An Interview with Dave Rader, Former Frito-Lay CFO

Dave Rader (pictured below; I'm on the left and he's on the right), currently a PepsiCo Executive Vice President and former Frito-Lay Chief Financial Officer, will retire in May after spending 35 years with our company, many as a well-respected leader. Before he retires, I wanted to chat with Dave to find out what he considers his greatest career achievement and pass on any insights he has about our business, based on his experience with the company.

In 1998, Dave took over as Frito-Lay’s Chief Financial Officer, and I had the pleasure to work with him while in my Marketing leadership role. Dave brought a refreshing, collaborative approach to the finance function. From a Marketing perspective, he always demanded we go through detailed and proper due diligence when developing business propositions. However, he was always the first person to roll up his sleeves and help figure out solutions to complex business problems.

Maybe he was such a good partner to the Marketing team because he started his PepsiCo career in Marketing, working on the Taco Bell business, which used to be part of PepsiCo. So, he intuitively understood the challenges of creating and launching a new idea.  In my interview with Dave, you’ll hear a fun story about his early Marketing career when he shot a TV ad that makes it to the bloopers reel at almost every annual Taco Bell meeting. 

After he retires, Dave has plenty to keep him busy, including his two young grandchildren who live in the Dallas area. He’s actively involved with Ohio State University (his alma mater), The University of Texas Red McCombs School of Business and Southern Methodist University.  Plus, he participates with various committees and fund-raising efforts for St. Andrew United Methodist Church.

I really enjoyed connecting with Dave for this podcast, and I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised to hear his candid and thoughtful answers to my questions.

Listen to my interview podcast with Dave Rader now.

- Dave Philips

Comments

[Acai Optimum]

I'll rate your posting as one of the most informative and educative so far... i love to read brilliant posts like yours, all am just gonna say is keep the good work!

[CFO Advisor Part Time]

Mr Rader has had an incredible career as a CFO with Frito Lay. His background in marketing also brought a lot to the table in regards to innovation and new approaches.