Hershey promotes Buck to CEO

Confectionery giant The Hershey Company has promoted chief operating officer and executive vice president Michele Buck as its next president and chief executive officer.

Effective from 1 March 2017, Buck will succeed John Bilbrey, who announced his intention to retire in October. Bilbrey will continue as non-executive chairman of Hershey’s board following his retirement.

Since joining the company in 2005, Buck has spearheaded the development and execution of many successful growth initiatives and strategic shifts, most notably Hershey’s substantial growth in its core confection portfolio as it moved from a supply- to demand-driven business model. She also oversaw the acquisitions of Krave and BarkThins brands.

“Michele is a proven leader who, during 11 years at Hershey and more than 25 years as an executive in the consumer packaged goods industry, has a demonstrated track record of building brands consumers love while bringing out the best in employees amid a rapidly changing business environment,” said Bilbrey.

Meanwhile, Buck added, “The opportunity ahead for Hershey is tremendous, and to take advantage of it will require a clear focus on meeting the evolving needs of consumers while moving quickly to stay ahead of the trends shaping our business.”