CHICO, Calif. (March 26, 2024) — Think Better Group, in partnership with co-owners Michelle Kalberer and Jeff Creswell, welcomes Gordon Smith as the new CEO of Klean Kanteen.
Gordon has been an integral member of the Klean Kanteen team, most recently as the CFO/Head of Finance, and brings a wealth of knowledge of the Klean Kanteen operations worldwide. Prior to Klean Kanteen, Gordon held a variety of senior operational roles which also included 14 years as a Vice President in commercial banking. Gordon brings over 20 years of finance and leadership experience to his new appointment and will provide a renewed level of guidance and strategy to the Klean teams around the world.
“I’m both humbled and excited to take over responsibility and lead Klean Kanteen into the next 20 years,” said Smith. “The opportunities to continue the impact-based legacy of this company will help lead the way forward for all.”
“Having built Klean over the last 20 years as a family business, we were ready for a partner to take us to the next stage of growth,” said Kalberer and Creswell. “Think Better Group is that perfect partner. At the same time we recognized the opportunity to step into roles we are passionate about and working with Gordon for the past 6 years, we knew he would be the right person to step into the CEO role.”
Heath Jansen, CEO of Think Better Group commented, “We are excited to welcome Gordon to the executive leadership team of the Think Better Group and have the opportunity to work alongside Gordon as we build out the Group’s brands in partnership with Klean Kanteen’s team. Gordon was instrumental in driving the combination of Klean and Think Better Group and his operational and strategic knowledge of the business will provide a solid leadership platform to further internationalize the brand.”
Klean Kanteen was recently acquired by Think Better Group, a leading portfolio of sustainable consumer brands based in the UK.
About Klean Kanteen:
Founded in 2004, Klean Kanteen is a family and employee-owned leader in reusable stainless-steel drinkware and food containers with distribution worldwide. With a focus on environmental stewardship, Klean Kanteen is a B Corporation, proud 1% For The Planet member, and Climate Neutral Certified company. Working closely with values-aligned companies and organizations, Klean Kanteen supports efforts towards health, the reduction of single-use plastic, and environmental education and awareness. For more information visit www.kleankanteen.com.
