The Board of Directors of Lancaster Colony Corporation has appointed David A. Ciesinski as CEO and principal executive officer effective July 1, 2017.
Mr. Ciesinski will also join the Company’s Board of Directors effective that same date. John B. (“Jay”) Gerlach, Jr., the Company’s current CEO, will continue his employment and retain his role as Lancaster Colony’s Executive Chairman.
Mr. Ciesinski has served as Lancaster Colony’s President and Chief Operating Officer since joining the Company in April 2016. He is a veteran of the packaged foods industry with a background that includes executive leadership positions at H.J. Heinz Company and Kraft Foods Group, Inc. Mr. Ciesinski is a graduate of the United States Military Academy, West Point, and has also earned a Master’s Degree from the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University.
“I am honored by this appointment to succeed Jay Gerlach as CEO and appreciate the legacy of strong leadership he has provided the Company over the past 41 years, including 20 years as CEO. During his tenure, Jay has successfully transformed Lancaster Colony from a diversified manufacturer to a growing food business,” said Mr. Ciesinski. “I’m incredibly excited about this new opportunity to extend my work with the great team of very talented people here at Lancaster Colony. We look forward to continuing our commitment to be The Better Food Company through the acceleration of our base business, simplification of our supply chain and added growth from good-fitting acquisitions.”
Mr. Gerlach commented, “Dave’s efforts over the past year as our President and Chief Operating Officer have touched all aspects of our business, most notably strengthening our management team, executing the Angelic Bakehouse acquisition and developing our long-term growth strategy. We are confident Dave is the right person to lead our business into the future.”
Source: Lancaster Colony
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.
