Whole Foods’ Besancon Retires

AUSTIN, Texas — Whole Foods Market here said Michael Besancon, senior global vice president of purchasing, distribution and communications, will retire from the company.

The date of his retirement was not released. His position will not be filled, a spokeswoman for Whole Foods told SN.

Besancon (right) had spent 17 years at Whole Foods in several positions, including regional vice president of purchasing, regional president of the Southern Pacific region and regional president of the Mid-Atlantic region. Before joining Whole Foods in 1994, Besancon was co-owner of Follow Your Heart, a natural grocery store in Los Angeles, and was vice president at Nature’s Best Distributors.

“Having worked in our line of business from soup to nuts, Michael is absolutely one of the most knowledgeable natural and organic foods pioneers,” said Walter Robb, co-chief executive officer, Whole Foods Market. “He has been an outstanding leader at Whole Foods Market, and has earned well-deserved respect throughout our company and the industry. We will truly miss his wisdom and compassion.”

Besancon serves on the board of trustees of the Earth University Foundation. He plans to pursue nonprofit work, business and consulting projects, and speaking opportunities, Whole Foods said.