Wells' Dairy, Inc. will now have a new Chief Executive Officer, company spokesman Dave Smetter said Wednesday.
Third generation Wells family member Mike Wells will assume the company's top position effective immediately.
Gary Wells, formerly the corporation's CEO, Doug Wells, its co-president, and Greg Wells, senior vice president of operations, will step down from their current positions and from any day-to-day responsibilities.
"This decision was made with full support of the family," Mike Wells said in a released statement. "It will provide clear focus to critical business decisions and ensuring our organization can move quickly and efficiently to maximize business opportunities and provide clear and consistent communication across the company."
Smetter said employees were first informed of the change in leadership Tuesday.
"Mike is someone who the employees know," he said, "and who's been with the company for 30 years."
In making the announcement, the Wells' family emphasized their commitment to the long-term viability of the company and it's progress toward achieving the goal of becoming a top three national brand in ice cream and novelty treats.
"The change," Smetter added, "will clarify the chain of command, allowing the company to react nimbly in a very competitive marketplace."
Gary, Greg and Doug Wells will continue to support executive leadership on a consultant basis and the Wells family will continue its representation on the company's board of directors, Smetter added.
Founded in 1913, Wells' Dairy is the largest family-owned and managed dairy processor in the United States. Headquartered in Le Mars, it is Plymouth County's largest employer.
