PLYMOUTH, Wis., June 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Sargento, the renowned Wisconsin-based cheese leader, has unveiled significant leadership changes on the heels of two pivotal retirements. Michael Pellegrino, the newly appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO), will take over following the retirements of Mike McEvoy, Executive Vice President (EVP) of Operations, and Kristi Jankowski, EVP of Innovation. This transition marks a new chapter in Sargento’s storied history, underscoring the company’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence.
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Mike McEvoy, with over three decades of dedicated service, has played a transformative role at Sargento. Under his leadership, the company experienced numerous operational improvements and expansions. McEvoy’s strategic foresight and unwavering dedication fostered a robust operational framework that propelled Sargento to new heights in the cheese industry. His departure signifies the end of an era, but his influence will undoubtedly resonate within the company for years to come.
Kristi Jankowski’s tenure at Sargento is equally illustrious. As the EVP of Innovation, Jankowski spearheaded groundbreaking product developments that cemented Sargento’s reputation as a trailblazer in cheese innovation. Her visionary approach and ability to anticipate market trends ensured that Sargento consistently stayed ahead of the competition. With a career marked by numerous accolades and first-to-market products, Jankowski’s retirement is a significant milestone for the company.
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Michael Pellegrino, who will step into the role of COO, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to maintain Sargento’s competitive edge and drive future growth. Pellegrino has been with Sargento for several years, holding various senior positions that showcase his versatility and leadership acumen. His comprehensive understanding of the company’s operations and market dynamics positions him perfectly to steer Sargento through this transitional phase.
The announcement of these leadership changes comes at a critical time for Sargento. The cheese industry is experiencing rapid evolution, driven by changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and increased competition. Amid these dynamic conditions, Sargento aims to leverage Pellegrino’s expertise to innovate and enhance its operational efficiencies. His leadership will be instrumental in navigating the complexities of the modern cheese market.
Sargento’s legacy as a family-owned business is deeply intertwined with a commitment to quality, innovation, and community. The third-generation family ownership continues to honor these core values while adapting to contemporary market challenges. The retirement of seasoned executives like McEvoy and Jankowski, coupled with Pellegrino’s ascension, illustrates the company’s enduring dedication to nurturing talent and fostering growth from within.
In reflecting on the contributions of McEvoy and Jankowski, Sargento’s CEO, Louie Gentine, expressed heartfelt appreciation for their years of service and indispensable impact. ‘Mike and Kristi have been pillars of strength, driving our operational and innovative advancements. Their leadership has left an indelible mark on our company’s trajectory,’ Gentine stated. ‘We are excited for Michael Pellegrino to take the reins as COO. His vision and expertise will guide us into the next chapter of our journey.’
As Sargento navigates this leadership transition, the focus remains on delivering exceptional quality products to its customers. The company is poised to continue its tradition of excellence, leveraging new leadership to explore fresh opportunities in the cheese market. With Pellegrino at the helm of operations, supported by a committed executive team, Sargento is well-positioned to both honor its rich heritage and embrace future innovations.
In conclusion, Sargento’s leadership changes signify a poignant yet promising period for the company. The retirement of revered executives Mike McEvoy and Kristi Jankowski spearheaded the promotion of Michael Pellegrino to COO. This strategic shift ensures that Sargento will continue to thrive in an ever-changing market, upholding its legacy while forging new paths in the cheese industry. As the company looks to the future, the steadfast commitment to quality, innovation, and community will remain at the heart of its endeavors.
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