HANOVER, PA — Utz Brands reported the appointment of Mitchell Arends to executive VP, chief supply officer. Cary Devore will be upped to executive VP, chief operating and transformation officer.
The appointments will become effective Nov. 27 and will advance the execution of short- and long-term objectives, including supply chain optimization and integrated business planning.
Arends will report to Howard Friedman, CEO of Utz, and oversee all aspects of the supply chain, such as procurement, manufacturing, transportation, warehousing and planning. His efforts are in the hope of optimizing Utz’s supply chain network and capabilities, leveraging the progress of the company over the past years in scaling its productivity program, improving service levels, and improving processes and capabilities. Utz will give more detail on its supply chain optimization initiatives, along with introducing Arends in his new role, at its Investor Day in New York City on Dec. 15.
“Mitch’s experience and track record in integrated supply chain leadership make him an excellent fit for Utz, especially as we continue our journey to further optimize our supply chain network,” Friedman said. “He will work closely with our talented existing manufacturing and supply chain leadership team in Shannan Redcay, executive VP, manufacturing, and Chad Whyte, executive VP, supply chain. Given the significant opportunity ahead of us, Mitch’s leadership and expertise will enhance our ability to execute with excellence at speed.”
Devore will manage the execution of the company’s strategic plan priorities, large-scale transformation initiatives and scaling key enabling capabilities. With over seven years at Utz, he is positioned to lead the transformation activities given the complexity and long-term impact on the organization.
“Cary is a proven performer and his contributions have been instrumental over the past seven years, including in the company’s transition from a smaller private to a larger publicly traded company,” Friedman said. “I am extremely pleased he has accepted this significant role leading our major strategic plan initiatives. Cary’s breadth of knowledge about our company, diversity of experience and acumen make him the perfect partner to deliver this work stream and elevate total company performance.”
