Our mission to advance women in business is driven by a powerful network of changemakers — including the inspiring professionals who serve on our Board of Directors. These leaders bring decades of industry expertise, a passion for inclusive leadership, and a shared commitment to empowering women at every stage of their careers.

To celebrate their leadership and dedication to #MoreWomenLeading, we're shining a spotlight on each board member, diving into their career journeys, most pivotal leadership moments, the best advice they've received, and even a few of their favorite reads.

Kris Cotrone

Kris is a seasoned HR leader with over 30 years of experience spanning Fortune 200 companies, higher education, and consulting. She retired from General Mills in 2023, where she led HR strategy for key business units and helped shape company-wide change initiatives. As a founding member of Forté and a current board member, Kris continues to champion women’s advancement through mentorship, advocacy, and strategic guidance.

Best advice ever received

“Ask for what you want.”

Throughout her career, whether negotiating a raise, requesting clarity, or seeking out a new challenge, she found that asking directly and with confidence often opened new doors.

Most pivotal career moment

After being promoted to officer at General Mills, Kris experienced a tough year balancing new professional responsibilities with challenges in her personal life. Stepping back for a two-week vacation gave her the reset she needed — and reminded her of her own strength. That decision ultimately sparked one of the most successful chapters of her career.

Biggest career advocate

Kris named Tiffany Boyd, CHRO at McDonald’s and a former colleague at General Mills, as a key mentor and advocate. Tiffany consistently pushed her to grow and pursue stretch opportunities — support Kris values to this day.

Recommended reading

Kris offered two standout reads:

• The Broken Rung by McKinsey & Company —  its insights into why women struggle to advance at the earliest management levels.
• Word Slut by Amanda Montell — a smart, engaging look at gendered language and how women can reclaim power through words.