SunOpta, a U.S.-based global pioneer in sustainable, plant-based foods and beverages, announced the planned retirement of its current CEO and director, Joseph D. Ennen, on December 6, 2023. Ennen, who led the company for five years, will be succeeded by Brian W. Kocher, effective January 2, 2024. Kocher, who will also join the board of directors, has extensive experience in the food industry, having served as the CEO of Calavo Growers Inc., Castellini Group of Companies, and interim CEO of Chiquita.
The appointment of Kocher as the new CEO of SunOpta is expected to have a positive impact on the direction of the company, as he brings a strong track record of driving growth and productivity improvements in complex, multi-national organizations. Kocher’s expertise in expanding margins and driving operational efficiency will be valuable for SunOpta, which has undergone a complete portfolio transformation and strengthened its balance sheet under Ennen’s leadership. Kocher will also share the company’s values and commitment to furthering its purpose of fueling the future of sustainable, plant-based foods and beverages. SunOpta reaffirmed its outlook for Q4 2023 and 2024, reflecting its confidence in the future.
Image Credit: SunOpta
