DDW CEO Transition

LOUISVILLE, KY | May 26, 2021 | DDW is pleased to announce that President and Chief Operating Officer, Elaine Gravatte will transition to the role of President and CEO.

Elaine’s journey at DDW began 21 years ago as Chief People Officer. She has since served the company in various roles including President of North America, Senior Vice President of Operations, and for the past 6 years, President and Chief Operating Officer.

Ted Nixon, who has been with DDW for 47 years, including 29 years as CEO, and the past 6 years as CEO/Board Chair, will transition out his role of CEO. He will continue to serve DDW as Board Chair and will be a welcome coach and mentor for Elaine in her new role.

“DDW, The Color House is in great hands. I’m thrilled to have worked alongside this wonderful executive and associate for the past 21 years and to continue our journey together,” says Nixon.

Gravatte is a graduate of the Wharton School’s Global CEO Program. She received a master’s degree from Vanderbilt University in Human Resource Development and bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky in Communication and Psychology. Her education, experience, and success at DDW over the years are well suited to help DDW continue as a global leader in the competitive natural color industry.

“I am excited and honored to lead our wonderful associates around the world as we live our purpose of ‘Working Together to Serve Customers While Building Community’ and I look forward to building on the legacy of Ted’s incredible 29 years as CEO,” Gravatte says.

About DDW: Mother Nature supplies the raw materials, DDW adds more than 155 years of color expertise. It is a brilliant partnership that offers a complete range of natural color solutions for the food and beverage industry. DDW is a global, privately held company with 11 locations on 5 continents, committed to making a positive difference in our communities and working toward a sustainable future. Learn more at ddwcolor.com