Michael Merritt

Michael Merritt, Jr. is an accomplished marketing professional with over 25 years of experience in brand management and marketing strategy across various industries. Currently serving as Marketing Director at StarKist Co. since April 2024, Michael previously held multiple senior roles at Smithfield Foods, where responsibilities included driving profitability for a $2.5 billion multi-brand portfolio and leading a team in brand campaign development. Earlier positions include Sr. Brand Manager at Birds Eye Foods, where Michael managed a $700 million portfolio, and Associate Brand Manager at Nestlé, overseeing product management for Kern's All Natural Nectar. Michael's expertise in establishing performance goals, managing multi-million dollar budgets, and executing successful marketing strategies has been a consistent theme throughout a diverse career that began with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from SUNY Geneseo and an MBA from the University at Buffalo.