Markell Bridges
As Director of Information Systems Strategy, Planning, & IS Operations for Kraft Foods, Markell leads the development, implementation and performance measurement of the strategy for the Information Systems organization. In addition, he provides the leadership that governs the support of software applications across the enterprise.
Prior to his current position, Markell completed his second international assignment. Based in Paris France, he served as Director EU (European Union) and EEMA (Europe, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa) Geographic Competency Center within the Information Systems organization for Kraft Foods. Markell provided the day-to-day oversight for application management within the region and outlined organizational strategies for the support and delivery of application services across the region.
His career at Kraft Foods began in February 1993, as a Business Consultant. Markell supported the development of the Kraft's Human Resources and Payroll Systems. During his time in HR Systems, he was instrumental in leading the way for new technologies in the internet space. His leadership led to the launch of several leading edge web-based applications for Kraft Foods.
In 2000, he began working for the Kraft Food Services Division as an Associate Business Systems Manager. And in 2002, Markell was given the splendid opportunity to work in Vienna, Austria. In this role, he was responsible for the leading the implementation of the Kraft Foods Global Human Resources System, across the CEEMA region (Central & Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa).
Prior to joining Kraft Foods, Markell worked for McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing) in St. Louis and prior to this was a High School Mathematics teacher in the Chicago Public Schools System.
Markell's active involvement at Kraft extends beyond his job. He has served as a member of several committees & councils and has lead many community initiatives, manifesting his strong commitment for developing others and giving back to the community.
In addition to serving on our Governing Board, his involvement in the community includes having served as president of one of the Chicago area graduate chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and remains active with his university alumni association. Additionally, Markell a member of ITSMF (Information Technology Senior Management Forum); he is a life member of the National Black MBA Association; and he has participated in Big Brothers and Big Sisters.
Markell holds a Bachelors of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Arkansas in Pine Bluff, AR, and a MBA in Management from Lindenwood College in St. Charles, MO.
