ConAgra CEO to Step Down

Gary M. Rodkin, CEO of ConAgra Foods, Inc., plans to retire from his post in May 2015, the company said today. His successor has not yet been named.

Having joined ConAgra in 2005, Rodkin previously served as chairman and CEO of PepsiCo Beverages and Foods North America following the company's acquisition of Tropicana in 1998; he was Tropicana's president since 1995. Prior to that, Rodkin held marketing and management positions with General Mills, including president of the Yoplait yogurt division.

Steven Goldstone, chairman of ConAgra, noted that Rodkin's leadership helped transform ConAgra from "a holding company into one unified company, with a well-balanced portfolio of Consumer, Commercial and Private Brand businesses, and strong operating capabilities."

"I have deep conviction that we are on the right path to deliver sustainable, profitable growth due to our significantly improved operational capabilities and our differentiated portfolio that is right for today’s value-oriented consumers," Rodkin added. "I will continue to lead our team with focus and enthusiasm until my successor is on board, and I look forward to helping with the transition process.”

Omaha, Neb.-based ConAgra Foods, Inc. is one of North America’s largest packaged food companies, manufacturing such brands as Banquet, Chef Boyardee, Egg Beaters, Healthy Choice, Hunt’s, and Snack Pack, among others.