Key Information
Name: Kat Cole
Position: CEO of AG1 (formerly known as Athletic Greens)
Company: AG1
Education: MBA from Georgia State University - J. Mack Robinson College of Business
* LinkedIn Profile: [Kat Cole](https://www.linkedin.com/in/katcole)
Professional Background
Kat Cole has a robust background in executive leadership and company growth, highlighted by her tenure in AG1 and previous positions at Focus Brands and Cinnabon. Cole's trajectory from a Hooters waitress to an accomplished CEO offers a unique blend of hands-on operational expertise and strategic leadership.
Positions Held
- CEO of AG1 (formerly known as Athletic Greens)
- Start Date: 2021 as President and COO, Promoted to CEO in July 2024.
- Cole was brought into AG1 by the founder, primarily due to her strategic insights shared during an episode of "The Pomp Podcast."
- Responsibilities: Lead AG1's next phase of growth, focusing on global expansion and enhancing the company's product offerings.
- COO and President of North America for Focus Brands
- Focus Brands owns several well-known chains including Moe's Southwest Grill, Auntie Anne's, and Cinnabon.
- Cole significantly contributed to the company's growth, particularly notable for her leadership in Cinnabon.
- President of Cinnabon
- Start Date: January 2011
- Achievements:
- Expanded Cinnabon’s global footprint to 56 countries.
- Increased annual sales to approximately $1 billion.
- Recognized as the youngest CEO to appear on "Undercover Boss" and identified as one of Fortune's 40 under 40 in 2013.
Earlier Career at Hooters
- Role: Various roles culminating in Vice President of Training and Development.
- Achievements:
- Facilitated global expansion, helping to scale from 100 to 500 locations with a revenue increase to $1 billion.
Social and Public Profiles
- Instagram: [Kat Cole (@katcoleatl)](https://www.instagram.com/katcoleATL/)
- Followers: 32K
- Shares insights on leadership and personal life.
- Twitter: [Kat Cole (@katcoleatl)](https://twitter.com/katcoleatl?lang=en)
- Engages with her audience on topics related to growth, change, and business insights.
Public Speaking and Media Presence
- Frequent Speaker: Kat Cole speaks at various industry events like INBOUND 2024 and is often featured in business podcasts and interviews.
- Media Features:
- Fortune Magazine: Highlighted her innovative "hotshot rule," which drives her to take actions influenced by hypothetical insights from admired figures.
- Undercover Boss: Featured to offer a glimpse into her operational involvement and leadership style.
- Podcasts & YouTube: Discusses business growth strategies and company scaling.
Personal Achievements and Recognitions
- Awards:
- Woman in Business: Frequently listed among influential business leaders under 40.
- Elliot Leadership Institute: Motivator of the Year (2008).
- Georgia Restaurant Association: Crystal of Excellence (GRACE) Award (2010).
- Fortune 40 under 40: Ranked No. 40 in 2013.
- Board Memberships:
- Active in organizations such as Women’s Foodservice Forum and National Restaurant Association Education Foundation.
Additional Insights
- Professional Philosophy: Advocates for operational excellence combined with innovative growth strategies.
- Hotshot Rule: A unique decision-making practice that encourages taking bold, immediate actions inspired by hypothetical input from admired figures.
Conclusion
Kat Cole's leadership at AG1, complemented by her previous executive roles, underscores her capability to drive significant growth and operational success. For sales and partnership opportunities, focusing on Cole’s strategic vision and innovative approaches would be crucial in aligning proposals with AG1’s evolving business objectives.
