Tastefully Simple Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Tastefully Simple has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and information technology.

Dedicated to simplifying mealtime through high-quality culinary products, Tastefully Simple empowers home cooks with convenient, flavorful solutions that transform everyday dining into memorable experiences across the North American market.

Leadership Roles at Tastefully Simple

  • Chief Executive Officer - Cheryl Waddell-Cousineau
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Steve Cook
  • Founding Partner and Chief Operating Officer - Joani Nielson
  • Interim Chief Information Officer - Carolyn Schmidt
  • Cheryl Waddell-Cousineau - Chief Executive Officer

    Cheryl Waddell-Cousineau, the Chief Executive Officer at Tastefully Simple, directs the overarching corporate strategy and long-term vision for the organization. Focusing on the expansion of the direct-sales model, the Chief Executive Officer drives initiatives that enhance the accessibility of meal kits and gourmet food products. By aligning internal resources with market demands, Cheryl Waddell-Cousineau ensures the company maintains a competitive edge in the retail grocery sector. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the board to refine business models and optimize revenue streams. Through the oversight of national distribution networks, the Chief Executive Officer secures operational efficiency and brand consistency. Waddell-Cousineau prioritizes the development of sustainable growth strategies that support the company mission of simplifying home cooking. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer fosters a culture of innovation that keeps the product portfolio relevant to modern consumer preferences while maintaining the core values of the brand.

    Steve Cook - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Steve Cook, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Tastefully Simple, manages the daily execution of business operations and organizational performance. Overseeing the integration of product development with sales channel management, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that meal and entertainment kits reach consumers effectively. Steve Cook directs the implementation of strategic plans that bolster the company presence in the competitive food retail landscape. This role requires balancing the needs of independent consultants with the requirements of the corporate supply chain to maximize profitability. By monitoring key performance indicators, the President & Chief Executive Officer identifies opportunities for process improvement and market penetration. Cook maintains a focus on operational excellence, ensuring that all departments function in harmony to deliver high-quality seasonings, sauces, and snacks. Through rigorous oversight of regional sales performance, the President & Chief Executive Officer drives the company toward achieving ambitious financial targets and long-term stability.

    Joani Nielson - Founding Partner and Chief Operating Officer

    Joani Nielson, the Founding Partner and Chief Operating Officer at Tastefully Simple, oversees the logistical framework and operational workflows that sustain the company business model. Managing the complex supply chain for diverse product lines including beverages, desserts, and dip mixes, the Founding Partner and Chief Operating Officer ensures consistent product availability across the North American market. Joani Nielson directs the coordination between manufacturing partners and distribution centers to maintain high quality standards for all food items. This role involves refining operational processes to reduce overhead costs while improving delivery speed for meal kits and seasonings. By fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders, the Founding Partner and Chief Operating Officer aligns operational output with the strategic goals set by the executive team. Nielson focuses on scaling internal operations to accommodate growth in the direct-sales channel. Through meticulous attention to detail, the Founding Partner and Chief Operating Officer guarantees that the company remains a leader in the retail grocery industry.

    Carolyn Schmidt - Interim Chief Information Officer

    Carolyn Schmidt, the Interim Chief Information Officer at Tastefully Simple, architects the digital infrastructure necessary to support the company multi-level marketing platform. Overseeing the security and scalability of internal data systems, the Interim Chief Information Officer ensures that technology solutions facilitate seamless transactions for consultants and customers alike. Carolyn Schmidt directs the modernization of digital tools used for inventory management and order processing, which directly impacts the efficiency of the supply chain. This leadership role involves coordinating with other executives to align technological capabilities with the broader business strategy. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures, the Interim Chief Information Officer protects sensitive corporate and consumer data across all digital touchpoints. Schmidt focuses on optimizing the user experience for the online ordering portal, ensuring that the platform remains intuitive and reliable. Through the strategic deployment of information technology, the Interim Chief Information Officer supports the company mission of providing convenient culinary solutions to a broad customer base.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Tastefully Simple Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Tastefully Simple?
    Tastefully Simple is led by Cheryl Waddell-Cousineau (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Steve Cook (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Joani Nielson (Founding Partner and Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Tastefully Simple’s executive team?
    The executive team of Tastefully Simple includes leaders such as Cheryl Waddell-Cousineau (Chief Executive Officer), Steve Cook (President & Chief Executive Officer), Joani Nielson (Founding Partner and Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Tastefully Simple have?
    Tastefully Simple has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Tastefully Simple’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Tastefully Simple includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Founding Partner and Chief Operating Officer, Interim Chief Information Officer.