DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. -- Sara Lee Corp. said Monday that chairman and chief executive officer Brenda Barnes, who has been on a temporary medical leave of absence, is recovering from a stroke. "I know there has been a lot of speculation on my condition, so I want to take the opportunity to provide some details," said Barnes. "I suffered a stroke a few weeks ago, and I am now in the process of recuperating."
The company intends to provide an update on Barnes' condition and her future plans by its end-of-year earnings call on August 12.
On May 14, Sara Lee's board of [image-nocss] directors named Marcel Smits, executive vice president and chief financial officer, as interim CEO, and James S. Crown, lead independent director, assumed the role of chairman. The company also formed an Office of the Chairman comprised of Crown, Smits and Christopher John (CJ) Fraleigh, CEO of North American Retail & Foodservice.
"I'm pleased to see how effectively our interim team is performing in executing our ongoing strategy and moving the company forward during my absence," said Barnes. "I'm fully confident in this team and grateful for their expertise and leadership during this time, and also want to thank everyone for their thoughts and support during my absence. It's truly appreciated."
Said Crown: "We're pleased to know that Brenda is on the mend, and we wish her a speedy recovery. On behalf of the entire Board of directors, I'd like to thank the dedicated senior leaders at Sara Lee who continue to do an excellent job in Brenda's absence."
Downers Grove, Ill.-based Sara Lee is a major food, beverage, household and body care company, offering brands including Ambi Pur, Ball Park, Douwe Egberts, Hillshire Farm, Jimmy Dean, Kiwi, Sanex, Sara Lee, Senseo and Bimbo. Collectively, these brands generate approximately $13 billion in annual net sales covering nearly 200 countries.
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