Dawn E. Hudson

Who is Dawn E. Hudson?

Hudson has been president of the $4 billion beverage division since June 2002, having risen through the ranks at PepsiCo since joining as executive vice president of sales and marketing for Frito Lay in 1996. Known as one of the country's savviest marketers, Hudson has notched more than two decades of brand building. Pepsi has scored new food service agreements with Little Caesars Pizza, Golden Corral and Long John Silvers. New product innovations this year include Diet Pepsi Max with extra caffeine and ginseng, and Aquafina Alive. Due out later this year, Tava, a zero-calorie sparkling beverage enhanced with vitamins E and B6. Hudson keeps busy on the boards of the LPGA, Lowe's Corporation, the American Film Institute and the American Beverage Association, and is a strong advocate of mentoring minority professionals.Suzanne Hoppough