Paul Lustig, who was named to his post in July, will be replaced by David Mackay, president of Kellogg USA. Mr. Mackay will manage day-to-day operations for the division for a few months until a permanent replacement can be named, the company said.
Shift in strategy
The departure of Mr. Lustig, former head of Sara Lee Corp.'s global apparel unit, is a result of a change in strategic direction for the division, comprised mainly of Keebler brands. Kellogg acquired Keebler in March 2001.
According to a prepared statement by Kellogg Chairman and CEO Carlos Gutierrez, the strategy shift changed Mr. Lustig's position from one with a broader, strategic approach to the business to an execution-focused role that looked at sustainable, organic growth.
The parting was a mutual decision, Mr. Gutierrez said.
Sales in the snacks division fell 4% during Kellogg's fourth quarter, and while Mr. Gutierrez noted that sales growth in January was "solid" and plans are in place to launch new products and other brand-building initiatives, analysts will be watching closely, especially in light of stiff competition from Kraft Foods' Nabisco unit.
