Professional Summary

Professional Overview

Maria Kraus is an accomplished financial executive with extensive experience in the pharmaceutical and consumer goods industries. As the Chief Financial Officer of Wedgewood Pharmacy, she oversees the company's financial operations and strategic planning, driving financial growth and operational efficiency. Additionally, she serves on the Board of Directors for The Hershey Company, applying her deep expertise in corporate governance and financial management.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Chief Financial Officer, Wedgewood Pharmacy (2021 - Present)

• Responsible for leading the company's financial strategy, planning, and reporting, ensuring the successful execution of key initiatives.

• Implemented cost-saving measures and process improvements, resulting in a 15% increase in operating margins over the past two years.

• Played a crucial role in securing a $50 million funding round to support the company's expansion into new markets.

Director, Board of Directors, The Hershey Company (2023 - Present)

• Serves on the Audit and Finance Committees, providing strategic guidance and oversight on financial performance and risk management.

• Contributes to the company's long-term growth and sustainability initiatives, leveraging her extensive industry knowledge.

Chairman of the Board, The Hershey Trust Company & Milton Hershey School (2018 - Present)

• Oversees the strategic direction and governance of the Hershey Trust, a leading philanthropic organization, and the Milton Hershey School.

• Ensures the effective allocation of resources and alignment with the organization's mission to provide educational opportunities for underprivileged youth.

Board Manager, The M.S. Hershey Foundation (2019 - Present)

• Serves on the board of the M.S. Hershey Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to community development and cultural initiatives.

• Contributes to the foundation's strategic planning and decision-making processes, ensuring the effective deployment of resources.

Past Experience

Board Member, Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania (2008 - 2023)

• Provided strategic guidance and oversight to the regional Girl Scouts council, supporting initiatives to empower young women and promote community engagement.

• Served on the Finance and Governance Committees, contributing to the organization's financial sustainability and governance practices.

Academic Background

Maria Kraus holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, where she graduated with high honors. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and has completed executive leadership programs at Harvard Business School and Stanford Graduate School of Business.

Areas of Expertise

• Financial management and strategic planning

• Corporate governance and board-level strategy

• Operational efficiency and process optimization

• Mergers, acquisitions, and capital transactions

• Non-profit management and community engagement

Professional Impact

• Spearheaded the successful integration of two acquired companies, resulting in a 20% increase in overall revenue for Wedgewood Pharmacy.

• Served as a key advisor to the Hershey Trust on the organization's $300 million investment in sustainable agriculture initiatives.

• Led the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania's finance committee, overseeing the council's $25 million annual budget and driving financial stability.

Conclusion

With her exceptional financial acumen, strong leadership skills, and deep industry experience, Maria Kraus is positioned to continue making a significant impact on the organizations she serves. Her commitment to driving financial growth, operational excellence, and sustainable development positions her as a valued strategic partner and trusted advisor in the pharmaceutical, consumer goods, and non-profit sectors.