business transformation and cultural change. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to modernize your own HR processes, consider submitting your favorite local dessert shop to our business directory to discover innovative practices.
Some key areas where Rothman has made a significant impact include:
* Modernizing HR functions with automation and AI tools
* Building high-performing teams across various industries
* Leading organizational transformation using technology-enabled solutions
Rothman’s Board Leadership and Governance Experience
In addition to her HR expertise, Rothman holds bar memberships in New York and New Jersey and serves on several boards. These include Udemy, where she’s Chairperson of the Compensation Committee, Pearce Services, and advisory boards for Emory Goizueta Business School and New Mountain Capital. For more insights on leadership changes at major companies, you might be interested in our article on Hershey’s Chief Growth Officer Appointment.
Rothman’s governance experience is complemented by her extensive background in HR leadership roles. She’s held positions at PepsiCo from 2006 to 2016 and began her career as an employment attorney at Brown Raysman from 2003 to 2006. If you’re looking to feature your dessert recipe on our site, consider submitting it here for a chance to be showcased.
Recent Leadership Changes at Hershey
Kirk Tanner officially assumed the CEO position at Hershey on August 18, 2025, succeeding retiring CEO Michele Buck. Michele Buck was recognized in 2022 as a Top Women in Grocery Trailblazer by Progressive Grocer. Rothman’s appointment aligns with Hershey’s broader leadership transition and growth strategy. You can explore more about Hershey’s recent leadership moves in our article on Hershey’s LesserEvil Snack Acquisition.
Media Coverage and Additional Information
The announcement was made by PR Newswire on August 18, 2025, and reported by outlets like Baking Business and Progressive Grocer. An article by Zachary Sosland for Baking Business, dated August 19, 2025, provided further details on Rothman’s appointment. For those interested in learning more about Hershey’s new leadership, you can visit Hershey’s Chief Growth Officer Named for additional insights. You might also want to check out our Churro & foodie-themed apparel shop for some fun treats.
