Michele Buck, The Hershey Company’s president, CEO, and chairman, will retire on June 26, prompting a search for a new leader.
Buck began her Hershey career as SVP global chief marketing officer in April 2005.
She intends to continue in her roles until the company names a successor, at which time she plans to step down from the board and transition to a senior advisor position until her retirement.
The company’s board has appointed a special committee to lead the search for a new CEO, with both external and internal candidates to be considered.
“This year will be my 20th at Hershey and as we embark on a new year, I believe now is the right time to formally activate our succession planning and begin the transition to Hershey’s next leader,” said Buck.
Earlier, Bloomberg reported that Mondelez International is in discussions to buy Hershey.
