Hershey has named Kristen Riggs as the new chief growth officer of the US-based confectionery business.
Riggs, who is currently vice president for innovation and strategic growth platforms, replaces Mary Beth West, who is retiring, according to a statement made by Hershey chairman, president and chief executive Michele Buck.
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In addition, Riggs, a 15-year Hershey veteran, has moved up the ladder to also take on the senior vice president role. In the new positions, Riggs will lead Hershey’s “consumer intelligence and strategy capabilities, strategic growth platforms, marketing excellence functions, innovation, research and development, and The Hershey Experience”.
Meanwhile, Chuck Raup has been promoted to president of US operations for New York-listed Hershey from his current position of vice president of US CMG. In his new role, Raup, who has been at the business for a decade, will be responsible for “driving accelerated, sustainable growth for the company across traditional and digital channels, [and] balancing [the] top and bottom line in the short and long term”.
Raup succeeds Todd Tillemans, who is leaving to pursue “a leadership opportunity”, Hershey noted.
Buck said: “Our strong momentum over the course of 2019 positions the company well as we plan for 2020. Hershey continues to advance its vision of becoming an innovative snacking powerhouse, and these executive changes elevate proven commercial operators into leadership roles that will create strong business continuity, enhance strategic and analytical expertise, and bring fresh perspectives to take our business to the next level of sustainable growth.”
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The CEO said Hector de la Barreda will continue to head up Amplify Snack Brands, the US business acquired by Hershey in 2017, and one which she described as “an important strategic growth priority”.
Terry O’Day, a senior vice president and chief technology and data officer, will retire on 31 March, with finance chief Steve Voskuil to take over Hershey’s tech efforts.
Rohit Grover will remain as president of the international division, while Jason Reiman stays as senior vice president and chief supply chain officer.
