Shakeup at Farmer Brothers
Farmers Brothers shook up its leadership in early May when it cut ties with c.e.o. Michael Keown and named Christopher P. Mottern as its interim head effective immediately.
With the move, Keown steps down as c.e.o., president, and also leaves his position as a member of the company’s board of directors. Keown’s exit was “by mutual agreement,” according to a statement issued May 7. The company has begun looking for a permanent c.e.o.
Farmer Brothers, based in Northlake, Texas, is a national coffee roaster, wholesaler and distributor of coffee, tea and culinary products.
“As we position Farmer Brothers for its next phase of growth and development, we have determined that now is the right time for a leadership transition,” board chairman Randy Clark was quoted in the statement. “Chris brings more than 40 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, having served as c.e.o. of Peet’s Coffee & Tea, president of The Heublein Wines Group, and c.e.o. of Capri Sun, Inc. With his deep understanding of our business from his six years on the Board, extensive leadership and industry experience, and background in finance and accounting, Chris is a natural fit to lead Farmer Brothers in an interim capacity while we conduct a thorough and comprehensive search for a new permanent c.e.o. The Board is focused on identifying the right leader to guide the Company forward during this important time in its history and driving sustainable growth and value creation for our shareholders.”
The statement continued: “On behalf of the board and everyone at Farmer Brothers, I want to thank Mike for his commitment and significant contributions to our company since 2012,” Clark said. “Under his leadership, Farmer Brothers has grown through multiple acquisitions, made critical investments into its roasting facilities, successfully relocated its headquarters and rebuilt its workforce in Northlake, and achieved ambitious sustainability goals. We appreciate Mike’s dedication to the company’s mission, and we wish him all the best in the future.”