CAMDEN, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–July 19, 2007–Campbell Soup Company (NYSE:CPB) today announced the appointment of John Sechi as President, Europe. Sechi, 50, will be responsible for Campbell’s portfolio of brands across the region and the creation of a long-term sustainable growth strategy for the company’s European business.
Sechi will be based in Campbell’s European headquarters in Puurs, Belgium. He will report to Larry McWilliams, President – Campbell International.
Sechi has more than 25 years of experience in the consumer goods industry. He joins Campbell from Globalpraxis Group, a management consulting firm, where he served as chairman and senior partner. Prior to that, he spent 16 years with The Coca-Cola Company, where he held various senior general management roles in Europe, including president and division manager of the company’s German and Central Mediterranean business units where he was responsible for a $3.5 billion business.
Larry McWilliams, President, Campbell International, said, “John has an outstanding track record in delivering strong results in the consumer goods industry. His considerable expertise will complement our strong European and international management team.”
Sechi said, “Campbell is an iconic company with a strong portfolio of on-trend brands in Europe and terrific potential for growth in the region.”
Campbell’s portfolio of brands in Europe includes “Liebig” and “Royco” in France, “Devos Lemmens” and “Royco” in Belgium, “Erasco” in Germany, “Bla Band” in Sweden and Finland, and Campbell branded products across the region.
Originally from Canada, Sechi holds a business management degree from Ryerson University, Toronto.
Sechi succeeds Jacques Van den Wouwer who has held the role on an interim basis for the past 12 months and who plans to resume his retirement.
About Campbell Soup Company
Campbell Soup Company is a global manufacturer and marketer of high quality foods and simple meals, including soup, baked snacks, vegetable-based beverages, and premium chocolate products, with annual revenues in excess of $7.3 billion. Founded in 1869, the company has a portfolio of market-leading brands, including “Campbell’s,” “Pepperidge Farm,” “Arnott’s,” “V8,” and “Godiva.” For more information on the company, visit Campbell’s website at www.campbellsoupcompany.com.
CONTACT: Campbell Soup Company Anthony Sanzio (Media) 856-968-4390 or Leonard F. Griehs (Analysts) 856-342-6428 SOURCE: Campbell Soup Company