Strong Source Episode 21 with Kendra Rhodes
Mar 14, 2025
Kendra Rhodes, Director of Global Risk Management at General Mills, shares her extensive experience in commodities procurement and market analysis. She discusses the evolving landscape of risk management, highlighting a shift from complex derivatives to simplified hedging strategies. Kendra emphasizes the importance of data and agility in decision-making, providing insights on managing market volatility. She also offers valuable advice for newcomers in the industry, encouraging critical thinking and networking while promoting more female participation in commodities.
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From Soybeans To Options Early On
- Kendra started with Cargill internships, moved from a soybean plant to an options-markets internship, then a full-time role in derivatives.
- That experience gave her deep immersion in financial markets and options early in her career.
Markets Moved Toward Simpler Hedging
- Commodity risk management has shifted from complex options to simpler, more vanilla approaches over time.
- Higher volatility and unpredictable external shocks demand preparing for a wider range of outcomes.
Blend Data With Market Contacts
- Market insights teams must blend data analysis with on-the-ground market connections to form actionable views.
- Those insights guide procurement coverage, hedging decisions, and business unit P&L expectations.