The Hershey Company today announced the appointment of Michael Del Pozzo as president, U.S. Confection, effective September 16. In this role, Del Pozzo will lead Hershey's next phase of U.S. growth with a portfolio of brands including Hershey's, Reese's, and Jolly Rancher.

With a career spanning 23 years at PepsiCo, Del Pozzo brings a wealth of experience in leading growth and transformation for some of the world's most recognizable consumer brands such as Gatorade, Propel, Muscle Milk, and Evolve. In his recent role as president and general manager of Gatorade, Del Pozzo oversaw a $10 billion business, transforming the traditional sports drinks company into a portfolio of sports and fitness brands. Prior to Gatorade, he led the sales and commercial functions for Frito Lay North America as chief customer officer and held multiple other leadership roles across PepsiCo.

Del Pozzo will join Hershey's executive committee and work closely with its other two business unit leaders—Kristen Riggs, president, salty snacks, and Rohit Grover, president, international—to advance Hershey's strategic ambitions and meet the needs of consumers and customers. Del Pozzo is succeeding Charles Raup, who is retiring from Hershey after 15 years to pursue other executive opportunities.

"Mike's deep consumer insights, his customer relationships, and his track record of delivering results and driving strategic change position him as the ideal leader to guide our U.S. Confection business through its next chapter. He will be instrumental in building on our strengths and advancing our Leading Snacking Powerhouse vision," says Michele Buck, The Hershey Company chairman and chief executive officer. "I want to thank Chuck for his many valuable contributions during his long tenure at Hershey. We wish him the very best in his future endeavors."

"I am thrilled to join Hershey at such an exciting time for the company," says Del Pozzo. "I am inspired by the company's history, culture, and talent. Its brands hold a unique place in the market and in the hearts of consumers. I look forward to working with Michele and the amazing team at Hershey to build on this strong foundation and help lead the U.S. Confection business through its next phase of growth and innovation."

The Hershey Company is on the current Candy Industry “Global Top 100 Candy Companies” list. Click here to view the current “Global Top 100” rankings.