Premier Protein parent company names new CEO
BellRing Brands Inc., parent company of the Premier Protein brand, appointed Michael Axelrod the company’s president and CEO, effective July 29. He will also be appointed to the company’s board of directors. Darcy Davenport, who announced her intention to retire from the Company earlier this year, will serve in a senior advisory capacity to support a seamless leadership transition and provide strategic support.
Axelrod is an accomplished executive with more than 30 years of experience in the consumer packaged goods industry, including serving as CEO of several consumer companies. He has a demonstrated track record of driving profitable growth, leading business transformation and creating long-term shareholder value across both entrepreneurial and large-scale consumer businesses. Throughout his career, he has built strong customer partnerships, accelerated innovation, improved operational performance and built high-performing teams.
He joins BellRing from Snak King, a leading manufacturer of salty snacks, where he served as CEO. He was previously the CEO of Del Real Foods where he oversaw significant revenue growth, national expansion and operational improvements. Earlier in his career, he held senior leadership roles at Passport Food Group, TreeHouse Foods and Kraft Foods. Prior to his operating leadership roles, he began his career at Boston Consulting Group, where he advised consumer and retail clients.
“We conducted an extensive search and determined that Mike is uniquely qualified to lead BellRing. His record of strategic insight, strong customer relationships and operational excellence will be invaluable as we embark on the next chapter of growth,” said Robert V. Vitale, Chairman of the Board of Directors. “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to thank Darcy for her many years of dedicated service to BellRing through a significant period of growth to over $2.3 billion in sales. We are grateful for her leadership, her many contributions to BellRing, and her partnership in ensuring a successful transition.”
“I am honored to be chosen as the next leader of BellRing,” said Mike Axelrod. “Consumer demand for protein remains exceptionally strong. With the #1 ready-to-drink protein brand, deep category expertise and strong retailer relationships, BellRing is well positioned to drive long-term growth through customer focus, innovation and operational rigor. I look forward to partnering with the Board and the team to capitalize on the significant opportunities ahead, further strengthen our market position and deliver long-term value for stakeholders.”
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