Tom Reilly

Tom Reilly is an American businessman and political strategist, best known for his tenure as the chief executive officer of The Clorox Company. His career spans significant leadership roles in major consumer goods corporations, coupled with active involvement in California state politics and national advocacy, particularly on issues of fiscal policy and corporate governance.

Early life and education

Born in San Francisco in 1952, Reilly was raised in the Bay Area. He pursued his undergraduate studies at the University of San Francisco, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He then attended the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a Master of Business Administration. His academic foundation in the San Francisco Bay Area set the stage for his future career in both the regional business community and the political landscape of California.

Business career

Reilly's business career began at the Carnation Company, where he held various marketing and management positions. He later joined The Clorox Company, a major Fortune 500 corporation headquartered in Oakland. Rising through the ranks, he held several senior executive roles before being appointed Chief Executive Officer in 2006. During his leadership, Clorox navigated the challenges of the Great Recession and expanded its portfolio of brands, which includes Burt's Bees, Brita, and Hidden Valley. Prior to his role at Clorox, Reilly also served as the President of Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream, overseeing its acquisition by Nestlé.

Political involvement

An active figure in Republican politics, Reilly has served in several appointed governmental roles. He was appointed by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to the California Commission on the 21st Century Economy, a bipartisan body tasked with reforming the state's tax structure. Reilly has also been a vocal advocate for budget reform in Sacramento and has served on the California Chamber of Commerce board. His political advocacy extends to national issues, having been involved with organizations like the Business Roundtable and serving as a co-chair for John McCain's 2008 presidential campaign in California.

Personal life

Reilly maintains a residence in the San Francisco Bay Area and is known to be an avid supporter of the University of California, Berkeley's athletic programs. He has served on the board of the California Academy of Sciences and is involved with various philanthropic endeavors focused on education and community development in the Bay Area. Details regarding his immediate family are kept private.

Legacy and recognition

Tom Reilly is recognized for steering The Clorox Company through a period of significant economic volatility and for his commitment to corporate social responsibility initiatives. His blend of corporate leadership and political engagement has made him a notable figure in California business circles. He has been featured in publications like The Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg News for his insights on corporate strategy and public policy. His work on the California Commission on the 21st Century Economy contributed to ongoing debates about the state's fiscal sustainability.

Category:American chief executives Category:American businesspeople in retailing Category:Clorox people Category:1952 births Category:Living people Category:University of San Francisco alumni Category:University of California, Berkeley alumni