General Mills Inc. said between 400 and 600 jobs would be eliminated in a restructuring as the struggling food giant works to adapt to changing food trends and prepare for an eventual new leader.
The round of job cuts is just the latest from General Mills, which has had to close factories and outlined plans to cut about 5,000 jobs—more than a tenth of its workforce—since September 2014.
General Mills said it is bringing in “external expertise” in the areas of strategic revenue management, e-commerce and marketing. It also said it is looking for a new chief marketing officer.
The company recently announced that Chief Operating Officer Jeff Harmening, who the Wall Street Journal reported in August is being groomed for the eventual chief executive role, was taking over the COO role for the entire company. Four business groups will report directly to Mr. Harmening.
In its latest quarter, General Mills said in September that sales fell 7% as its yogurt business plunged in the U.S., as shoppers traded Yoplait for Greek-style brands.
Shares of General Mills were flat in morning trading.
By Austen Hufford
Source: Wall Street Journal
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.
