15 July 2010 – Leslie Coopersmith, CEO of Guylian USA, has announced her retirement after more than 30 years in the confectionery industry. 



Coopersmith joined Guylian in 1988 – first heading up the Belgian chocolatier’s import business into the US and, in 1994, establishing Guylian USA. She became the company’s chief executive officer in 2005.

In addition, Coopersmith has served on the board of the National Confectionery Association and is currently a board member of the National Confectionery Sales Association. She was inducted into the Candy Hall of Fame in 2001. 



As part of the transition, she appointed Michael Cobb as company president in March. He will assume her responsibilities effective immediately and the company does not have any plans to appoint a new CEO. “Michael has an outstanding record in brand-building, revitalising brands, identifying new growth opportunities and unlocking profit and share growth potential, so I know I’m leaving the company in excellent hands,” says Coopersmith.