#United States #Hershey #Hershey Company #Michael Del Pozzo #Michele Buck

Michele Buck Takes Charge of Hershey's U.S. Confection Business

In a significant leadership change at The Hershey Company, Michele Buck will take on the role of interim head of the U.S. Confection business. This transition follows the announcement that Michael Del Pozzo, who has served as President of U.S. Confection, will be leaving the company after December 12, 2024. Del Pozzo is making his return to PepsiCo, where he spent most of his career prior to joining Hershey.

Michele Buck, who currently holds the positions of President and Chief Executive Officer at Hershey, will take on the responsibility of leading the U.S. Confection division during this period of transition. Buck plans to work closely with the experienced leadership team within the U.S. Confection sector to steer the business towards its future growth and to fulfill Hershey's vision of becoming the leading snacking powerhouse.

The Hershey Company, which trades on the New York Stock Exchange as HSY, is renowned for its expansive array of snack products, including traditional candies and newer offerings. With more than 20,000 employees, the company reaches global markets with over 90 brand names, generating over $11.2 billion in annual revenues.

This leadership change comes at a pivotal time as Hershey aims to strengthen its market position. Buck’s extensive experience in the industry is seen as a vital asset for navigating this interim period effectively.

Del Pozzo has been credited with leading the U.S. Confection business through a dynamic era of growth and brand innovation. As he moves back to PepsiCo to embark on a new chapter, the company has expressed gratitude for his contributions to Hershey. Michael's departure leaves a legacy of strong performance and strategic initiatives aimed at expanding the confectionary portfolio.

Looking ahead, Michele Buck’s leadership will be key in maintaining momentum and ensuring a seamless transition. The company is in the process of identifying a permanent successor, evaluating both internal talent and potential external candidates to fill this crucial role.

For Buck, the focus during this interim period will not only be on business continuity but also on executing strategic initiatives that align with Hershey's long-term goals. Hershey is committed to delivering high-quality, delicious products while also adhering to its ethical and sustainable business practices that have been part of its core values for over 130 years.

Buck’s leadership style is expected to foster collaboration among the U.S. Confection team, driving progress in the development of new snacks and consolidating the existing brand portfolio. The team is poised to explore innovative approaches to meet evolving consumer tastes and preferences, particularly in a market that is increasingly competitive.

As Hershey prepares for this transition, stakeholders can expect updates on their initiatives and strategies designed to enhance brand performance and market share. For those interested in learning more about Hershey’s vision and its broad array of products, a visit to their website is encouraged.

In summary, Michele Buck is stepping up to lead the U.S. Confection business during a critical time for Hershey. With the company focusing on growth and innovation, the leadership change is seen as a positive development for all parties involved. Hershey's commitment remains to deliver sweetness to consumers while fostering a strong, ethical corporate culture.

About The Hershey Company

The Hershey Company is a leading snacks company famous for its iconic brands and commitment to creating moments of goodness. Through a dedication to ethical business practices and sustainability, Hershey continues to focus on contributing positively to its workforce and communities.