Donald Knauss
Donald R. Knauss | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1951 United States |
| Occupation | Corporate executive |
| Known for | Former CEO of Clorox |
Donald R. Knauss (born 1951) is an American corporate leader and the former chief executive officer of Clorox.
Early life
In 1977, Knauss obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from Indiana University Bloomington.
Career
Knauss initiated his professional journey in 1978 as a second lieutenant and Artillery Officer with the U.S. Marine Corps, serving until 1981 before transitioning to Procter & Gamble. Subsequently, he assumed marketing and sales leadership positions at Frito-Lay and Tropicana, including managing Frito-Lay’s southeastern sales region.
He progressed to oversee North American operations at The Coca-Cola Company. In 2006, Knauss was appointed CEO of Clorox. Between 2007 and 2012, his total earnings amounted to $21.8 million, with $6.37 million earned in 2012 alone, placing him as the 11th highest-compensated CEO within the household and personal products sector.
Knauss resigned as Clorox CEO in November 2014 but continued as chairman, succeeded by Benno Dorer, who previously served as executive vice president and COO. His roles at Clorox also included director and chairman positions. Additionally, he held board memberships at McKesson Corporation, URS Corporation, and Kellogg Company. In 2014, he was designated as Clorox’s inaugural executive chairman.
During his leadership as CEO, Knauss spearheaded Clorox’s strategic acquisition of Burt's Bees for $925 million in 2007, aiming to counterbalance sluggish growth in other product areas. Under his guidance in fiscal year 2014, Clorox reported revenues totaling $5.6 billion.
Civic activities
Knauss has served as chairman of the board of trustees at the University of San Diego since joining the board in 2008. He also holds board positions with the US Marine Corps University Foundation, the University Foundation, and Morehouse College. Moreover, he participates on the Economic Advisory Council for the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, and serves on the boards of the Grocery Manufacturers of America as well as the National Collegiate Athletic Association. He contributes to Indiana University's College of Arts & Sciences through its Dean's advisory board.
In the realm of sports marketing, Knauss has been involved in significant initiatives such as facilitating the renaming of the Houston Astros' stadium to Minute Maid Park and advocating for keeping the Oakland Athletics franchise in Oakland.