CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Snyder’s-Lance, Inc. has announced that its President and CEO, Carl E. Lee, Jr., has retired after 12 years of service to the Company. Brian J. Driscoll, former President and CEO of Diamond Foods and a current Director of Snyder’s-Lance, has agreed to step in as interim CEO.
In announcing the transition, Chairman of the Board, James Johnston said the following, “On behalf of the entire Snyder’s-Lance organization, the Board of Directors would like to thank Carl for his many contributions to the Company, and welcome Brian into his new role.” Mr. Johnston continued, “We see great potential in the strategic direction of the Company, and are excited to have access to Brian’s talent and experience to bring the Company to the next level of performance. With increased focus on margin expansion and profitable growth, we are confident that Brian has the skills to address some of the recent performance challenges, as well as drive the Company to a level of profitability more in line with the expectations of our shareholders.”
Brian Driscoll has more than 35 years of experience in the food industry having served most recently as the President and CEO of Diamond Foods until its acquisition by Snyder’s-Lance in February of 2016. In response to his most recent appointment, Mr. Driscoll said, “I am honored and excited to be asked by the Board to fulfill this critical role for the Company at such an important time in its development. I plan to immediately diagnose the underlying drivers of the Company’s margin and revenue performance and put in place strategies to continue to deliver on the expectations of our shareholders.”
The Company has announced that it will launch a national search for a permanent replacement to Mr. Lee. Mr. Driscoll is considered a strong candidate for that role, and will have full faith and confidence of the Board to develop and execute the Company’s strategies until a permanent decision is made.
