Jim Dodge

Class of 2025

For Jim Dodge, the climb has never been about reaching the top — it’s about lifting others up along the way.

Born on September 22, 1970, in Hornell, NY, Jim has built a 27-year career in the confectionery industry by living the values his mother instilled in him: work hard and do the right thing. The eldest of three brothers, Jim’s foundation was shaped by his mom, who overcame adversity to take family trips to Myrtle Beach, which are among his most cherished memories.

After graduating from the State University of New York at Fredonia with a degree in Biology and Medical Technology, Jim initially pursued a career in healthcare. He worked as a Medical Technologist at the University of Rochester and later as a Medical Software Validator at Johnson & Johnson. A brief stint in commercial real estate followed, but it was a fateful lunchtime visit to a job fair that launched his confectionery career.

In 1998, Jim convinced John Schroeder of then Wm. Wrigley Jr. Co. to hire him for a territory sales manager position, which led to roles of increased responsibility handling accounts including CVS, Costco, and Walmart. After Mars acquired Wrigley, he became the first sales associate to crossover to Mars in 2010.

His roles at Mars have included Walmart operations manager and senior account manager, senior seasonal planner, director of sales planning, director of customer marketing, director of convenience, and vice-president of convenience. Today he is Vice-President of On-the-Go, encompassing the convenience, vending, and specialty channels.

Throughout his career, Jim has sought growth opportunities and continues to challenge himself and mentor others. He’s says he is fulfilled by watching associates who have worked with and for him develop and be promoted into new roles in the organization and industry.

Jim often speaks at industry events, including the CSP Outlook Leadership Conference and NACS, and sat on the Convenience Distribution Association’s Advisory Board.

He has received numerous awards and recognition during his tenures at Mars and Wrigley, including induction into the Mars Tie and Scarf Club, an elite employee recognition program that recognizes loyalty, contributions to the community, and embodiment of Mars’ Five Principles.

In addition, Jim serves as a Leadership Sponsor of Mars Family Tree, mentors five associates annually, and volunteers at the Rochester Institute of Technology’s Saunders Business School.

Jim says the leaders who have had the greatest impact on his career include John Schroeder, who gave him his first confectionery job; Larry Lupo, his mentor for more than a decade; and Tim LeBel, a member of the Candy Hall of Fame Class of 2019, who has had a tremendous impact on his life
and career.

Married to Debbie since 2001 and father to two daughters, Madi and Gigi, Jim is a family man at heart. Whether running half-marathons, perfecting his lawn, or cheering for Notre Dame and the Buffalo Bills, he brings the same energy and dedication to life outside the office.