HERSHEY, Pa. — The Hershey Co. here said this week it has named John P. Bilbrey president and chief executive officer of the company, effective immediately.
The move had been widely expected after Bilbrey had been named interim CEO in May upon the resignation of David West, who left to become the CEO of Del Monte. "J.P. has the experience, deep industry knowledge and the right skills to lead Hershey's growth as it continues to evolve into a global company," said James E. Nevels, chairman of the confections company.
Bilbrey has more than 30 years of global consumer packaged goods experience. He had been named chief operating officer of The Hershey Co. in November of last year, with responsibility for day-to-day global operations and commercial activities, leading the company's supply chain as well as geographic regions, including the U.S., the Americas and Asia. From December 2007 to November 2010, he was senior vice president of the company, and president of the Hershey North America division.
Bilbrey joined Hershey in 2003 as senior vice president, and president of Hershey International. Before joining Hershey, Bilbrey held executive positions at Mission Foods and Danone Waters of North America.
