House & Home
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Published in House and Home on Wednesday, January 28th 2009 at 16:21 GMT, Last Modified on 2009-01-28 16:21:44 by Market WireSPARKS, Md.--([ BUSINESS WIRE ])--Robert J. Lawless, Chairman of the Board of McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC), has announced that he will retire effective March 25, 2009. He will not stand for re-election to the Board at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders that day. Mr. Lawless retired as Chief Executive Officer in January of 2008 and has continued to serve as non-executive Chairman for the past year. McCormick's Board of Directors has appointed Alan D. Wilson, the Company's President and Chief Executive Officer, to succeed Mr. Lawless as Chairman, in addition to his current duties, effective March 25, 2009.
"I advised the Board of Directors of McCormick & Company that I plan to retire as Chairman, effective with the Annual Meeting. This is consistent with the succession plan at the executive level that the Board and I put in place over the last several years of my career with McCormick, and is also consistent with my own personal wishes," said Mr. Lawless.
"In 1998 when the Board asked me to assume the position of Chairman we faced a number of challenges. Since that time the Company has accomplished a great deal and is well positioned for continued growth. We have a new team of executive leaders who have been developed and promoted from within. I consider our succession planning process at the executive level a key part of my legacy and an essential part of success for any organization in these challenging times.
"Over the next few months I will work closely with the Board and Alan Wilson to make this a seamless transition."
Mr. Lawless was employed by McCormick for over 30 years prior to his retirement as CEO last January. He remained Chairman of the Board of Directors following his retirement and has provided advice and support to Mr. Wilson.
During his 15-year career with McCormick, Mr. Wilson has served as President of several major business units and was Chief Operating Officer prior to being appointed Chief Executive Officer last January.
"Bob has been both a strong mentor and a good friend," commented Mr. Wilson. "I am deeply indebted to Bob for his guidance and leadership."
