Utz Brands names Howard Friedman as next CEO

Howard Friedman

Utz Brands, a US manufacturer of salty snacks, has named Howard Friedman as its next CEO, succeeding Dylan Lissette who will become executive chairman of the board.

Friedman, currently COO of Post Holdings, will assume the role when Lissette takes up the position of chairman on 15 December. 

This leadership transition was initially contemplated at the time of the merger between Collier Creek Holdings and Utz in 2020. The search for Utz Brands’ next CEO included consideration of both internal and external candidates, leading to the identification of Friedman as an ideal successor to Lissette, with the right CPG experience to lead the business.

Joining the company over 20 years ago and serving as CEO since 2013, Utz says that Lissette has helped it evolve from a regional snack food brand to the “third largest branded salty snack platform in the US”.

Dylan Lissette

Soon-to-be executive chairman, Lissette, said: “I have had the honour and privilege to work for and to help lead this great company for nearly three decades. Our track record of success has been incredible, and I am truly excited to transition into the role of executive chairman and welcome Howard to our team.”

Friedman commented: “I am honoured to join Utz as CEO at this important time, and I see enormous potential to continue Utz’s exciting journey. I am eager to start this new chapter and work with Dylan, the Utz leadership team and the board to drive value, expand the company’s reach and deliver growth as we produce world-class product innovation and the flagship snacks consumers have connected with for more than a century.”