Board Member Spotlight

The Women On Boards Project is proud to spotlight Michele Kessler, a powerhouse in consumer brands and a thoughtful, strategic board member. Michele currently serves on the boards of Purely Elizabeth, Good Clean Love, Built Bar, and The Wine Group—and was previously CEO of Think! Protein Bars and REBBL plant-based beverages.

What inspired you to pursue board roles?

I’ve had the chance to scale iconic brands—from Snickers and M&M’s to Think! Protein Bars—and I love turning strategy into results. Board work gives me the chance to mentor and guide without micromanaging. It’s about offering perspective and helping companies make confident decisions.

What's been a standout moment for you as a board member?

At Purely Elizabeth, the board backed the launch of Cookie Granola—and it’s been a huge hit. Helping shape product strategy in ways that move the needle is incredibly energizing. It’s also been especially meaningful to support companies doing purposeful work in wellness and nutrition.

What advice do you have for aspiring board members?

Fit is everything.

Work with people you trust, and make sure the role aligns with your strengths. You need to be able to advise and challenge without stepping on the team’s toes. And don’t underestimate the power of staying in touch—with recruiters, PE firms, CEOs. Opportunities often come through relationships.

Do you have a favorite way to unwind?

I take a long walk every day around Marina Del Rey—it’s my time to reset. I also love to travel. My recent trip to Africa with my family—South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana—was absolutely unforgettable. Nature has a way of shifting your perspective.

Why is board diversity important to you?

Diverse boards lead to better business decisions. I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to bring in a mix of backgrounds—operators, creatives, people outside of finance. It helps CEOs feel more supported and results in smarter, more holistic guidance.