US-based Just Born makes strategic move with new sales leader
Matt Butkus has joined Just Born as head of sales. Pic: Just Born.
US independent confectionery firm, Just Born Quality Confections, has unveiled Matt Butkus as its new head of sales, writes Neill Barston.
The company, which is behind the well established Peeps brand, as well as Mike and Ike, Hot Tamales and Goldenberg’s Peanut Chew, has made a notable start for 2026.
As the business noted, Butkus brings more than two decades of leadership experience in the Consumer Packaged Goods industry, with a proven record of driving sales growth, building high-performing teams and strengthening retailer partnerships across mass, grocery, drug, and specialty channels.
Matt succeeds Frank Amato, who has served in sales leadership roles for more than two decades, wil6, after a remarkable 21-year career with Just Born, and has been working with the company’s incoming postholder over recent weeks to deliver a smooth transition.
“Matt’s strategic approach and collaborative leadership style make him an outstanding addition to our team,” said Meenakshi Trehan, Chief Growth Officer at Just Born.
“His passion for empowering teams and fostering innovation will help guide us as we strengthen our presence across channels and pursue new growth opportunities. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the Just Born family.”
Most recently, Butkus led the sales team at hello brand (Colgate-Palmolive), where he delivered growth five times faster than the category average while deepening relationships with top retail partners.
Prior to that, he held senior roles at Colgate-Palmolive, including Director of Business Development for Oral Care and Senior Sales Team Lead for Kroger, where he consistently delivered market share gains and exceeded both top- and bottom-line goals through strategic execution and collaboration.
Praising Amato’s work over the past two decades, Trehan added: ““Frank’s leadership and commitment have made a lasting impact on our business and culture
“We are deeply grateful for his contributions and wish him the very best in his retirement.”
As Matt steps into this role, he brings not only deep industry expertise but also a strong sense of purpose and community
Outside of work, he enjoys soccer, golf and following college sports. He is an active volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and Feed My Starving Children, reflecting his commitment to giving back.
