Don Fussner is a seasoned executive with more than 30 years of experience in consumer-packaged goods manufacturing, including 16 years in the meat industry. Currently serving as CEO of Johnsonville, Fussner’s career is distinguished by progressive leadership roles and transformative initiatives at renowned companies such as Nabisco, Oscar Mayer, Kraft/Heinz, and now Johnsonville.

Fussner began his career balancing full-time college studies, sales roles at Coca-Cola, and accounting responsibilities at Caesar’s Atlantic City Casino, demonstrating early resilience and a strong work ethic. He quickly advanced through operations and finance roles at Nabisco, where he led plant turnarounds, implemented financial systems, and managed major brand portfolios.

His leadership in contract manufacturing and integration was pivotal during the merger between Nabisco and Kraft, during which time he managed a $2 billion cost base and drove operational excellence through SAP and Lean Six Sigma initiatives.

At Kraft/Heinz, Fussner held executive positions including CFO for Food Service and Oscar Mayer; and later, President and General Manager of Oscar Mayer. He spearheaded strategic transformations, including the Kraft and Mondelez split, Kraft Foods integration into Kraft/Heinz, major manufacturing footprint projects, and the launch of innovative products that delivered significant sales and EBITDA growth.

Joining Johnsonville in 2019 as CFO, Fussner advanced to COO and, in 2024, CEO. His tenure is marked by strategic cost transformation, acquisitions, integrated business planning, operational excellence, and a company-wide culture refresh. Throughout his career, Fussner has been recognized for his ability to lead through complexity, deliver results, and foster a culture of operational excellence and innovation.
Fussner is married to his best friend Julie, who happens to be the CEO of Culver’s and the CEO of the Fussner household. Together, they have five boys and three grandchildren. They live in Waunakee and Kohler, Wisconsin.