Kellogg Co has named Gary Pilnick, a 22-year veteran of the company and current chief legal officer, as the designated head of its North America Cereal business, which it plans to spin off next year.
Kellogg said in June it would split into three independent companies, separating its North America cereal arm and plant-based food unit from its high growth snacking business.
A Smooth Spin Off
Pilnick is now tasked with ensuring a smooth spin off of brands such as Frosted Flakes and Froot Loops at a time when rampant inflation threatens to push more Americans toward cheaper store-brand cereals.
A key executive in a number of Kellogg's strategic initiatives over the years, Pilnick spearheaded the acquisition of potato chips maker Pringles from Procter & Gamble Co and the company's expansion into Africa.
Steve Cahillane, Kellogg Company’s chairman and chief executive officer, said that Pilnick's "inspiring leadership style, deep knowledge of the business, and central role in defining the company’s successful strategy make him the natural choice to lead North America Cereal Co."
Other Management Changes
Kellogg also announced Dave McKinstray, who has previously served in multiple executive finance roles, as finance chief of the new cereal company.
It named insiders Sherry Brice-Williamson and Doug VanDeVelde as the new firm's chief supply chain officer and chief growth officer, respectively.
Gary Pilnick, chief executive officer designate of North America Cereal Co, said, "We are excited by its potential as an independent company, and I am confident that the world-class experience and track records of the people joining me on the leadership team will ensure we fulfil that potential.
"With these appointments, we have the foundation in place to ensure the business thrives as we build a new legacy inspired by what W.K. Kellogg created. We are all eager and ready to unlock the potential of what we see as a 116-year-old startup with some of the most powerful consumer brands.”
