Kevin Hourican.
Foodservice distribution company Sysco has announced that Tom Bené will step down as chief executive officer, effective 31 January 2020.
The board of directors has elected Kevin Hourican as the company’s new president and CEO. Hourican most recently served as executive vice president of CVS Health and president of CVS Pharmacy.
While Sysco’s performance has improved steadily in the last few years, the company’s board said it believes that the senior leadership changes will enable the business to “accelerate performance, fully capitalise on its scale advantages and drive meaningful operating improvements”.
The board believes Hourican’s knowledge across capabilities such as sales, supply chain, logistics, operations and digital technologies will “unlock meaningful value for customers and other key stakeholders”.
Bené will stay on with Sysco as an executive advisor until 1 March 2020, to be available to assist with a smooth transition of leadership.
The board has elected lead independent director Ed Shirley as executive chair, replacing Tom Bené.
“As part of a deliberate and thoughtful process to ensure Sysco is best positioned for its next phase of development, we are pleased to announce Kevin Hourican as the company’s new president and CEO,” said Larry Glasscock, chairman of the governance and nominating committee.
“The board believes Kevin’s leadership and skillset align strongly with Sysco’s strategic priorities in this next phase of accelerated growth. Moreover, Ed’s familiarity with the company and deep experience over decades running highly successful consumer businesses will ensure a smooth leadership transition.”
Hourican said: “I am thrilled to join the Sysco team. Sysco has an exceptional business model and significant headroom for profitable growth.
“I look forward to working with Ed, the board and the talented global team to continue the company’s success and identify new opportunities to enhance our market leadership and long-term growth prospects.”
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