Susan J. Kropf

Susan J. Kropf "has been a member of the board of directors of The Wallace Foundation since 2002.

"From 2001 until her retirement in January 2007, Kropf served as president and chief operating officer of Avon Products Inc. with full profit-and-loss responsibility for all of Avon's worldwide operations, including global marketing and supply chain. She was a member of Avon’s board of directors since January 1998.

"A 35-year veteran of Avon, Kropf has held key positions in virtually every area of the company, including marketing, research and development, global product development, customer service and manufacturing. She served as executive vice president and chief operating officer of Avon North America and global business operations. In this role, she was responsible for the company’s North American operating business unit, as well as global marketing, research and development, supply chain operations and information technology.  From 1997 to 1998, she was president of Avon U.S., the company’s largest single market, and from 1994 to 1997, she was president of new and emerging markets. Under her leadership, Russia became the fastest-growing new market entry in Avon’s history; Central Europe also grew dramatically. In addition, Kropf had operating responsibility for China, and she led Avon’s entry into South Africa via Avon’s acquisition of Justine (Pty) Ltd.

"Kropf serves on the boards of Coach Inc., MeadWestvaco Corp. and The Sherwin-Williams Co. She is also a member of Cosmetic Executive Women.

"In 2005, she was honored by the March of Dimes with the Beautiful Apple award for her dedication to charity. In 1997, Kropf was inducted into the YWCA Academy of Women Achievers.

"Kropf holds a B.A. from St. John’s University and an M.B.A in finance from New York University."