Kat Cole

Kat Cole is an accomplished American businesswoman currently serving as the President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Athletic Greens, which is now known as AG1. She joined the company in December 2021 and was recently promoted to CEO in July 2024. Under her leadership, Athletic Greens has experienced significant growth, becoming one of the fastest-growing nutrition companies globally, with annual sales growth approaching 200% year-over-year.13

Career Background

Before her role at Athletic Greens, Cole had a distinguished career at Focus Brands, where she spent ten years, culminating in her position as President and COO. In this capacity, she oversaw several well-known brands, including Cinnabon, Auntie Anne’s, and Jamba, managing over 7,000 operations worldwide and generating billions in revenue.13 Her early career included a notable tenure at Hooters, where she rapidly advanced to Vice President by the age of 26, significantly contributing to the brand's global expansion.23

Education and Early Life

Cole was born on March 18, 1978, in Jacksonville, Florida. She was the first in her family to attend college but dropped out of an engineering program to pursue opportunities in the restaurant industry. She later earned her MBA from Georgia State University, overcoming challenges related to her educational background.3

Leadership Style and Philosophy

Kat Cole is recognized for her unique leadership style, which emphasizes ownership, accountability, and a commitment to both personal and organizational growth. She is a sought-after speaker and advisor on topics related to leadership and innovation, and she actively mentors young women and entrepreneurs.23

Community Involvement

In addition to her corporate roles, Cole is involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly focused on sustainable development for women and children in need. She serves on the board of directors for several organizations, including Slice, Milk Bar, and HumanCo SPAC.24

Kat Cole’s trajectory from a restaurant server to a leading executive showcases her dedication to her career and her ability to inspire others in the business world.