The Cap Times Power Hour, a quarterly executive series, features one-on-one, future-focused conversations with Wisconsin’s top leaders discussing business in our state.
3:30 P.M. / Check-In & Hors d'Oeuvres
5 P.M. / Discussion
Don Fussner
Chief Executive Officer | Johnsonville
Don Fussner is a seasoned executive with more than 30 years of experience in consumer-packaged goods manufacturing, including 16 years in the meat industry. Currently serving as CEO of Johnsonville, Fussner’s career is distinguished by progressive leadership roles and transformative initiatives at renowned companies such as Nabisco, Oscar Mayer, Kraft/Heinz, and now Johnsonville.
Fussner began his career balancing full-time college studies, sales roles at Coca-Cola, and accounting responsibilities at Caesar’s Atlantic City Casino, demonstrating early resilience and a strong work ethic. He quickly advanced through operations and finance roles at Nabisco, where he led plant turnarounds, implemented financial systems, and managed major brand portfolios.
His leadership in contract manufacturing and integration was pivotal during the merger between Nabisco and Kraft, during which time he managed a $2 billion cost base and drove operational excellence through SAP and Lean Six Sigma initiatives.
At Kraft/Heinz, Fussner held executive positions including CFO for Food Service and Oscar Mayer; and later, President and General Manager of Oscar Mayer. He spearheaded strategic transformations, including the Kraft and Mondelez split, Kraft Foods integration into Kraft/Heinz, major manufacturing footprint projects, and the launch of innovative products that delivered significant sales and EBITDA growth.
Joining Johnsonville in 2019 as CFO, Fussner advanced to COO and, in 2024, CEO. His tenure is marked by strategic cost transformation, acquisitions, integrated business planning, operational excellence, and a company-wide culture refresh. Throughout his career, Fussner has been recognized for his ability to lead through complexity, deliver results, and foster a culture of operational excellence and innovation.
Fussner is married to his best friend Julie, who happens to be the CEO of Culver’s and the CEO of the Fussner household. Together, they have five boys and three grandchildren. They live in Waunakee and Kohler, Wisconsin.
Julie Fussner
Chief Executive Officer | Culver Franchising System, LLC
Julie Fussner is the first woman to serve as Chief Executive Officer of Culver Franchising System, LLC, the franchisor of over 1,000 Culver’s restaurants across 26 states. Her appointment in 2025 marked a historic milestone for the brand and reflected her exceptional leadership, strategic insight, and deep commitment to Culver’s mission of genuine care.
Julie joined Culver’s in 2017 as Vice President of Marketing, bringing nearly two decades of experience in food consumer packaged goods, including leadership roles at Kraft Foods. Her ability to translate consumer insights into impactful brand strategies quickly elevated Culver’s national presence and deepened its emotional connection with guests.
In recognition of her transformative impact, Julie was named Culver’s first Chief Marketing Officer in 2021. In this role, she led initiatives that strengthened brand loyalty, enhanced the guest experience, and fostered a culture of innovation and excellence across the organization.
Throughout her career, Julie has demonstrated a unique ability to understand what drives people—how they feed themselves and their families, and what they value in a brand. Her leadership style is rooted in authenticity, integrity, and a passion for people. As CEO, she continues to champion Culver’s values of Midwest hospitality and purposeful growth, guiding the brand into its next chapter with bold vision and heartfelt care.
Outside of Culver’s, Julie also holds the title of CEO of her household. She is married to Don Fussner, fellow Wisconsin CEO of Johnsonville. Together, they’ve built a life in Waunakee and Kohler, WI, raising five boys and celebrating the joy of three grandchildren. Her leadership at home mirrors her leadership at work – rooted in care, collaboration and purpose.
Moderator: Mark Richardson, president of Unfinished Business Consulting and CEO of GigBlender.
Mark has spent the past 10 years helping professionals transition in their careers and organizations attract and acquire talent of color.