People News

PENNSAUKEN, N.J.--J&J Snack Foods Corp. (JJSF) appointed Don McComas as national director of product development. Formerly the national director of product development for Country Home Bakers, a subsidiary of J&J Snack Foods, McComas responsibilities have been expanded to include corporate product development initiatives for all divisions of J&J Snack Foods Corp.

McComas has over 20 years experience in the bakery industry. Prior to joining JJSF, he worked as the corporate chef for Pillsbury Bakeries and Foodservice, and Hazelwood Farms Bakeries. McComas will be working with the JJSF national accounts team utilizing his technical expertise and strong background in product development and formulation to create signature menu items for regional and national chains.

McComas is a Certified Master Baker, qualified by the American Institute of Baking. He was the 129th baker to be given his CMB status. There are only 150 CMB’s in the United States. Qualifications for certification include a minimum of 8 years work experience in the bakery industry, various critical examinations, a dedication to teach and train on the art of baking, and a commitment to continuing education in the bakery field. Don is also a member of the Retail Bakers of America, Research Chef’s Association, and American Culinary Federation.

"Don’s expertise and knowledge in the baking industry will further enhance J&J Snack Foods’ development of new products and business opportunities," said Gerry Shreiber, CEO and president of JJSF.

In other supplier news, the Hershey, Pa.-based Hershey Co. announced that Bryon Klemens, vice president of business development, will lead the company's treasury and investor relations functions.

Klemens, who reports to David J. West, senior vice president and CEO, will continue to have responsibility for identifying merger and acquisition opportunities. Klemens and his team will assume responsibility for investor relations in early 2006 upon the retirement of Jim Edris, vice president of investor relations.

"Bryon has an excellent knowledge of our business and strategy, coupled with experience in our selling organization," West said. "He will continue to articulate our value-enhancing strategy to shareholders as we build on our strong relationships with the investment community. In addition, we have transitioned the treasury area into Bryon's group to allow Hershey to better leverage relationships with commercial and investment banks."

Edris joined Hershey in 1976 as manager, of public information. He was named manager of financial information in 1980 and director of investor relations in 1986.

Filterfresh Coffee Service Inc., based in Westwood, Massachusetts, a subsidiary of Van Houtte Inc., announced Roger Cohen, president since 2002, will retire at the close of the company's fiscal year in March 2006. David C. Larimer will join the company in November 2005 as executive vice president and transition to president upon Cohen's departure. Cohen will continue to remain active with the company as a member of its Board of Directors.

Larimer brings to Filterfresh 22 years of retail experience with a proven track record in sales, marketing, operations, business development and franchise. He has achieved results in several environments, ranging from start-up ventures to mature businesses and turnaround situations. He has held positions of increasing responsibility with major corporations such as Mobil Oil and Priceline.com, as well as with several start-ups. Larimer earned a B.A. in economics from the University of California at Los Angeles
X
This ad will auto-close in 10 seconds