Suggestions
Mary Jo Cook
Board Member, Advisor & Fractional CXO
Mary Jo Cook is a prominent figure in the field of social impact and healthcare, currently serving on the Board of Directors at VIA Global Health, a social enterprise focused on improving access to medical technologies in underserved communities. She joined the board on July 1, 2023, bringing over 30 years of leadership experience from various sectors, including Fortune 500 companies and entrepreneurial ventures.1
Professional Background
Cook has held significant roles throughout her career, including:
- First Vice President of Innovation and Sustainability at Clorox, where she led initiatives like the GreenWorks natural cleaning product line.
- CEO of Pacific Community Ventures, where she oversaw programs that support small businesses and impact investors.
- Chief Impact Officer at Fair Trade USA, where she worked on improving global supply chains for better outcomes for farmers and workers.12
In addition to her role at VIA Global Health, she is involved with several organizations, including:
- Ganaz, a venture-backed platform providing financial services to farmworkers.
- How Women Invest, a venture fund supporting women-led startups.
- Advisory roles with Mightly, Sustainable Brands, and the Heron Foundation.1
Educational Background
Mary Jo Cook holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Illinois and an MBA from the University of Chicago, underscoring her strong academic foundation in business and management.2
Her commitment to leveraging business as a force for good aligns with VIA Global Health's mission to enhance healthcare access globally, particularly in low-resource settings.1