BATTLE CREEK, Mich. -- Kellogg Co.'s board of directors has elected John A. Bryant, the company's president and chief executive officer, as chairman, effective July 1, 2014. Current chairman James M. Jenness will remain on the board as a nonexecutive director.
Bryant has been a member of the company's board since July 2010. He has been president and CEO since January 2011.
Bryant joined Kellogg in 1998. Prior to becoming CEO, he held a variety of key senior leadership roles including chief financial officer, president of Kellogg North America, president of Kellogg International and chief operating officer.
"John has a deep understanding of all aspects of Kellogg Co.'s business and a clear vision of how we will deliver on our strategy and grow our business around the world," said Jenness. "His election to chairman demonstrates the board's confidence in his leadership."
Bryant succeeds Jenness, who has worked with and for Kellogg for 40 years. He has been a board member since 2000. Jenness also served as the company's CEO from Feb. 2005 until Dec. 31, 2006. Prior to joining Kellogg, Jenness was co-founder and CEO of Integrated Merchandising Systems LLC, and served as vice chairman and COO of Leo Burnett Co.
"Everyone who encounters Jim immediately understands his deep commitment to Kellogg and his passion for our brands," Bryant said. "He has been a trusted mentor whose sound advice I value and respect. His guidance has been, and will continue to be, invaluable to me and Kellogg. We are grateful for his leadership and look forward to working with him for many years to come."
With 2013 sales of $14.8 billion and more than 1,600 foods, Battle Creek, Mich.-based Kellogg is the world's leading cereal company; second-largest producer of cookies, crackers and savory snacks; and a leading North American frozen foods company. Its brands include Kellogg's, Keebler, Special K, Pringles, Frosted Flakes, Pop-Tarts, Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies, Kashi, Cheez-It, Eggo, Mini-Wheats and more.
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