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Over her 14+ years with CPG giant Danone, Ariel Fortune Dalton has worked her way up from category analyst to SVP of commercial leadership. Get to know her better below.
How would you describe your job to someone who doesn’t work in retail? I commercialize great ideas, which turn into great activations and products. I work across teams to bring products to the market so you can enjoy them. I also manage a highly passionate and productive team.
One thing we can’t guess about your job from your LinkedIn profile? When people see I work at Danone North America, they often don’t realize the breadth of Danone’s portfolio. We have so many product categories and brands that consumers can purchase anywhere they shop and consume food.
What’s your favorite project you’ve worked on? The development and launch of Horizon Growing Years Milk. Knowing how critical nutrition is for young children, we partnered with pediatricians to identify key nutrients they need as they make the transition to dairy milk around 12 months. While working on this project, I was also expecting my first child, a daughter. She was top of mind for me throughout the entire process.
Which emerging retail trend are you most excited about this year, and why? The rise of e-commerce, specifically the convenience and use of delivery networks like Instacart and Shipt, is a game-changer for my family of five.
What’s your go-to coffee order? My husband and I enjoy the “freshness” associated with grinding our own coffee beans every morning and attempt to get a cup in before our three kids wake up. My favorite coffee is Jacob’s Wonderbar from Philz, and I enjoy it with Silk Oatmeal Cookie Creamer.
Worst piece of advice you’ve received? If you work hard enough, anything is possible. I’ve learned that tying a successful outcome solely to an individual’s work ethic doesn’t always drive the right behaviors. It’s not just about you. It’s not just about working hard. You also have to work smarter. You also have to work together. You also have to recognize when to throw in the towel and pivot to better position yourself to succeed.
What was your favorite retail product when you were 15, and what’s your favorite retail product now? When I was 15, I loved sugar-free Red Bull (it often got me through finals week). Today, I get my energy from coffee. I love pairing it with Silk. Leaving the food space, one of my favorite retail products is It’s A 10 Miracle Leave-In product for my hair care.