Last updated on September 16th, 2024
The Hershey Co. has appointed Michael Del Pozzo as president of U.S. confection, effective Sept. 16, where he will lead Hershey’s next phase of U.S. growth with a portfolio of brands such as Hershey’s, Reese’s and Jolly Rancher.
“I am thrilled to join Hershey at such an exciting time for the company,” Del Pozzo said.
“I am inspired by the company’s history, culture and talent. Its brands hold a unique place in the market and in the hearts of consumers. I look forward to working with Michele and the amazing team at Hershey to build on this strong foundation and help lead the U.S. confection business through its next phase of growth and innovation.”
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With a career spanning 23 years at PepsiCo, Del Pozzo brings experience in leading growth and transformation for consumer brands such as Gatorade, Propel, Muscle Milk and Evolve. In his recent role as president and general manager of Gatorade, Del Pozzo oversaw a $10 billion business, transforming the sports drinks company into a portfolio of sports and fitness brands.
Prior to Gatorade, he led the sales and commercial functions for Frito Lay North America as chief customer officer and held multiple other leadership roles across PepsiCo.
Del Pozzo will join Hershey’s executive committee and work with its other two business unit leaders – Kristen Riggs, president of salty snacks, and Rohit Grover, president of international – to help Hershey meet the needs of its customers.
Del Pozzo is succeeding Charles Raup, who is retiring from Hershey after 15 years to pursue other executive opportunities.
“Mike’s deep consumer insights, his customer relationships and his track record of delivering results and driving strategic change position him as the ideal leader to guide our U.S. Confection business through its next chapter. He will be instrumental in building on our strengths and advancing our ‘Leading Snacking Powerhouse’ vision,” said Michele Buck, The Hershey Co. chairman and CEO. “I want to thank Chuck for his many valuable contributions during his long tenure at Hershey. We wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”
