Mr. Holland joined the company in February, 1995 as the company moved from a Founder-led to a professional management structure.
Mr. Cohen said, “Bob arrived just when we needed him to help straighten out our operations, get our new plant up and running, start our international business and launch our new sorbet line. We are very grateful for his contributions.”
Mr. Holland said, “Ben & Jerry’s has great products, great people, and a promising future. However, at this juncture a change appears appropriate. When you couple the marketplace challenges with the predictably tough demands associated with succeeding founders, the need for accelerated succession is clear.”
Mr. Cohen said that a subcommittee of the Board of Directors will immediately begin the search for a new CEO. Bruce Bowman, the Senior Director for Operations who joined the company a year ago from Tom’s Food of Georgia, has been given the additional title and responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer, on an interim basis, and will be responsible for day-to-day management of the company.