Tupperware Brands Corporation announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Christopher D. O’Leary, an independent director of Tupperware, as interim chief executive officer, effective immediately.
This appointment follows Tricia Stitzel’s decision to step down as chairman and CEO of Tupperware, and as a director of the company. Susan M. Cameron, lead director of the Board, was named non-executive chairman. Tupperware’s Board has commenced a search for a permanent CEO, and has engaged Heidrick & Struggles, a leading executive search firm, to identify and evaluate qualified candidates.
“Chris has been an incisive and thoughtful contributor to the Board, and we are grateful that he has agreed to step into this role at an important time in Tupperware’s transformation,” said Cameron. “With more than 37 years of operational and leadership experience at global consumer product companies, we are confident Chris has the right depth of experience, proven track record and sense of urgency to be an impactful interim CEO as we continue to work to improve the trajectory of our business.”
O’Leary has served as an independent director of the Tupperware Board since January 2019. He is the former executive vice president and chief operating officer, International, for General Mills, Inc. He previously spent 16 years at PepsiCo, Inc., where he held numerous roles, culminating in serving as chief executive officer and president of Hostess, Frito-Lay, Inc.
“I approach this interim role with a true sense of purpose,” said O’Leary. “I recognize that this is a crucial time for the company and its ongoing transformation efforts and am committed to working closely with the Board and strong management team to create a more efficient and profitable Tupperware.”
Cameron thanked Stitzel for her contributions to Tupperware as CEO, including her passion and drive in developing and launching the global growth strategy to transform the business through digital change and consumer focus, her successful efforts to recruit experienced global leaders and her strong commitment to empowering women through economic opportunities.
“It has been an honor to lead a company known around the world for helping women gain the confidence they need to enrich their lives,” said Stitzel. “I have been fortunate to be part of the Tupperware community for the past 22 years, and am confident that Tupperware will be a beloved brand for many years to come.”
