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Ben & Jerry's Strengthens Governance for Long-Term Social Mission

On December 16, 2025, Ben & Jerry's Homemade Inc. unveiled a series of governance changes aimed at reinforcing the integrity and sustainability of its social mission. This strategic initiative reflects the ice cream maker's long-standing commitment to social justice and ethical business practices, ensuring these values endure as the company progresses into a new era.

For over two decades, Ben & Jerry's board of directors has worked collaboratively to advocate for social change, championing movements that strive for a more equitable world. Reflecting this commitment, the company announced enhancements consistent with its merging structure with The Magnum Ice Cream Company (TMICC).

Key Governance Enhancements

The amendments include specific measures such as introducing a nine-year term limit for board members, aligning with TMICC’s governance model and recognized best practices. This term limit seeks to foster a board dynamic that incorporates fresh perspectives and diverse insights while sustaining institutional knowledge.

Moreover, the board reaffirmed its commitment to TMICC's Code of Business Integrity, which outlines ethical standards for conduct, emphasizing a culture of respect, dignity, and fair treatment across the organization. To facilitate better governance, a structured meeting schedule has been established, allowing for open channels of communication and action plans that promote the company's three-part mission—product quality, economic viability, and social responsibility.

“Today's announcement marks a profound commitment to our foundational values,” stated Jochanan Senf, CEO of Ben & Jerry’s. “The unique merger agreement and our governance role are pivotal for the future of our three-part mission. We aim to enhance transparency while holding ourselves accountable, ensuring that we remain effective advocates for progressive change in the years ahead.”

Senf further highlighted that the moves undertaken today are not just mere formalities but significant steps back to their roots, positioned to strengthen their engagement in the coming years.

Composition of the Board

With these governance changes, all current board members who have served for more than nine years will not be eligible for re-election in 2026. This transition reflects a broader strategy to infuse new energy and ideas into the board while ensuring effective governance. Three members have been explicitly informed they will not be considered for future board membership.

Additionally, all serving members will confirm their commitment to the Code of Business Integrity, fostering a culture of compliance and responsibility within the organization.

Review of the Ben & Jerry's Foundation

The enhancement steps closely follow a recent review of the Ben & Jerry's Foundation, an independent nonprofit organization established prior to the company's separation from Unilever. The assessment originated from a need for robust oversight practices following the split from Unilever and included recommendations for improved financial controls, governance policies, and conflict-of-interest protocols.

In collaboration with the foundation's trustees, Ben & Jerry's management is dedicated to establishing improved governance frameworks aimed at reinforcing accountability and resilience. Suggested improvements comprise ethical conduct guidelines, conflict-of-interest policies, and fiscal responsibilities—all standard practices among philanthropic foundations.

Since 2000, Unilever has contributed over $70 million to the Ben & Jerry's Foundation, promoting various social causes. In 2025, the foundation was fully funded. Ben & Jerry’s and TMICC have expressed readiness to support the foundation's initiatives, pending the implementation of the proposed governance changes despite some reluctance from the foundation's trustees as of December 12, 2025.

Commitment to Social Justice

Ben & Jerry’s remains steadfast in its dedication to producing high-quality super-premium ice cream and non-dairy desserts, sourcing ingredients responsibly while addressing social and environmental justice issues. As a certified B-Corporation, it continues to reflect its mission in its economic activities by integrating values into its sourcing practices, ensuring fairness and equity in every facet of its operations.

With its products available in over 35 countries, Ben & Jerry’s leads with a triple bottom line focus that incorporates product quality, fair profit returns, and engagement with pressing global issues. Notably, in 2024, the Ben & Jerry's Foundation distributed $4.5 million to progressive, justice-oriented grassroots organizations across the nation.

For continuous updates on Ben & Jerry's initiatives and their evolving mission, visit benjerry.com.