Russell Stover has a new president and ceo.
Andrew Deister, who has experience as a specialty foods executive, will assume the duties held by acting CEO Andreas Pfluger since Lindt & Sprüngli acquired Russell Stover in 2014. Pfluger will continue to oversee the company’s NAFTA region and will focus on coordinating Lindt’s North American companies (Lindt North America, Ghirardelli Chocolate Co. and Russell Stover Chocolates).
Deister joins Russell Stover after serving as president and ceo for Robert Rothschild Farm, an award-winning premium specialty foods organization. At Russell Stover, Deister’s priorities will focus on continuing to build the Russell Stover brand by leveraging its position as the nation’s leading manufacturer of boxed chocolates and expanding its presence in the marketplace with innovative offerings.
“Having Andrew join our team is the next major step in the evolution of our company,” Pfluger said. “Andrew’s success in growing companies through focused business strategy, innovation and execution brings outstanding leadership to Russell Stover.”
Prior to joining Robert Rothschild Farm Deister had successful leadership roles in marketing, sales and innovation with large global consumer packaged goods organizations including Procter & Gamble, Abbott Nutrition and Evenflo.
Deister, a military veteran, began his career as an engineer and served in the United States Navy’s Nuclear Propulsion Program. He earned his Master of Business Administration from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business. Deister is also a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization. He will relocate to the Kansas City area with his wife, son and two daughters.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to join Russell Stover as we continue our drive towards becoming America’s chocolate of choice” Deister said. “This company has an extraordinary history, but I believe its best days lie ahead, and I look forward to working with the management team and front line employees towards building a new and exciting future for this great company and its iconic American brands.”
