Utz Brands, Inc., a leading U.S. manufacturer of branded salty snacks, announced that Mitchell (“Mitch”) Arends has been appointed Executive Vice President, Chief Integrated Supply Chain Officer and Cary Devore has been appointed Executive Vice President, Chief Operating and Transformation Officer. These appointments, which will be effective November 27, 2023, will enhance the Company’s execution of both short- and long-term objectives, including supply chain optimization and integrated business planning.
“I believe that these appointments will significantly strengthen the Company’s ability to deliver our strategic priorities, unlock further potential and help drive our short- and long-term growth objectives,” said Howard Friedman, Chief Executive Officer of Utz.
As Chief Integrated Supply Chain Officer, Mr. Arends will oversee all aspects of the supply chain, including procurement, manufacturing, transportation, warehousing, and planning. He will accelerate Utz’s efforts to optimize its supply chain network and capabilities, leveraging the significant progress the Company has made over the last two years in scaling its productivity program, improving its service levels, and implementing improved processes and capabilities. Utz will provide more detail on its supply chain optimization initiatives, and introduce Mr. Arends, at its Investor Day in New York City on December 15, 2023. Mr. Arends will report to Howard Friedman, Utz’s Chief Executive Officer.
“Mitch’s experience and track record in integrated supply chain leadership make him an excellent fit for Utz, especially as we continue our journey to further optimize our supply chain network. He will work closely with our talented existing manufacturing and supply chain leadership team in Shannan Redcay, EVP, Manufacturing, and Chad Whyte, EVP, Supply Chain. Given the significant opportunity ahead of us, Mitch’s leadership and expertise will enhance our ability to execute with excellence at speed,” said Howard Friedman, Chief Executive Officer of Utz.
As Chief Operating and Transformation Officer, Mr. Devore will oversee the execution of the Company’s strategic plan priorities, large-scale transformation initiatives, and scaling key enabling capabilities across the Company. An experienced executive with more than seven years at Utz, he is uniquely positioned to lead the Company’s transformation activities given the complexity and long-term impact to the organization. Given the scope of the Company’s strategic plan, it is important to have someone of Mr. Devore’s experience, knowledge of the Company, and ability to ensure flawless execution.
“Cary is a proven performer and his contributions have been instrumental over the past seven years, including in the Company’s transition from a smaller private to a larger publicly traded company,” Mr. Friedman said. “I am extremely pleased he has accepted this significant role leading our major strategic plan initiatives. Cary’s breadth of knowledge about our company, diversity of experience, and acumen make him the perfect partner to deliver this work stream and elevate total company performance.”
SOURCE : BusinessWire