James Turoff with The Hershey Co..

James Turoff, The Hershey Co.

During 2018, Turoff was responsible for leading and providing strategic direction for The Hershey Co.'s legal department in the interim period between the retirement of previous general counsel and the appointment of a new general counsel. His strong technical expertise in corporate governance and securities, effective assimilation into various international roles and ability to provide thought leadership with key stakeholders are a few examples of the critical roles in which he has served. 

He led the legal team that completed two of our most successful acquisitions: Amplify Snack Brands, which makes SkinnyPop popcorn and Oatmega whey-protein bars, for $1.6 billion and Pirate's Booty, which makes Pirate's Booty, Smart Puffs and Original Tings for $420 million. These two important acquisitions expanded the company into the healthier snacks portfolio and set the company on its successful path toward achieving its vision.

He was also instrumental with leading the board of directors through board effectiveness sessions so that they could serve as a strategic asset-empowering management team ready to deliver its vision of becoming a snacking powerhouse.

What career path would you have pursued if you weren't a lawyer?

I would be an announcer for Major League Baseball (preferably my hometown Cleveland Indians). I love the pace of the game and the strategies that go into every pitch.

Name a mentor or someone you admire.

Milton Hershey. He was a true visionary with as much passion for giving back to his community as for making great products consumers love. The legacy he built with The Hershey Co. and the Milton Hershey School is awe-inspiring.

What is the best advice you ever received?

“You should marry her,” (sage advice from my cousin about my singing partner in college). I did. Twenty-one years later, I'm still the luckiest guy on the planet.

In 50 words or less, what does the legal profession need to do to prepare the next generation of lawyers?

Much is expected of lawyers in today's business world. We need to partner with law schools to train the next generation how to operate (and ultimately lead) as well-rounded lawyers, commercial advisers, corporate strategists and business partners.