Richard Ferranti has been named chief executive officer at Rich Products Corp., effective Jan. 1, 2020. He will succeed longtime c.e.o. William G. Gisel, who will become executive vice chairman of Rich Holdings, Inc., the holding company for all Rich family business enterprises.
Mr. Ferranti steps into the c.e.o. role after his promotion to company president in April of last year. He joined Rich’s in 1986 and was named president of the company’s International Business Group in 1997, after working in a series of sales and marketing roles. He also was president of the company’s North America Business Group, before being named chief operating officer in 2012.
Mr. Ferranti received a bachelor’s degree in political science from Canisius College in Buffalo and a master’s degree in business administration from the State University of New York at Buffalo. He also is a graduate of the Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program.
Throughout their decades-long relationship, Mr. Ferranti and Mr. Gisel have worked to grow the family-owned food company’s global footprint, which now spans six continents and operates in more than 100 countries.
“Richard and I have worked closely together since the start of our global expansion 30 years ago,” Mr. Gisel said. “Navigating the complex nature of a global business — especially in a diverse industry like food — is a formidable challenge. With his vast experience and exceptional leadership skills, Richard is the ideal candidate to assume this important role.”
By Sam Danley
Source: Food Business News
Danone has appointed Carla Hilhorst to the newly created position of senior vice president of research and innovation categories and zones, as the company looks to make science the heart of its business. Hilhorst, who brings over 30 years of experience in research and innovation, will report directly to Isabelle Esser, Danone’s chief research, innovation, quality and food safety officer.
The move, part of Pernod Ricard’s strategy to enhance its premiumisation efforts, will allow the company to focus more resources on its portfolio of premium international spirits and champagne brands that drive the growth of its business. This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable value for shareholders, employees, clients and partners.
Schai – who is the current CEO of Swiss chocolate company Lindt & Sprüngli’s Australian operation – has previously worked with Aryzta from 2015-2018, where he served in roles including managing director for Asia Pacific and global strategic business lead (McDonald’s). The fast-food giant McDonald’s is one of Aryzta’s significant clients.
